What to Watch Guide

Best Movies Set in Hawaii

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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.

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

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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
Soul Surfer
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • AnnaSophia Robb, Massi Furlan, Carlotta Montanari (Actors)
$7.99
Buy on Amazon

Soul Surfer

Year: 2011

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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
Jurassic Park
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum (Actors)
$7.99
Buy on Amazon

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
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth (Actors)
$12.99
Buy on Amazon

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
50 First Dates
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore, Sean Astin (Actors)
$14.99
Buy on Amazon

50 First Dates

Year: 2004

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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.

printable mock-up image of Movies Set in all 50 states

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.

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  • List of This Month’s Suggested Themes
  • List of Monthly Observances
  • List Of Movies for Unit Study
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  • (BONUSES) Resources for you, the teacher

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