Over a decade after the last film hit the big screens, the Jurassic Park franchise is gearing up for the highly anticipated release of the sequel, Jurassic World. But before you go and see it, we thought you might want to know about the spectacular Hawaiian locations where some of the scenes were filmed.

Kualoa Ranch

Much filming took place at this lush, 4000-acre ranch in Oahu, Hawaii. It’s a fab filming location for fans to visit as it offers endless activities amid the thick foliage and tropical landscapes. You’ll be imagining pre-historic encounters at every turn.

Ziplining

One for the adrenaline junkies among us! Try ziplining across miles of wire over acres of canopies, and walking across suspension bridges before hiking through nature trails between the wires. It’s an epic adventure that’s perfectly safe, with guides accompanying you every step of the way, making sure you’re strapped into your harness, and will even brake for you with their state-of-the-art automatic braking system. It will be a breeze, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Then again, it could be just the thing you needed to cure you of your vertigo.

Film Set Tour

Alternatively, you can opt for Kualoa Ranch’s movie set tour on a vintage school bus, and make your way through the sets of many a blockbuster and TV show. That’s right, the creators of Jurassic Park weren’t the first to film here and they certainly won’t be the last. Scenes from 50 First Dates, Lost and You Me & Dupree were also shot on these hallowed grounds.

Badass Rides

If you’re more interested in jungle and nature exploration than knowing where Drew Barrymore’s dressing room trailer was parked, hop on a vintage six-wheel military vehicle for a jungle expedition. These wheels have seen it all so you’ll be safe traversing this rough terrain. Prepare yourself for a bumpy ride as you slosh through muddy streams, climb steep hills and cruise around feeling like a badass. A 90-minute tour costs around $25 per person.

All Terrain Driving

They’re called all-terrain vehicles for a reason, you’ll find out why when you zoom through the craggy land. You’ll feel a rush of adrenaline when you splash through streams, and bump over rocks. Naturally it’s more expensive than the six-wheel drive, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for a more thrilling ride.

Beach Life

For beach activities head to Secret Island Beach, which has changing rooms and tonnes of equipment to help you make the most of your visit. You can kayak, canoe, snorkel or just chill in a hammock. On selected dates you can go on a trip on in a glass bottom boat and see some awesome marine life. Enjoy these activities for three hours for around $35. Plus it won’t get overcrowded, with limited spaces available each day.

 

More Filming Locations:

Waialeale Blue Hole

This immense canyon in Kaua’i is blanketed by lush vegetation. Hike down it and you’ll see waterfalls, interesting plants and a lot of wildlife. Long sleeves are advised as it gets muddy and wet, but it’s well worth the tiresome trek. When you reach the bottom you’ll be surrounded by 3000-foot cliff faces covered by lush greenery. This was an obvious choice for the film makers. Remote and largely untouched, it’s was a likely home to the prehistoric beasts that once roamed the earth.

Manoa Falls

This waterfall is accessed by hike through thick rainforest. It may take as long as two hours to get there, but when you do, you’ll gaze up at the seemingly never-ending trail of water gushing towards you from a vertical drop of around 150 feet, and from this day on, every film involving a tense “will they fall over the edge” waterfall scene will remind you if Manoa Falls.

Manawaiopuna Falls

These falls lie in the Hanapepe Valley in Kaua’i, and are otherwise known as Jurassic Park Falls. You can swoop through the valley in a helicopter while the theme tune plays through your earphones. The Exclusive Jurassic Falls Helicopter Landing Adventure will really transport you to that iconic scene where Dr Alan Grant lands on Isla Nublar for the first time. You can communicate with your pilot throughout the tour, and after you’ll have the option of going on a of hiking adventure through the tranquil forests. You’ll have to hum the soundtrack yourself from this point if you insist on a musical accompaniment throughout the day. After a long day of travelling, you can visit Lihue, the main town of Kaua’i. Most accommodation choices are located on the beach or at least they have an ocean view.

Olokele Valley

Olokele Valley lies in Waimea Canyon State Park, often referred to as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, and was opened up to the public in 2007. Owner and conservationist, Keith Robinson has collaborated with a helicopter company to run eco-tours to fund his conservation efforts, and allowing visitors to see some rare Hawaiian plants. During your tour you’ll fly over the heavily ridged landscape of the Olokele Valley, with its reddish peaks jutting out like the spine of a Gigantspinosaurus.

Honolulu Zoo

This zoo is located on the main island of Honolulu, and consists of 42 acres featuring botanical gardens with beautiful native Hawaiian plants. You’ll see flowers the Naupaka, a curious half-formed flower which, as local legend has it, is the reincarnated form of a princess separated from her lover. The zoo is also home to 905 different animals, including exotic species like Sumatran tigers and komodo dragons – which is probably the closest you’ll get to seeing a dinosaur here.

 

For more about visiting Hawaii (and how to find the cheapest flights there) check out our Hawaii flight page