With wildfires burning a path of destruction across Maui this week, life in Hawaii for most residents and tourists has been brought to a halt.
The fires have decimated landmarks, especially in the town of Lahaina, as well as some of the state’s signature lush landscapes, and left many people wondering how long it will take for the region to recover.
While the fires have affected many industries, it’s fortunate that few film and TV productions are actively filming in the state right now as a result of the ongoing SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes. Shows like NCIS: Hawaii, which stars Vanessa Lachey, are paused because of the strikes, but many fans of the show have been left wondering where NCIS: Hawaii is actually filmed and whether the show has been affected by the fires.
Curious about the NCIS: Hawaii filming locations? Read on for more information.
NCIS: Hawaii, which first premiered in 2021, stars Lachey as Jane Tennant, a special agent in charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor. Pearl Harbor is located on the island of Oahu, which is where much of the filming takes place. (There are currently no active fires on the island of Oahu.)
One of the primary filming locations is at the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, located near the state capital Honolulu, and the show has also filmed around the famous Waikiki Beach. For interiors and scenes requiring a sound stage, the show often films at Hawaii Film Studio in Honolulu, which was also used for the filming of Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-0.
When it comes to crime dramas, NCIS: Hawaii stands out—not just for its thrilling investigations but also for its breathtaking backdrops. If you’ve ever watched an episode and wondered, “Where was NCIS: Hawaii filmed?” you’re in the right place. This guide will take you through the picturesque locations used in the series and how they contribute to the show’s immersive experience.
H1: A Glimpse Into ‘NCIS: Hawaii’
NCIS: Hawaii is the latest installment in the NCIS franchise, bringing a tropical twist to the investigative crime series. Following Special Agent Jane Tennant and her team, the show delivers action-packed stories set against Hawaii’s stunning landscapes.
But what makes this series visually captivating? Let’s explore the actual locations used in filming.
H2: The Primary Filming Location – Oahu, Hawaii
H3: Why Oahu?
Oahu is the heart of NCIS: Hawaii filming. Known as “The Gathering Place,” Oahu offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and urban settings, allowing the show to seamlessly transition between crime scenes, military bases, and breathtaking landscapes.
H3: How Oahu Brings ‘NCIS: Hawaii’ to Life
From its pristine beaches to bustling cityscapes, Oahu captures the essence of the show. Whether it’s high-speed chases through Honolulu or intense interrogations with an ocean view, every scene is made more compelling by its stunning surroundings.
H2: Key NCIS: Hawaii Filming Locations
H3: Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam
A major military installation in real life, Pearl Harbor-Hickam serves as an authentic setting for the show’s naval investigations. Many scenes involving military operations or high-stakes briefings are filmed here.
H3: Waikiki Beach – Where Crime Meets Paradise
One of the most famous beaches in the world, Waikiki Beach features in multiple episodes. The contrast between the peaceful beach setting and the intense crime investigations makes for dramatic storytelling.
H3: Kualoa Ranch – The Ultimate Filming Hotspot
Kualoa Ranch is no stranger to Hollywood. Known for its appearances in Jurassic Park, Lost, and now NCIS: Hawaii, this lush, green paradise is used for action sequences and secret hideouts.
H3: Downtown Honolulu – Urban Crime Scenes
Honolulu provides the perfect cityscape for action-packed chases and undercover operations. The mix of modern high-rises and historic buildings creates an engaging visual experience for viewers.
H3: The North Shore – A Secluded Crime Haven
The North Shore is famous for its massive waves, but in NCIS: Hawaii, it serves as the backdrop for mysterious cases that take place away from the crowded city.
H2: Lesser-Known NCIS: Hawaii Filming Spots
H3: Ala Moana Beach Park – A Hidden Gem
Not as famous as Waikiki, Ala Moana Beach Park offers stunning scenery and is often used for outdoor crime scenes.
H3: Makapu’u Point – Dramatic Cliffs & Ocean Views
This location adds a cinematic edge to the show, featuring in intense confrontations and dramatic moments.
H3: Halona Blowhole – Where Nature Meets Drama
This natural wonder has made an appearance in various films and is now part of NCIS: Hawaii’s iconic locations.
H2: How Hawaii’s Culture Influences the Show
Hawaii isn’t just a pretty backdrop—it plays a crucial role in the storytelling. The show incorporates Hawaiian traditions, local communities, and even native language elements to create authenticity.
H2: How to Visit NCIS: Hawaii Filming Locations
H3: Guided Tours for Film Buffs
There are several tours available that take you to famous filming spots, including Kualoa Ranch and Waikiki Beach.
H3: DIY Filming Location Tour
If you prefer to explore on your own, you can visit the show’s key locations while enjoying Hawaii’s natural beauty.
H2: Why Fans Love NCIS: Hawaii’s Filming Locations
The show’s immersive filming locations make viewers feel like they’re part of the action. The combination of real-life military settings, stunning beaches, and lush landscapes creates a unique viewing experience.
H2: Conclusion – NCIS: Hawaii is a Visual Treat
The magic of NCIS: Hawaii lies in its blend of action, crime-solving, and breathtaking scenery. Oahu, with its diverse landscapes, serves as the perfect stage for this thrilling series. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious traveler, exploring these filming locations offers a new appreciation for both the show and Hawaii’s beauty.
