With the live-action remake of “Lilo & Stitch” set to begin streaming on Disney+ September 3, 2025, viewers may wonder where some of the movie’s most iconic scenes were filmed. Unlike the original 2002 animated film, which was set on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, the 2025 version features the breathtaking island of Oahu as its backdrop.
From sandy surf breaks to lush valleys and scenic drives, “Lilo & Stitch” fans can visit many of the real-life filming locations that bring this heartwarming tale of ‘ohana, friendship and antics to life. Read on to find out which Oahu landmarks are featured in the film and then check out our guides to the surrounding neighborhoods.
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The Pelekai Home: Kualoa Ranch
Producers originally searched for Lilo Pelekai’s house at Kualoa Ranch, a 4,000-acre nature reserve on the Windward Coast of Oahu that has served as the backdrop for several Hollywood movies, including “Jurassic World.” Unable to find exactly what he was looking for, the film’s director ultimately chose to construct the exterior of the Pelekai house in an area of Kualoa Ranch where some of the ranch managers live. The temporary structure has since been removed and the neighborhood is not accessible to the public; however, the Kualoa Ranch offers several options for visitors looking to explore the retreat’s jaw-dropping natural beauty.
There are no homes in Kualoa Ranch—other than those belonging to ranch employees—but the Windward Oahu neighborhoods of Waikane, south of the ranch, and Ka’a’awa, on the coast just before Crouching Lion, are the closest. The largest nearby town is Kaneohe,with 35,000 residents in more than 16,000 homes and condos. The town overlooks Kaneohe Bay, which offers fishing, boating, snorkeling, scuba diving and more. Kaneohe is also home to three golf courses, a yacht club and marina, shopping mall, a number of public and private schools, Windward Community College and Hawaii Pacific University's Windward Hawaii Loa campus. Kaneohe has a variety of housing types, from condos and townhomes to plantation-style single-family homes and large estates. Browse Kaneohe homes for sale
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Stitch and Lilo lounge in The Kahala Hotel & Resort’s hot tub. Photo credit: Disney
Ho‘omaluhia Resort & Spa: The Kahala Resort, Kahala
In the movie, aliens Jumba and Pleakley stay at the fictious Ho‘omaluhia Resort and Spa while making their plans to capture the fun-loving extraterrestrial escapee Stitch. Careful observers may recognize the beachfront resort as The Kahala Hotel & Resort, an iconic property just east of Honolulu, in the luxury neighborhood of Kahala.
Known as the “Beverly Hills” of Oahu, Kahala has some of the highest-valued homes on the island. With around 1,000 lots, Kahala offers close proximity to shopping, parks and beaches. Although primarily a single-family home neighborhood, there are a few condos in Kahala. The 60 beachfront estates along the iconic Kahala Avenue are especially prized and can command tens of millions of dollars. Browse Kahala homes for sale
The Scenic Southeastern Shoreline: Kalaniana'ole Highway
In one action-packed scene, Lilo and Stitch, with sister Nani at the wheel, zoom down the southeastern coast of Oahu on Kalaniana‘ole Highway—a route known for its jaw-dropping ocean views and rugged cliffs. As the trio travels along the highway, Sandy Beach can be seen in the background. Across the highway from Sandy Beach is the Hawaii Kai neighborhood of Kalama Valley.
A large and diverse real estate market, Hawaii Kai offers a range of housing options. There is a variety of single-family homes, luxury estates—including waterfront properties—townhomes and condos, making Hawaii Kai attractive to homeowners, vacation homeowners and investors alike. Less than 30 minutes from downtown, Hawaii Kai gives residents the best of both worlds—easy access to Honolulu’s amenities while providing a peaceful retreat that feels like a true escape from city life. Nestled within Hawaii Kai, Kalama Valley offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle with close proximity to shopping, dining and entertainment. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy easy access to Sandy Beach, Makapu’u Beach and the scenic Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail. Browse Kalama Valley homes for sale
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Hawaiian Rollercoaster Ride: Makaha Beach
Nothing says “Hawaii” like surfing, and for the magical “Hawaiian Rollercoaster Ride” sequence, the filmmakers chose stunning Makaha Beach. Known for its golden sands and consistent surf, this beach captures the fun and freedom of island life. It's also far less crowded than other popular spots, making it ideal for a laid-back beach day.
Makaha is a residential area on the Leeward Coast of Oahu. With stunning views of the Waianae Mountain Range and direct access to the pristine turquoise coastline, Makaha is an ideal spot to take in the natural beauty of the island. From surfing—like Nani, Lilo and Stitch do in the movie—to snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and more, Makaha affords easy access to a variety of water sports. It's also home to whales, dolphins and green sea turtles, or honu. Homes in Makaha range from affordably priced condos to multi-million dollar beachfront estates. Browse Makaha homes for sale
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Lilo’s Hometown of Kokaua: Haleiwa
The iconic surf town of Haleiwa on the North Shore of Oahu stands in for the fictional town of Kokaua. With its plantation-style storefronts, surf shops and colorful art galleries, Haleiwa perfectly fits the vibe of Lilo’s hometown.
Home to around 4,000 people, Haleiwa is one of the largest neighborhoods on the North Shore and a popular tourist destination. Plantation-style single-family homes are typical for Haleiwa—many of which have been remodeled in recent years. There are also some large estates along the beach, further from the town center. View Haleiwa homes for sale
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Jimmy’s Luau: Germaine’s Luau, Kapolei
The lively luau scene in the film—complete with hula dancing and island feasting—was filmed at Germaine’s Luau in Kapolei, on Oahu’s sunny west side. This popular attraction delivers an authentic Polynesian experience, with beachfront seating, traditional imu-cooked pig and family-friendly entertainment. It’s a great place to soak up the festive aloha spirit that runs throughout the film.
Located on the west side of the island, Kapolei is also known as Oahu's "Second City." The former plantation community features several new housing developments, ranging from luxury communities to affordable housing for first-time homebuyers. Kapolei is a vibrant neighborhood with a variety of shopping centers, schools, parks, medical facilities and more than 12,000 homes already built—along with 40,000 more expected by 2035. While growth continues, including the addition of Honolulu Rail stops, Kapolei maintains its relaxed island lifestyle with pedestrian-friendly design, wide streets and community-focused amenities. It’s a spacious, convenient and welcoming place to call home on Oahu’s west side. Browse Kapolei homes for sale
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A Classic Cameo: Waikiki
No movie set on Oahu would be complete without a glimpse of world-famous Waikiki Beach. This iconic stretch of sand in Honolulu appears as Experiment 626—Stitch—escapes his alien prison and crashes to Earth to cause intergalactic mischief.
With its postcard views of Diamond Head and a bustling beach scene, Waikiki is beloved by visitors and longtime kama‘aina alike. Located on Oahu’s south shore, Waikiki provides convenient access to beaches, shopping, dining and entertainment, all just minutes from downtown Honolulu. Its prime location makes it a popular choice for both residents and investors, driving strong demand for real estate in the area. Housing stock in Waikiki consists primarily of condo towers, ranging from older, basic buildings to newer luxury projects. Waikiki is also an attractive market for real estate investors, driven by high demand for both short-term and long-term rentals. Browse Waikiki homes for sale
Live in a Location That Inspired the Magic
Interested in living near one of these magical "Lilo & Stitch" filming locations? Our neighborhood experts at Locations can help you find your dream home—whether it's in Makaha, Hawaii Kai, or anywhere in between. Connect with a Locations agent today.
