Disney’s 2025 live-action remake of their animated classic, Lilo and Stitch, brings the beauty of Hawaii to life. While the original was set on the island of Kauai, this version was filmed on Oahu. Honolulu and the island are well equipped for filming, thanks to the breathtaking locations, the studio facilities, and the talented crew available. This is why classics like Lost, Hawaii Five-0, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, and many more movies and TV shows have filmed here.
The production got a bit creative, using locations all across Oahu. The magic of film editing makes everything look really close, even when the locations are an hour apart.
Kualoa Ranch
It feels like a tradition for everyone production in Hawaii to film at Kualoa Ranch at some point, and Lilo and Stitch is no exception. Lilo’s house was built specifically for this movie, and was located on Kualoa Ranch’s property. The house was then taken down after production ended. Special thanks to Reel News Hawaii for this photo of the Pelekai house when it was standing on the Ranch.
Doctor Jumba’s ship can be seeing flying over an area of Kualoa Ranch as well. Moli’i Pond is an ancient fishing pond that has also appeared in productions like Lost and Jurassic World.
Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head
Oahu’s famous Waikiki Beach, with it’s views of Diamond Head, made the perfect location to depict a crowded beach. We also see an aerial view of Diamond Head during the movie. Diamond Head is the crater of a dormant volcano, formed over millions of years and one of the most recognizable natural landmarks on the island.
Hale’iwa
The town of Hale’iwa was used to stand in for Lilo’s village. The town’s quaint shops, restaurants, and art galleries are a contrast to the hustle and bustle of Honolulu.
Germaine’s Luau
Nani is shown working at a luau location named Jerry’s Luau. These scenes were filmed at Germaine’s Luau, a well known dinner and show location visited by tourists.
Makaha Beach
Scenes where Lilo and Nani go surfing with Stitch were filmed at Makaha Beach. This leeward side beach is a well known surf location favoured for it’s lack of crowds and tourists.
Kauhala Beach
The final climactic scenes where Stitch crashed Jumba’s ship were filmed at Kauhala Beach, located next to the Ritz Carlton Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore. This well known hotel has appeared in many productions like Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Full House, Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates, and many more.
