Where was Moana Filmed?

The Moana filming locations aren’t just cinematic backdrops; they’re real-life slices of paradise and unexpected gems that are just waiting to be explored. From lush valleys and turquoise coastlines to forested trails and studio magic, the live-action adaptation of Disney’s beloved tale has spotlighted some of the most breathtaking destinations on earth. Join us on a journey that will whisk you away to the places where nature steals the scene. Think cascading waterfalls, volcanic ridges, beaches so pristine they look photoshopped, and beautiful Southern woodlands. Whether you’re a fan of the Walt Disney Animation Studios and Seven Bucks Productions blockbuster or simply chasing your next great escape, this guide will uncover the tropical stars that made the movie magic happen. So, grab your sunhat, pack your sense of adventure, and let’s sail into the heart of the Pacific, where every wave tells a story and every sunset feels like a scene from the silver screen.

01

Pokai Beach, Oahu

A hidden gem where island dreams meet movie magic

Standing spectacularly on the sun-kissed western shore of Oahu, Pokai Bay is one of those rare Hawaiian treasures that feels like a secret kept by the ocean. With its calm waters and crescent-shaped beach, this serene bay in Waianae served as a stunning backdrop for the fictional island of Motunui, a place where the spirit of exploration and Polynesian heritage truly come alive. On filming days, locals spotted the iconic canoe and vibrant costumes that brought the story to life, with stars like Catherine Laga’aia and Dwayne Johnson seen capturing the magic right on the sand.

But Pokai Bay isn’t just for the cameras. Unlike the beautiful but bustling beaches of Waikiki, this bay offers a slower rhythm, ideal for travelers craving authenticity. Early risers are rewarded with golden sunrises over the Waianae Range, while evenings bring pastel skies and the gentle lull of waves. It’s a favorite among local families and fishers, and if you visit on a weekday, you just might have the beach nearly to yourself.

Head to the far north end of the bay where the reef creates a natural tide pool, ideal for spotting sea cucumbers and tiny fish. It’s a quiet corner that even some locals overlook. For a deeper cultural experience, time your visit with a community event at the nearby Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, which often hosts hula performances and craft fairs.

Pokai Bay is one of the few spots on Oahu where you can rent a traditional outrigger canoe and paddle out just like Moana herself. It’s a peaceful bay, wonderful for beginners, and the view from the water—lush mountains behind you, endless ocean ahead—is unforgettable. Come to Pokai Bay for the movie magic but stay for the mana, the deep spiritual energy that flows through Māori land, sea, and culture.

02

Ka’ala Mountain & surrounding areas, Oahu

Towering views and sacred vibes in Oahu’s heart

Rising above the clouds at 4,025 feet, Ka’ala Mountain is the highest point on Oahu, and it’s every bit as majestic as it sounds. It’s widely believed that this lush, mist-wrapped peak and its surrounding rainforest were used for sweeping landscape shots in the film, capturing the untamed beauty and spiritual depth of the island’s interior. Just a short drive away, the Punchbowl Crater, a dramatic volcanic tuff cone, may have also served as a filming location. Its panoramic ridges offer a bird’s-eye view of Honolulu that feels straight out of a storybook.

This spot deserves to be on your Hawaiian itinerary because this is where Oahu’s wild heart beats loudest. The Ka’ala Natural Area Reserve is a haven for native flora and fauna, including rare Hawaiian tree snails and endemic ferns. Hiking the Ka’ala Trail is a true challenge—it’s rugged, muddy, and steep—but the reward is a surreal boardwalk through a cloud forest, often shrouded in mist. It’s like stepping into another world.

For a less strenuous but equally stunning experience, explore the Mākua Valley below Ka’ala. It’s rich in cultural history and often overlooked. Local guides sometimes offer storytelling hikes that blend Hawaiian mythology with ecological insight, fantastic for those wanting more than just a photo op.

Ka’ala is located in the Waianae Range on Oahu’s west side. The trailhead begins near Schofield Barracks, about an hour’s drive from Honolulu. Consider accommodations in Waianae or Makaha for a more local, off-the-beaten-path vibe. The Punchbowl Crater, meanwhile, is just minutes from downtown Honolulu, where you’ll find a wide range of hotels, from boutique stays to luxury resorts. Whether you’re chasing clouds at Ka’ala’s summit or soaking in the solemn beauty of the Punchbowl’s crater, this region offers a deeper, quieter kind of allure, one that lingers long after the credits roll.

03

Polynesia

Where ancient traditions and tropical beauty set the scene

Polynesia is a vast, living tapestry of islands, cultures, and seafaring legacies that stretch across the Pacific like constellations in the night sky. As a possible filming location, Polynesia provided more than just a backdrop; it offered authenticity, soul, and a deep connection to the traditions that inspired the story. It’s widely believed that scenes involving traditional navigation, village life, and sacred rituals were filmed across parts of French Polynesia, including Tahiti, Moorea, and Huahine.

These islands are the cradle of wayfinding, the ancient Polynesian art of navigating the ocean using stars, swells, and seabirds. Visitors can immerse themselves in this legacy by visiting cultural centers like Fare Hape in Tahiti’s Papeno’o Valley, where local guides share stories of celestial navigation and demonstrate traditional canoe-building techniques. It’s a rare chance to step into the shoes of the great voyagers who once crossed thousands of miles of open ocean with nothing but the sky and the sea as their map. On Moorea, join a sunrise outrigger canoe tour with a local navigator. Not only will you glide across crystal-clear lagoons, but you’ll also learn how Polynesians read the ocean’s rhythms, an experience that’s both meditative and mind-expanding.

Most travelers fly to Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti, with easy connections to the nearby islands via ferry or short domestic flights. Once there, island-hopping is a breeze, and each destination offers its own unique charm—from the verdant mountains of Moorea to the tranquil villages of Huahine. We recommend opting for a family-run guesthouse or an eco-lodge, as these stays often include meals, cultural workshops, and a warm hospitality that turns a trip into a memory. If you’re dreaming of indulgence, Polynesia hotels offer stunning overwater bungalows, luxury resorts with spa treatments, and beachfront suites that blend comfort with island charm.

Polynesia isn’t just where the story of Moana was told; it’s where the story comes from. Every palm frond, every chant, every starlit wave carries the mana of generations past. And when you visit, you don’t just see the islands, you feel them.

04

Honolulu, Hawaii

Hawaii’s beating heart and behind-the-scenes hub

While the verdant valleys and remote beaches of Hawaii often steal the spotlight, Honolulu quietly played a vital role in the live-action movie, not just on screen, but behind the scenes. As the capital of Hawaii and the largest city in the islands, Honolulu served as a logistical base for crew operations, equipment storage, and production coordination. It’s also believed that some port scenes, as well as landscape shots, were filmed here, capturing the city’s natural beauty.

But Honolulu is more than a film set; it’s a destination in its own right. From the historic charm of Iolani Palace to the bustling waterfront of Ala Moana Harbor, the city offers a rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and coastline. Explore the vibrant Chinatown district or catch a sunset from Magic Island, where the skyline glows against the backdrop of Diamond Head. Consider hopping aboard a catamaran cruise from Kewalo Basin Harbor for panoramic views of the cityscape and shore. You’ll be able to spot familiar filming angles as you soak in the golden hour glow.

Things to do in Honolulu go far beyond beach days. Venture inland and you’ll find colorful hiking trails like Mānoa Falls and Tantalus Lookout, both offering cinematic views of the island’s interior. The city’s public art scene is thriving, especially in Kaka’ako, where dazzling murals line the streets and weekend markets buzz with local crafts and gourmet snacks. Skip the chain coffee shops and head to Downtown Honolulu for artisanal cafes serving locally grown beans with a side of aloha.

Honolulu accommodations are varied, from sleek, high-rise hotels in Waikiki to boutique stays tucked into quieter neighborhoods like Kaimuki and Mānoa. Many resorts feature rooftop pools, oceanfront dining, and curated cultural experiences like lei-making and ukulele workshops. Travelers seeking a more local vibe should consider staying in Kapahulu, where they’re just steps away from hidden poke shops and vintage surf boutiques. Some hotels even offer guided excursions to filming locations and lesser-known scenic spots.

Whether you’re retracing cinematic footsteps or simply enjoying the island’s rhythm, Honolulu invites you to experience Hawaii’s soul, where tradition meets innovation and every street has a story.

05

Atlanta, Georgia

A winning combo of Southern charm and silver-screen sparkle

Though not a tropical island, Atlanta, Georgia, was a quiet yet crucial Moana filming location. While the film’s heart beats in the Pacific, many of its scenes were brought to life in Atlanta’s world-class studios by director Thomas Kail and their crew. The city’s thriving film industry, dubbed the “Hollywood of the South,” provided an ideal controlled environment for complex sequences, from intricately designed village interiors to atmospheric ceremonial spaces.

But Atlanta didn’t just stay indoors. Nature lovers might recognize the rugged beauty of Sweetwater Creek State Park, a vibrant green space just west of the city. With its rushing river, mossy ruins, and dense forest trails, the park’s photogenic scenery has made it a favorite for filmmakers seeking a wild, untamed look without leaving the mainland. It’s speculated that this was used as a filming location, as it’s easy to imagine a young voyager wandering through its misty woods or a sacred ritual unfolding beneath its towering trees.

Hike the Red Trail along the creek to the ruins of the New Manchester Mill. Arrive early in the morning when the light filters through the trees for striking photos. Beyond hiking, the park offers kayaking and paddleboarding on the reservoir, ranger-led nature programs, and shaded picnic spots ideal for a scenic lunch. Wildlife lovers might spot deer, herons, or even the occasional river otter. If you’re lucky, you might catch a film crew in action as the park is still an active filming location.

Atlanta boasts plenty of accommodations, including chic downtown hotels with skyline views and cozy boutique inns in neighborhoods like Inman Park and Virginia Highland. For those wanting to stay close to nature, there are charming cabins and glamping options near Sweetwater Creek that offer a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring.

While you’re in town, dive into Atlanta’s vibrant arts scene, sample Southern cuisine at Ponce City Market, or stroll through the Atlanta Botanical Garden. It’s a city that lends creativity, culture, and comfort, making it an amazing stop on your journey.

Are you ready to chase the horizon? From the tranquil shores of Pokai Bay to the misty peaks of Ka’ala, the vivid islands of Polynesia to the dynamic energy of Honolulu—and even the warm charm of Atlanta—these live-action Moana filming locations offer more than outstanding natural beauty. They invite you to step into a world of adventure, culture, and connection. Whether you’re drawn by the landscapes, the legends, or the lure of the ocean, your next great escape is waiting. So, why not make your own voyage? Book your flights, secure your hotel, follow the tides, and let the Māori mana guide you.

This content is not affiliated with or endorsed by Walt Disney Animation Studios, Seven Bucks Productions, or the producers of Moana.