Most Popular Movies Filmed on the Nāpali Coast
Have you ever admired the clear blue waters and picturesque scenery on Kauaʻi and thought, this looks like it’s straight out of the movies? Chances are, you’re right. Whether it’s an aerial view of Kauaʻi’s sprawling coastline or snapshots of agile dinosaurs traipsing through the jungle, Kauaʻi’s landscapes are iconic. Anyone who has seen the Nāpali Coast in person can attest that it is a surreal experience. It feels almost impossible to comprehend the level of natural beauty in front of you, so it’s no wonder the dramatic coastline and waterfall-streaked mountains of the Nāpali have been featured in so many films.
South Pacific (1958)
The OG of romantic destination films–South Pacific–was filmed here on Kauaʻi. Makana Mountain, also known as Bali Hai, marks the beginning of the 17-mile stretch of the Nāpali Coast. The location was made world-famous by the song “Bali Hai” featured in South Pacific, and continues to be a popular stop for visitors to Kauaʻi.
King Kong (1976)
Although Kalalea Mountain or Sleeping Giant is commonly cited with its likeness to the profile of King Kong, it was actually Kalalau Valley along the Nāpali Coast that was featured in the 1976 film. Kalalau was the perfect isolated location to depict “Skull Island,” home to King Kong, on the big screen.
Jurassic Park (1993, 2015)
Over the course of the Jurassic Park series, the Nāpali Coast was prominently featured as the coast of Isla Nublar–a fictional island off the coast of Costa Rica. The tropical paradise-turned-disaster was featured as the location where clones of prehistoric species were created using DNA, and thrived within the confines of a controlled environment. The lush and otherworldly tourist attraction gone wrong, Jurassic Park, was set right here on Kauaʻi with dramatic landscapes serving as convincing backdrops for the recreated prehistoric age.
Six Days Seven Nights (1998) In Six Days Seven Nights starring Harrison Ford and Anne Heche, Kauaʻi was featured as the fictional South Pacific island of Makatea. You may remember the famous cliff jump from the Makawehi Bluff at Shipwreck’s Beach on Kauaʻi’s south side, but the Nāpali was also heavily featured throughout the film. Views from the Nu’alolo Trail and Lolo Vista Point worked perfectly with the narrative of crash landing on a deserted island. After a run-in with some pirates, Ford and Heche were also filmed at the Honopū Arch at Honopū Beach.
Pirates of the Caribbean – On Stranger Tides (2011)
On Jack Sparrow’s quest for the fountain of youth, he lands on Honopū Beach at the base of the Honopū Arch. The remote location along the Nāpali Coast is only accessible by boat (or helicopter in Johnny Depp’s case.) Ironically, it was that location that served as an escape route from pirates in another movie! (See Six Days Seven Nights)
With outdoor “offices” on the Nāpali Coast, we know first-hand how gorgeous and downright unbelievable the coast is. The raw beauty sets the stage for storytelling with or without a camera crew. Join us on board soon to see for yourself!