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Kong: Skull Island  movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Kong: Skull Island filmed?

2017

City Locations

Ha Long Bay (Vietnam), Moreton Bay (Australia), Waialua (USA), O'ahu (USA), Kapolei (USA), Queensland (Australia), Oxenford (Australia), Los Angeles (USA), Ho Yên Phú (Vietnam), Tân Hoá (Vietnam), Chicago (USA), Honolulu (USA)

Location Types

Ranch, Film Studio, Riverside

Location Styles

Asian, Beachfront, Helicopter, Muscle, Plane, Shipping Yard

About Kong: Skull Island

Jordan Vogt-Roberts helmed the 2017 monster film Kong: Skull Island, a new version of the King Kong story and part of both Legendary Pictures' MonsterVerse. Serving as the 11th chapter of the Kong series of films, Samuel L. Jackson, Brie Larson, Tom Hiddleston, John Ortiz, John Goodman, Jing Tian, Toby Kebbell, Shea Whigham, Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell, Terry Notary, Thomas Mann, and John C. Reilly are among the cast.

In 1973, a team of researchers and Vietnam War warriors venture to Skull Island, an uncharted landmass where they come across Kong, a massive gorilla that is the last of its kind, followed by other monstrous beasts. The movie's concept was unveiled at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2014, and by September of that same year, Jordan Vogt-Roberts was named as the director.

When Kong: Skull Island was released in theaters on March 10, 2017, it received positive reviews from critics for its impressive visuals, thrilling action scenes, and excellent acting from the cast, especially Jackson and Reilly.

Moreover, it proved to be a huge success at the box office, earning a whopping $566 million globally and holding the title of the highest-grossing film in the MonsterVerse franchise so far. The film was also nominated for Best Visual Effects at the 90th Academy Awards. The Godzilla vs. Kong sequel was released on March 24, 2021, after its predecessor created a path for it.

Kong: Skull Island Locations

Kong: Skull Island was a visually stunning film that took movie-goers to the far-flung corners of the Earth. The production made use of an array of exotic and diverse locations, including Oahu and Queensland in Australia, as well as Vietnam. All of these locations provided a perfect backdrop for the action-packed adventure that unfolded onscreen.

Development began at Universal Pictures with the premise tabled as an origin story, but shortly after it shifted to Warner Bros. with the ambition of building a shared universe for both Godzilla and Kong. Principal photography started in October 2015 and concluded in March 2016.

Oahu is known for its beautiful landscapes, which feature lush rainforests and dramatic beaches that provided the perfect backdrop for Kong: Skull Island's intense fight scenes. Queensland offered viewers a breathtaking view of dense jungle and greenery. The historic city of Hanoi in Vietnam along with Ha Long Bay also provided a distinct sense of atmosphere and energy to what could otherwise have been a generic set piece.

A trip to the Kong: Skull Island filming locations would make for an amazing experience for any fan of the film or wanderlust who loves discovering new places. Hiking through tropical rainforests or taking a boat ride across Ha Long Bay are just some of the things to look forward to.

Whether you take in the sights from atop a mountain peak or from sea level, you can be sure to find something truly unique around every corner. A trip through these locations will not only bring about amazing memories but also serve as an opportunity to explore different cultures and customs. So if you're up for an unforgettable adventure, here is a rundown of some of the best scenes in Kong: Skull Island and where they were filmed.

Fun Fact:

The success of the film spawned a merchandise line, exclusively stocked by Walmart. Released in 2017, the collection consisted primarily of a large-scale Kong figure, a Jack Chapman wielding a missile launcher accessory, and two Halloween costumes, one traditional costume, and another inflatable version. On April 7, 2017, Legendary revealed a four-issue graphic novel series named Skull Island: The Birth of Kong. This series served as both a prequel and sequel to the film, with the story centering around Hasuton Brooks, an adult Monarch employee close to retirement in 2012 - who discovered that his missing son Aaron had led a secret mission to Skull Island in the mid-90s.

Plane crashing scene in Kong: Skull Island

Moreton Island, Queensland 4025, Australia

In 1944, a dogfight between American pilot Hank Marlow (Will Brittain) and Japanese pilot Gunpei Ikari (Miyavi) culminates in them parachuting onto an island in the South Pacific and engaging in close combat until it is cut short by a colossal ape.

Moreton Island is a stunning natural wonder just off the coast of Brisbane, Australia. Filled with crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical rainforests, it's an ideal destination for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone looking for an unforgettable getaway.

From kayaking and snorkeling to sandboarding and four-wheel driving, there are activities to suit any thrill-seeker. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Moreton Island promises something special for everyone.

Moreton Island is located just off the coast of Brisbane, Australia, and is easily reached by car or public transport. The most popular way to get to the island is via one of the many ferries that run daily from Holt Street Wharf in Brisbane City. The journey takes about an hour and a half.

Crew going on board a cargo ship scene in Kong: Skull Island

300 Midway St, Kapolei, HI 96707, United States

The soldiers, who have only one day left till their retirement from the army, complain that they need to go to the island. Mason Weaver (Brie Larson) arrives at the deck, but everybody is confused that the photographer is a woman. When Packard (Samuel L. Jackson) checks her documents, he remarks that such people were deprived of support during the war.

A set recreating the deck of a cargo ship was built at Kalaeloa Airport for the expedition. Kapolei is a vibrant city located in the west of Hawaii on Oahu’s leeward coast. It is known for its stunning views of the coastline, beautiful beaches, and abundance of outdoor activities.

Visitors can enjoy adventure-filled activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, and horseback riding. The city also has many shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

To get to 300 Midway St, Kapolei, the easiest way is by car. From Honolulu International Airport, take the H1 freeway Westbound and continue onto the H201 freeway towards Kapolei. Exit into Midway Street and follow it until you reach your destination.

If you're coming from Waikiki, take the H1 Eastbound and continue onto the H201 route. Once again, take the exit at Midway Street and follow it until you reach your destination.

Flying to Skull Island scene in Kong: Skull Island

Hạ Long Bay, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam

Bill Randa (John Goodman) persuades Lieutenant Colonel Preston Packard, Captain James Conrad (Tom Hiddleston), a British Army officer and tracker, and Mason Weaver, a war protest photographer, to assist him. After braving an immense storm, the team gets a glimpse of the spectacular skyline of Skull Island.

Hạ Long Bay is one of the most beautiful destinations in Vietnam. Located on the northeast coast of the country, just south of the Chinese border, this stunning bay is composed of over 1,969 limestone monolithic islands and islets. These incredible rock formations are scattered along a 120-kilometer coastline, creating an amazing sight that must be seen to be believed!

Hạ Long Bay is easy to access from Thành phố Hạ Long. Taking a bus or taxi from the city center, which takes around two hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops, will get you there. You can also take a train from downtown, although this may take longer since the railway doesn’t go all the way. Alternatively, hire a car or motorcycle from one of many rental companies in Hạ Long City and make the journey in your own time.

Arrival at Skull Island scene in Kong: Skull Island

Tân Hoá, Quang Binh, Vietnam

When Packard’s crew arrives at Skull Island, they start dropping seismic explosives created by Randa's (John Goodman) scientist Houston Brooks (Corey Hawkins), in order to map the island and confirm Brooks' Hollow Earth hypothesis. The unit is then set upon by Kong, causing the survivors to escape in two different directions.

One group includes Conrad, Weaver, Nieves (John Ortiz), and some of the soldiers, and another with just Randa and the rest of the troops. Packard searches for Major Jack Chapman's transport chopper in order to obtain its weaponry and use it to put an end to Kong's rampage.

Tân Hoá in Quang Binh is a beautiful city located in the central region of Vietnam. It has long been praised for its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and abundance of tourist attractions. Some of its best destinations include the iconic Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and its impressive caves, the nearby river hills of Son Doong Cave and Dark Cave, Dà Nhựng Beach, and Chùa Hang Temple. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, kayaking, swimming and even parasailing.

To get to Tân Hoá, Quang Binh, Dong Hoi Airport, located just 30 minutes away by car, is the nearest airport. There are direct flights from Hanoi and Saigon to Dong Hoi daily. From the airport, you can take a public bus or taxi to get to Tân Hoá.

If traveling by car, the country's main highways will lead you directly to the city. Alternatively, visitors can also take a train or boat ride for an even more exciting journey!

The graveyard scene in Kong: Skull Island

Kualoa Ranch, Kaneohe, HI 96744, United States

Marlow (John C. Reilly) guides them through an ancient graveyard of dinosaurs and the corpses of Kong's family members. A Skullcrawler, which was responsible for Chapman's (Toby Kebbell) death, then launches an attack on the group. It kills Randa and several others before Weaver sets off an explosive gas that destroys it.

Kualoa Ranch in Oahu is a stunning property offering views of the majestic island of Oahu. With over 4,000 acres of lush tropical land, this nature preserve and outdoor activity destination provides an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Visitors can explore the untouched beauty of the ranch through activities such as horseback riding, ATV tours, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or simply taking a stroll along one of its many trails leading to beaches, waterfalls, and jungle valleys. The ranch also served as a filming location for some Hollywood movies such as Jurassic Park and Pearl Harbor.

To get to 49-560 Kamehameha Hwy in Kaneohe, you can take either public transportation or a car. Public transportation options include TheBus or TheHandi-Van. You can plan your trip using the online journey planner provided by TheBus.

Finding out about Chapman’s death scene in Kong: Skull Island

Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA

Upon learning of Chapman's demise, Packard is determined to revenge by killing Kong. Marlow and Brooks (Corey Hawkins) warn him that this would result in the Skullcrawlers running amok, but Packard doesn't listen and carries out his plan for vengeance.

He marches off with his crew to collect weapons from Chapman's helicopter and prepare a trap for Kong at a nearby lake. The rest of the group head back to the boat as Packard carries out his plan for vengeance.

The Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve is a beautiful location found within the Koolau mountain range on Oahu. Covering over 8,700 acres, it offers hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities to explore the diverse wildlife and incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

The trails take you through lush rainforests, past clear streams and tall waterfalls, giving you an up-close view of nature at its best. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching, fishing, hunting, and horseback riding in the reserve.

From Honolulu, take H-1 WESTBOUND and continue onto the Likelike Highway. Take Exit 11A to Pali Highway and then continue onto Kamehameha Highway. Follow this road until you reach Hawaii Kai Drive. Take a left here and follow it towards Kalanianaole Highway. Keep going straight until you come across the entrance to Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline on your right. Take a right here and drive along Kalaniana’s Pali highway until you get to the Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve entrance – there's plenty of parking available at the parking lot by the entrance.

Conclusion

Kong: Skull Island is an action-packed adventure filled with spectacular scenery and unique creatures. Filmed on four distinct islands across the South Pacific, including Vietnam and Hawaii, the film takes viewers on a thrilling journey to Skull Island. The tropical forests, mysterious ruins, and treacherous caves of this remote paradise all contribute to the movie's captivating visuals.

As the characters battle giant apes, giant spiders, and hordes of other monsters, Kong: Skull Island builds to an epic conclusion that will leave viewers in awe. With its powerful mix of breathtaking visuals and explosive action sequences, Kong: Skull Island is sure to thrill audiences for years to come.

This movie blends together a strong cast and cutting-edge special effects to give a new spin on the classic action-adventure genre. While the plot is fairly typical for this type of film, all of its parts come together nicely to create an enjoyable viewing experience.