Disney has unveiled the filming locations for the live-action adaptation of its animated hit Moana.
Moana is a Disney animated film set on the Polynesian islands of Oceania, following the adventures of Moana, daughter of the Motunui chief, and the demigod Maui as they sail to save their island. After eight years, the 2016 film Moana’s follow-up, Moana 2, hit theaters on December 27.
Alongside the sequel’s release, production for the live-action Moana has kicked off—reports of filming surfaced from Oahu, Hawaii. Fans were thrilled to spot meticulously recreated costumes and Moana’s iconic canoe on set. The film stars Australian actor Catherine Laga’aia and Dwayne Johnson, reprising his role as the voice of Maui.
Pokai Beach on Oahu is the primary filming location. Oahu is the third-largest Hawaiian island, home to more than two-thirds of the state’s population. Among the island’s 180.2 kilometers (112.5 miles) of breathtaking coastline is the well-known Waikiki Beach.
Located about an hour’s drive from Waikiki, Pokai Beach offers a serene setting for filming.
Pokai Beach was formerly known as “Malaea,” which means calm. The breakwater blocks large waves, so the beach stays calm throughout the year.
The gentle surf at Pokai Beach makes it ideal for swimmers of all ages, from children to seniors. It is also a hotspot for snorkeling and surfing, particularly popular among novice wave riders. Visitors often catch glimpses of sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals along the shore. Disney has set an ambitious target for the live-action Moana, aiming to release the film on July 10, 2026.
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