Where was Jurassic Park III filmed?
2001
City Locations
Hawaii; South Pasadena, CA; Jordan, MT (USA)
Location Types
House, Clubs/Bars, Ranch, Nature, Beach/Oceanview
Location Styles
Beachfront, Boat Style, Craftsman, Exotic/Tropical, Plane/Helicopter Style, Retreat
About Jurassic Park III
Unleash the prehistoric excitement with Jurassic Park III. This awe-inspiring adventure film, directed by Joe Johnston, was released in 2001. Reprising his role as Dr. Alan Grant is Sam Neill, leading an ensemble cast that includes William H. Macy, Billy Brennan, Téa Leoni, and young Trevor Morgan. The film marks the third thrilling chapter in the globally-renowned Jurassic Park franchise.
The gripping plot of Jurassic Park III takes the audience through a whirlwind of emotions as it follows the esteemed paleontologist, Dr. Alan Grant, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he is duped into visiting the notorious Isla Sorna, or Site B. He is hired by the desperate couple, Paul (William H. Macy) and Amanda Kirby (Téa Leoni), who are urgently seeking his help to rescue their son, Eric (Trevor Morgan), marooned on the fearsome island teeming with dinosaurs. As they delve deeper into the island's treacherous landscape, they encounter an array of formidable creatures and find themselves in a desperate battle for survival.
Jurassic Park III was not only a box office hit, but it also made its mark on the awards circuit, earning several nominations and accolades. The film's riveting score, masterfully composed by Don Davis, won a nomination for the prestigious BMI Film Music Award in 2002.
Furthermore, the film's exceptional sound editing was recognized with a nomination at the Golden Reel Awards, and its engaging special effects earned a nomination for the Saturn Awards in 2002. Indeed, Jurassic Park III is an exhilarating cinematic experience that pushes the boundaries of adventure and suspense.
Jurassic Park III Locations
Jurassic Park III took its production back to the lush landscapes of Hawaii. However, in an intriguing twist, the film expanded its Hawaiian horizons beyond the previously used islands of Oahu and Kauai to include scenes shot on Molokai—a smaller island acting as a hyphen linking Kauai and Oahu with Maui and the Big Island. This lesser-developed 'Friendly Isle' provided the film with serene backdrops of tropical rainforests and deserted beaches, embodying the isolation of 'Isla Sorna.'
Most of the scenes were shot on the northeastern coast of Molokai, known for its distinctive rocky outcrops, and at Jurassic Kahili Ranch on Kauai. Despite its prehistoric name, the latter is an active cattle ranch spanning 2,500 acres of diverse terrain, including waterfalls, streams, and lush forests leading to mountainous areas.
Moreover, the film also ventured into urban settings like South Pasadena for Dr. Grant's home scene and Occidental College for the lecture scene. A worthwhile visit for film buffs would be Thorne Hall at Occidental College, a frequently used filming location seen in films like Clueless and Star Trek III: The Search for Spock.
The captivating dinosaur stampede sequence in Jurassic Park III was shot at the enigmatic Heeia Kea Ranch on the eastern flank of Oahu. Although details about this location remain sparse, its contribution to the film's dramatic tension is undeniable. In another pivotal scene, the old InGen barge navigates along the picturesque Wailua River on the eastern side of Kauai. Meanwhile, the awe-inspiring vista of roaming dinosaur herds was filmed at Puu Ka Ele Reservoir, nestled within the confines of Jurassic Kahili Ranch. This location might ring a bell for franchise fans, as it was also featured in the original Jurassic Park film.
A visit to these destinations would undoubtedly be a remarkable experience for any Jurassic Park enthusiast or filmmaking enthusiast. The breathtaking landscapes provide a behind-the-scenes look at the film's production and offer a chance to immerse oneself in the serene natural beauty of the Hawaiian islands.
Ellie Sattler's house scene in Jurassic Park III
1230 Milan Ave, South Pasadena, CA 91030, USA
There's a heartwarming scene featuring toddler Charlie (Blake Michael Bryan) engrossed in playing with his dinosaur toys in his backyard sandbox. As he plays, paleontologist Dr. Alan Grant attempts to educate him on which dinosaurs were predators, only to be gently reminded by Dr. Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) that Charlie might be a bit young for such detailed information. Ellie's husband, Mark Degler (Taylor Nichols), joins the scene, and they all share a dinner together.
This familial scene was filmed at a private residence located at 1230 Milan Avenue in South Pasadena. Interestingly, this house also served as The Lawrence House in the television series Family, which aired from 1976 to 1980.
While the house is privately owned and interior access is not permitted to fans, the exterior can still be admired from a respectful distance. Those eager to see this iconic location should be mindful not to disturb the residents.
To reach this destination from Los Angeles, take I-110 N towards Pasadena and exit onto Fair Oaks Avenue. Then, turn right onto State Street and left onto Milan Avenue. Alternatively, you can also use public transportation from Los Angeles by taking a bus with a transfer at the Huntington/Maycrest stop.
Alan and Billy meet Paul Kirby at the bar scene in Jurassic Park III
Hell Creek Bar, 502 Main St, Jordan, MT 59337, USA
In Jurassic Park III, Paul Kirby and his wife extend an invitation to Dr. Alan Grant and his assistant Billy Brennan (Alessandro Nivola) to meet at a neighborhood bar. At this gathering, the Kirbys suggest that Dr. Grant should accompany them as a guide for a forthcoming flight over Isla Sorna, luring him with the promise of substantial funding for his continuing research.
This scene was filmed at the Hell Creek Bar, 502 Main St, Jordan, Montana. With over a century of history, the bar has long been a fixture in the local community, serving as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Established initially as a saloon to cater to the burgeoning ranching and mining industries of the early 1900s, the Hell Creek Bar has evolved into a cherished establishment.
The interior of the bar is rich with local history. The walls are adorned with photographs of local cowboys and vintage mining equipment, creating a tangible link to the region’s past. This rustic ambiance contributes to the authenticity and depth of the scene in Jurassic Park III.
If you're interested in visiting this iconic location, it's relatively straightforward. Jordan, Montana, is approximately 176 miles northeast of Billings, the state's largest city. You can reach Jordan by car via US-87 N and MT-200 E. Once in town, the Hell Creek Bar is conveniently located on Main Street.
View Filming Locations
The group tries to find Cooper scene in Jurassic Park III
Dillingham Kawaihapai Airfield (HDH), 69-415 Farrington Hwy, Waialua, HI 96791, USA
The group is hastily boarding an aircraft, only to realize that Cooper (John Diehl) is nowhere to be found. Suddenly, shots ring out from the nearby underbrush. As they initiate take-off along the runway, a wounded and frantic Cooper emerges from the foliage, desperately signaling them to stop. Despite his pleas, Nash (Bruce A. Young), the pilot, knows it's too late to halt their momentum. Just then, a colossal dinosaur bursts from the trees and devours Cooper, splattering blood on the plane as it narrowly avoids a collision.
This dramatic sequence was filmed at Dillingham Kawaihapai Airfield in Waialua. Situated on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii's main island, Dillingham Airfield serves both public and military purposes. The Hawaii Department of Transportation operates the airfield under a 25-year lease from the United States Army. Known primarily for its gliding and skydiving operations, the airfield also has an iconic place in cinematic history.
If you're interested in visiting this unique location, it's located roughly 40 miles north of Honolulu. From Honolulu, you can take Interstate H-1 W and HI-99 S to Farrington Hwy in Mokuleʻia, following signs for the airfield. However, given the operational nature of the site, fans are advised to contact the administration to inquire about possible visitations.
Access Honolulu Filming Locations
The group meets Tyrannosaurus rex scene in Jurassic Park III
Jurassic Kahili Ranch, 5-1771D, Kuhio Hwy, Kilauea, HI 96754, USA
The group finds themselves amid a feeding Tyrannosaurus rex. Dr. Grant advises everyone to remain still, but panic ensues, and they all run. This leads to an epic showdown between two massive dinosaurs as the humans scramble to escape. The more enormous dinosaur eventually defeats the T-rex, snapping its neck. Dr. Grant narrowly escapes the encounter alive.
This thrilling sequence was filmed at the historic Jurassic Kahili Ranch in Kauai, which is also featured in the original Jurassic Park, where the dinosaurs are seen grazing in verdant meadows. Most of Jurassic Park III's filming locations, particularly the jungle scenes, are found here. For the film's stunts and special effects work, a soundstage replica blends seamlessly with the actual Hawaii jungle throughout the movie. Another notable scene filmed at the ranch is when the characters are caught in a stampede.
The Jurassic Kahili Ranch, gifted initially to the Mary N. Lucas family by King Kamehameha III in 1847, was purchased to preserve the land and continue the stewardship that has been part of its 150-year history. The diverse terrain includes stunning waterfalls, ponds and streams, lush forests, and remarkable mountainous areas.
To reach the ranch from Lihue Airport in Kauai, take Ahukini Road and continue onto Kapule Highway. Follow HI-56 N and then turn right onto Kokee Road until you arrive at your destination. Alternatively, you can use public transportation with a transfer to Kalepa Village.
Video Shoot Locations Exploration
The river scene in Jurassic Park III
Wailua River, Wailua, HI 96746, USA
The characters board an abandoned barge and set off downriver towards the coast. However, their journey is far from smooth sailing. The Spinosaurus, a prehistoric predator, catches up to them and attacks the boat, violently plunging it into the storm-lashed river. Despite the scene's chaos, each actor ends up submerged in the water due to the dinosaur's attack.
This particular sequence was filmed in a large water tank for safety reasons. However, the river depicted in the film as the "Site B River" is actually the Wailua River, located in Kauai, Hawaii. Known for its serene beauty, the Wailua River winds past stunning waterfalls and lush jungle landscapes along the island's East Side.
As the largest navigable river in Hawaii, the Wailua River offers various exploration methods, including kayaking, SUP, or outrigger canoeing. Open-air boats also offer guided tours of the Fern Grotto, a natural lava rock cave adorned with draping ferns. This romantic spot is a popular wedding venue.
To get to the Wailua River from Lihue Airport, follow HI-56 N/Kuhio Highway for approximately 6 miles until you come across signs indicating Wailua River State Park. This park provides access to the river. If you choose to drive or take a taxi, the journey will only take about 10 minutes. However, if you opt for the bus, be prepared for an hour-long ride.
Locate Film Shoot Locations
The group rushes towards the shoreline scene in Jurassic Park III
Pila’a Beach, Hawaii 96754, USA
The group races to the shore and spots a man with a megaphone calling out for Dr. Alan The Kirbys rush forward, waving their arms and warning that it's a terrible idea, echoing Alan's sentiment from the beginning of their adventure. However, they soon realize they are not alone on the beach—helicopters, troop landing ships, and a significant display of firepower quickly join the lone figure. As the helicopters fly away, they are passed by a Pteranodon, a prehistoric flying reptile, soaring freely.
This climactic scene was filmed at the picturesque Pila'a Beach on Kauai's northeast shore. Known for its striking scenery, Pila’a Beach, however, is not easily accessible and can be hazardous due to its rocky seafloor and turbulent waters. Additionally, the powerful riptide makes it unsuitable for snorkeling and paddleboarding, leading most surfers to opt for the more welcoming Kahili Quarry Beach nearby.
Furthermore, access to Pila’a Beach is challenging as the entire property behind it is privately owned by Mark Zuckerberg. With the land's development and the construction of a large wall, reaching the trail to the beach has become increasingly difficult.
The site is not far from Jurassic Kahili Ranch, so you can visit two places at once if you have a car. However, the beach is accessible via a gravel road that branches off North Waiakalua Road. A steep path leads down to the beach, or you can take the path to Waiakalua Beach and then walk east along the rocks to reach this secluded spot.
Explore Production Spaces
Conclusion
Jurassic Park III has received a mixed bag of reviews. Some viewers laud it as a fun-filled action flick, an entertaining entry in the Jurassic Park trilogy. Others view it as a disappointment, with criticisms often centered on the film's pacing and lack of character development.
The natural splendor of the shooting locations for Jurassic Park III was widely admired. The majority of the film was captured in the picturesque settings of Hawaii, particularly on the northeastern shore of Molokai and at the renowned Jurassic Kahili Ranch on Kauai. These verdant and stunning locales imbued the movie with an authentic feel, portraying an island teeming with dinosaurs.
As part of the iconic franchise, Jurassic Park III maintained the series' legacy of utilizing groundbreaking animatronics and special effects. Even though the quality of these effects varied throughout the film, there were moments of exceptional puppetry and advanced animatronic creations. This highlights the movie's continuing commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology in cinema.
If you're after a fun, action-packed adventure with impressive dinosaur effects, then Jurassic Park III is worth a watch!