Movie Tours in Honolulu

Honolulu may be the capital of Hawaii, but it’s also one of Hollywood’s favorite island backdrops. From action-packed TV dramas to romantic films and historical epics, this coastal city has appeared on screens more times than most realize. Palm-lined beaches, dramatic cliffs, and cultural landmarks make it a flexible - and breathtaking - film location.

What makes Honolulu so cinematic? It offers a wide range of visuals in a compact area. You can shoot a war scene one minute and a paradise love story the next, all within driving distance. Whether you're standing where iconic characters once walked or gazing out over Pearl Harbor like in a blockbuster film, the city offers more than scenery - it offers stories.

Famous Movies & Series Filmed in Honolulu

• Hawaii Five-0 – The reboot of this iconic police drama showcases Honolulu from Diamond Head to downtown high-rises.
• Lost – While much of the series was shot in Oahu’s jungle, many of the urban flashbacks were filmed right in Honolulu.
• Pearl Harbor (2001) – Historic locations like Battleship Row and Ford Island were used to recreate one of the most pivotal moments in American history.
• 50 First Dates (2004) – Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore’s tropical romance played out across several Honolulu locations, including the Sea Life Park and roadways with ocean views.
• Blue Crush (2002) – Surf culture and high-stakes competition meet at Honolulu’s beaches and waves.

Why Take a Movie Tour in Honolulu?

Because it adds a whole new lens to your Hawaiian experience. You’re not just sunbathing - you’re standing where scenes were shot, hearing how a bustling city transformed into a film set. Local guides often have ties to the productions themselves, offering personal anecdotes, trivia, and behind-the-scenes moments that give depth to every stop.

Plus, Honolulu is rich in real-life history and culture. A good tour blends cinematic highlights with insight into the island’s identity - something no studio backlot could ever offer.

Types of Tours Available

Honolulu offers both private and group tours - by van, bike, or even catamaran. Some mix movie spots with historical landmarks, while others focus specifically on pop culture highlights. You might stop at the Iolani Palace (used in Hawaii Five-0), pass by the University of Hawaii (seen in multiple films), or view Waikiki from the perspective of a movie camera.

When to Visit

Hawaii’s weather is famously consistent, but spring and early fall tend to offer fewer crowds and slightly cooler days - ideal for walking or biking tours. Weekday tours often mean less city traffic and more time to enjoy the locations.

Travel Tips

Bring water, sun protection, and a camera. Many tours include short walking sections, so comfortable shoes help. Ask your guide about productions currently filming - Honolulu is still a hot location for movies and TV, and you might catch a crew in action.

From blockbuster films to beloved series, Honolulu has shared its beauty with the world through countless lenses. A movie tour here is more than sightseeing - it’s a deep dive into how real places become unforgettable stories.