The pounding surf, the white sand and the endless sun – the Hawaiian islands provide ample reasons for Hollywood to want to visit. TV viewers have been regularly lured to this Pacific outpost from the 1960s with police drama Hawaii 5-0, and consequent series such as Magnum PI and LOST have continued our visual addiction, as well as film such as Blue Hawaii, Jurassic Park and Point Break.
With the relaunch of Hawaii 5-0, viewers will be regularly hit with sun-soaked visions of the island lifestyle.What are the must-see places to visit when you’re on Oahu and in Honolulu? From monuments to beaches, Oahu boasts many favourites of TV crews – several which will be showcased in the new series of Hawaii 5-0 ( and can be spotted in the opening credits):
Waikiki Beach
The heart of the south shore of Oahu, Waikiki is a beautiful beach, a perfect place to learn to surf or take stand-up paddle lessons as well as a neighbourhood filled with restaurants, cafes and boutiques. This area was home to the first hotel, the Moana Surfrider in 1901 and several hotels continue to make their home here. The temptations of shopping at the Waikiki Beach Walk are a welcome respite after hours in the sun.
Leahi (Diamond Head State Monument)
The distinctive shape of Leahi is due to a crater formed more than 100,000 years ago. Named Diamond Head by British sailors who thought the calcite crystals found around it were diamonds, this perch was used as a military lookout and is now a Natural National Monument, and a popular spot for hiking.
Pearl Harbor
The main harbour of Honolulu and the home to the US Military’s Pacific Fleet, this area also houses monuments to those who died on December 7, 1941, after an attack by the Japanese military.
Chinatown
This popular neighbourhood in downtown Honolulu is home to many different Asian groups including Chinese, Vietnamese, Laotian, Filipino,Korean Thai and Japanese. It’s distinct restaurants, architecture and nightlife make it a perfect spot for visitors and tv crews.
North shore
This area of Oahu is where to find the surfers – whether its Sunset Beach or Waimea Bay, this coastline is populated with locals and visitors who want to see if they can catch the big wave. If you’re not up for the challenge of the big surf, there are plenty of places to perch and just watch the action.
Turtle Bay Resort
One of the few major resorts on the north shore, this elegant resort is the perfect laid-back playground for those wanting to just enjoy sand, surf and quiet. This hotel was regularly been used as a location for LOST as well as the comedy film Forgetting Sarah Marshall.