Best Movies Set in Hawaii

Every state is known for something. As you work your way through the list, don't miss the best movies set in Hawaii.

Hawaii is a state in the Western United States, located in the Pacific Ocean about 2,000 miles from the U.S. mainland. It is the only U.S. state outside North America, the only state that is an archipelago, and the only state geographically located within the tropics.

In this post:

About Movies Set in Hawaii

Movies set in Hawaii often celebrate the allure of paradise and escapism, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes and the desire for a tropical getaway.

They also delve into the importance of culture and ‘ohana (family), often weaving in love stories amidst the backdrop of sun, surf, and sand.

Hawaii's rich history and complex social issues sometimes make their way into the narrative, adding depth to the tropical paradise image.

Best Movies Set in Hawaii

Hawaii

Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
Julie Andrews, Max von Sydow, Richard Harris (Actors)

Hawaii

Year: 1966

They came to bring God but instead brought disease and destruction.

The Rev. Abner Hale (Von Sydow) and his gentle wife Jerusha (Andrews) attempt to convert early 19th-century Hawaiian natives to Christianity but find themselves ill-equipped to endure the unexpected tribulations of paradise.

Surging with the excitement of windstorms, firestorms, shark attacks and magnificent island scenery, Hawaii shines as passionately as the island paradise itself.

Soul Surfer

Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
AnnaSophia Robb, Massi Furlan, Carlotta Montanari (Actors)

Soul Surfer

Year: 2011

RELATED: Best Movies Set in Mississippi

Soul Surfer is the inspiring true story of teen surfer Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm in a shark attack and courageously overcame all odds to become a champion again, through her sheer determination and unwavering faith.

The film features an all-star cast, including AnnaSophia Robb and Helen Hunt, with Carrie Underwood in her film debut, and Dennis Quaid.

Jurassic Park

Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum (Actors)

Jurassic Park

Year: 1993

In Steven Spielberg's massive blockbuster, paleontologists Alan Grant and Ellie Sattler and mathematician Ian Malcolm are among a select group chosen to tour an island theme park populated by dinosaurs created from prehistoric DNA.

While the park's mastermind, billionaire John Hammond, assures everyone that the facility is safe, they find out otherwise when various ferocious predators break free and go on the hunt.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth (Actors)

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Year: 2013

After arriving safely home from their unprecedented victory in the 74th Annual Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark discover that they must do a quick turnaround and begin a Victor's Tour.

As she and Peeta travel throughout the districts, Katniss senses a rebellion stirring. However, President Snow proves that he is still very much in control when word comes of a cruel change in the rules for the upcoming 75th Hunger Games.

50 First Dates

Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
Adam Sandler, Sean Astin, Rob Schneider (Actors)

50 First Dates

Year: 2004

RELATED: Best Movies Set in Utah

A Hawaiian island playboy has to use his imagination to win over the girl of his dreams when he discovers she has no short-term memory. Every night he is erased from her memory so he has to make her fall in love with him all over again the next day and the next and the next!

Questions to Ask After Watching Movies Set in Hawaii

1. What did you learn about Hawaiian culture, history, or the local way of life from this movie?

2. How did the Hawaiian setting influence the characters or plot in the story? Can you give specific examples?

3. Did the movie make you more interested in visiting Hawaii or learning more about the islands? Why or why not?

Now that you've completed the list of best books set in this state, why not check out some others? Here are the Best Movies Set in All 50 States.

DOWNLOAD AND PRINT MOVIES SET IN ALL 50 STATES

Click here to download this printable. It has a list of movies in all 50 states including the Best Movies Set in Hawaii.

If you enjoyed this list of movies, I have a monthly membership for parents and educators that want to teach or supplement lessons with shows and movies.

“I absolutely love sharing movies with my kids as a way to teach them valuable lessons. It's like this awesome bonding experience where we all snuggle up on the couch with some popcorn, and I get to see their little faces light up with curiosity. Whether it's a classic with timeless morals or a new animated flick with hidden gems of wisdom, it's a fantastic way to impart important life lessons in a fun and engaging way. Plus, the post-movie discussions are priceless – hearing their take on the characters and the story adds a whole new dimension to our family time.” –a Homeschooling parent

RELATED: Best Movies Set in Oregon

With Homeschooling with Shows and Movies membership, you will get resources every month, including:

List of This Month’s Suggested Themes
List of Monthly Observances
List Of Movies for Unit Study
Unit Study Resource
Seasonal Activities (minimum of three)
(BONUSES) Resources for you, the teacher

These resources are worth it if you'd like to easily incorporate shows and movies into your homeschooling.

Grab your membership here.

Related Posts:

Further Reading About the State:

Author
Recent Posts

Maxanne

Anne is a recent college grad who majored in Business Administration and Marketing Management. She is a hopeless romantic who makes sure our content stays up-to-date.