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Editor’s note: This article was originally published while Jumanji was filming on Oahu. We’ve kept the location info and refreshed the visitor tips below so it’s more useful for planning.
As it has been for many decades, the Hawaiian Islands are a popular location for Hollywood movies, utilizing the stunning beauty of the islands and the natural landscapes. Many hit films have been filmed here over the years, with favorites including Jurassic Park, Godzilla, The Descendants, and 50 First Dates all using various locations around the islands. With diverse landscapes and the ability for crews to film in various environments without having to travel too far, the attraction of Hawaii as a film site makes producing big budget films much easier.
Gaining much attention over the last few weeks is the sequel to the 1995 hit film, Jumanji, which filmed at multiple locations on Oahu. The follow-up to the board game-inspired flick stars Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, comedian Kevin Hart, Karen Gillan, Jack Black, and Nick Jonas, and creates a new version of the movie that starred the late Robin Williams. The sequel continues the story of a board game come to life, with modern twists and storytelling.
From the lush Kualoa Ranch to the scenic North Shore, film locations on Oahu are seen in many films and television shows, though the island is not always portrayed as Hawaii. For instance, in the premiere episode of the current Hawaii 5-0, the Ko’olau Mountain Range and Kualoa Ranch were used as South Korea, while Jurassic Park depicted Kualoa Ranch as a secluded island where dinosaurs roamed, and LOST used the island as a fictitious island where the survivors of a plane crash washed up.
With miles of lush valley and picture-perfect beaches, it’s no wonder that producers flock to the islands.
As filming locations change from project to project, the same Oahu backdrops tend to appear again and again – especially areas with dramatic mountains, dense greenery, and easy access to roads and services. Filming for Jumanji was spotted around Kualoa Ranch, on the North Shore near Waimea Valley, and at He’eia Kea in Kaneohe.
Tips for Visiting Oahu Movie & TV Filming Locations
- Go early for the best experience – mornings usually mean lighter crowds, easier parking, and better lighting for photos.
- Respect closures and private property – some spots are working ranchland, cultural sites, or environmentally sensitive areas. Stay on marked paths and follow posted rules.
- Plan your route by region – pair Windward Coast stops (like Kaneohe) with Kualoa Ranch, and do North Shore stops (like Waimea Valley area) on the same day to reduce drive time.
- Bring the basics – water, reef-safe sunscreen, and a light rain layer (weather can change fast near the Ko’olau Mountains).
- Consider a guided option for convenience – if you’d rather not worry about timing, parking, or navigation, booking an Oahu sightseeing day can be the easiest way to cover multiple scenic areas.
If you’re planning to explore more of the island while you’re here, browse our Oahu tours and lock in your favorites early – popular activities can book up during peak travel seasons.
FAQ – Oahu Filming Locations
Where was Jumanji filmed on Oahu?
Filming was spotted around Kualoa Ranch, on the North Shore near Waimea Valley, and at He’eia Kea in Kaneohe.
Can you visit the filming locations?
Many Oahu filming backdrops are viewable and visitable, but access varies by location. Always follow posted signs, respect private property, and be mindful of cultural and natural resource protections.
Why does Oahu appear as other countries or fictional places?
Oahu has an unusually diverse mix of scenery in a small area – rainforest-like valleys, rugged mountains, and beaches – so productions can capture very different looks without moving the crew far.
What are some other famous films and shows shot on Oahu?
Oahu has hosted countless projects over the years, including iconic locations used in major films and television series. Areas like the Ko’olau range and Kualoa Ranch are especially well-known filming backdrops.
Looking to add something unforgettable to your trip after your film-location drive? In many cases, our activities sell out weeks in advance – especially the Sea Life Park Luau in Hawaii. You can also book online anytime and take advantage of our low price guarantee.