Jurassic Park, long associated with Hawaii, remains one of the most iconic films of all time, and continues to captivate audiences with its groundbreaking special effects and thrilling story line. As we celebrate the 31st anniversary of its release this summer, the allure of its breathtaking filming locations in Hawaii remains as strong as ever. Journey back as we explore the key sites on Kauai and Oahu that brought this cinematic masterpiece to life.
Jurassic Park Filming Locations on Kauai
One of the most breathtaking film locations on the real island of Kauai is the Na Pali Coast, or in Jurassic Park terms,the fictional Isla Sorna.
National Tropical Botanical Gardens.
Start your Jurassic Park hunt at the NTBG (National Tropical Botanical Gardens) in Poipu, where the beautiful and lush Allerton Garden served as a backdrop for several of the memorable scenes. Visitors can marvel and snap photos at the towering roots of the iconic huge Moreton Bay fig trees there, featured in both Jurassic Park (1993) and Pirates of the Caribbean. NTBG offers various tours, including a 2.5-hour exploration of its “garden rooms” which BOH editors thoroughly enjoyed, filled with exotic plants, unique water features, and sculptures. The cost is $60 for adults and $30 for children up to 12 years old. For a unique experience, consider the sunset tour, another favorite pic of ours, which includes access to the Allerton Beach and Estate.
Jurassic Falls.
No Jurassic Park fan’s trip to Kauai would be complete without a visit to Manawaiopuna Falls, known to many as Jurassic Falls. This stunning waterfall, prominently featured in the film, is accessible only via a private helicopter tour, which in spite of not being the biggest of helicopter fans, BOH editors thoroughly enjoy. It was unforgettable. The experience offers a breathtaking view of the falls and the surrounding valley, creating a “chicken skin” moment for all who visit. The tour lands at the falls, allowing visitors a rare opportunity to explore this iconic location up close. For detailed information, check out our Jurassic Falls review.
Jurassic Park Gate Trail.
For the extremely adventurous, the 12.5 mile Jurassic Park Gate Trail offers a journey to the remnants of the iconic park entrance. Located near Kapaa, this trail may be accessible by a 4-wheel drive vehicle or a 10-mile hike. While the trail itself may be challenging, the small swimming hole at the end provides a refreshing reward. Before embarking on this adventure, be sure to research the hike on All Trails, which reports that the road is closed: “The road leading to this trail head is closed indefinitely, but the trail is open.”
Kipu Kai Beach.
Jurassic Park franchise’s next adventure began with the Bowman family at the beach. The scene was filmed at Kipu Kai, which is a spectacular two-mile stretch of sand also used in “The Descendants.” The beach is best seen via boat tour.
Hoopii Falls.
Near Ho’opi’i Falls on Kauai, you’ll find a filming location used in the original Jurassic Park. This is a 1.8-mile round-trip trail, offering moderate-level hiking from a residential neighborhood.
Limahuli Garden.
Part of same National Tropical Botanical Garden as if found at Poipu, Limahuli Garden was featured in the original Jurassic Park. The current visitor center location was used as the velociraptor paddock, which was the setting for the scene where raptors attack their captors. While you are there, both guided and self-guided tours are offered, but online reservations are strong,y suggested.
Jurassic Park Filming Locations on Oahu.
Kualoa Ranch.
Kualoa Ranch on Oahu’s north shore is a treasure trove for Jurassic Park enthusiasts poised in a spectacularly beautiful sitting . Many scenes from Jurassic Park, Jurassic World, and The Fallen Kingdom were filmed here. The 2.5-hour Jurassic Adventure Tour takes visitors through iconic film locations in Kualoa, Hakipuu, and Kaaawa Valleys. This is one we’ve yet to experience, but it’s reported that you’ll experience the excitement of the Indominus Rex paddock, authentic dinosaur cages, and the famous field where the gallimimus were seen flocking. The tour costs $145.95 for adults and $74.95 for children. For more information, visit the Kualoa Ranch website.
Editor Rob, a regular at Kualoa Ranch, even performs weddings at the gyrosphere depot from Jurassic World, adding a personal Beat of Hawaii touch to this extraordinary location. The ranch’s epic beauty and proximity to Honolulu make it, for us, a must-visit Oahu destination.
Halona Beach.
Halona Beach is popular for its scenic beauty, making it an ideal stop when touring the island of Oahu. The picturesque beach, accessible by a step but not long hike has been featured in movies including Jurassic Word: Fallen Kingdom. Other films that used this location include Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and From Here to Eternity.
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Hangar 79.
The reunion scene found at the conclusion of Jurassic World was filmed here, at one of Beat of Hawaii’s favorite places to visit in Honolulu. The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum‘s historic hangar is a great spot to see and feel the events of December 7, 1941. The building’s windows, remain unchanged to this day, with bullet holes from the Pearl Harbor attack clearly visible. There’s tons to see there.
Heeia State Park.
Jurassic Park: Fallen Kingdom featured a scene filmed here. It’s on Windward Oahu in Kaneohe. The 18-acre park offers stunning views of the nearby Koolau Mountains. There’s a self-guided walking tour available.
Other Oahu filming spots.
Both the Honolulu Zoo and the Hawaii Convention Center in Waikiki had a spot in Jurassic World.
Jurassic Park Filming Locations on Maui.
Garden of Eden Arboretum.
This stunning spot was prominently featured in the original Jurassic Park film. Driving the Hana Highway, this is the first location you’ll see during the scientists’ iconic helicopter ride to the island. Here, you can find Jurassic Rock, which is in actuality Keopuka Rock, that also makes a memorable appearance in the arrival scene. Consider hiking the trail to the Keopuka Rock overlook for epic views.
Historical Context of Jurassic Park filming.
The production of Jurassic Park was not without its challenges. Hurricane Iniki struck Kauai on the last day of filming, causing significant damage to the sets. This forced director Steven Spielberg to relocate the final scenes to Oahu. Despite these hurdles, the film’s success and its simply stunning Hawaii backdrops have left an indelible mark on cinematic history.
The late author Michael Crichton, who wrote the novel Jurassic Park, also has a unique connection to Hawaii. His homes in Hanalei Bay are a testament to his love for the islands and the direct inspiration they provided for his work.
Visitor Tips and Practical Information for the Jurassic Park inclined.
When planning your Jurassic Park adventure in Hawaii, keep the following tips in mind:
Book Tours in Advance: Popular tours, especially the helicopter rides to Jurassic Falls, can fill up quickly. Make your reservations early to secure a spot.
Check for updates: Tour availability and prices can change. In fact they did while we were drafting this article. Visit the official websites directly for the most current information.
Prepare for the elements: Hawaii’s weather can be unpredictable. Bring appropriate clothing, hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water, and most especially if you’re hiking the Jurassic Park Gate Trail.
Combine attractions: Maximize your trip by exploring nearby attractions. For example, combine your visit to the National Tropical Botanical Gardens with a trip to Poipu Beach.
Personal Stories and Testimonials.
Our readers and editors have shared their memorable experiences visiting these Jurassic Park locations. Editor Rob recalls the awe-inspiring moment his helicopter landing at Jurassic Falls: “The helicopter descended into the valley, and the falls came into view – it was like stepping into the movie. The sheer beauty and tranquility of the place are unforgettable.”
Visitors to Kualoa Ranch often highlight the knowledgeable guides and the thrill of seeing real Jurassic Park movie props and locations. One visitor noted, “The tour was fantastic! Seeing the Indominus Rex paddock and standing where the dinosaurs roamed was a dream come true.”
Reliving the magic of Jurassic Park in Hawaii is, to this day, an adventure like no other.
Whether you’re exploring the lush tropical gardens of Kauai or the dramatic and picturesque landscapes of Oahu, these iconic locations offer a glimpse into the cinematic history that has captivated audiences for decades.
Please share your Hawaii Jurassic Park experiences with us in the comments below, and let the adventure continue!
Nice article, but the photo of Kipu Kai Beach is wrong. It is Halona cove.
Fabulous article!!!
Hi Rod.
Thanks! We needed that.
Aloha