Where was Waterworld filmed?
1995
City Locations
Huntington Beach, Kawaihae, Santa Catalina Island
Location Types
Film Studio
Location Styles
Beachfront, Boat Style, Sail
About Waterworld
Waterworld is a post-apocalyptic action film from 1995, set in a future where the polar ice caps have melted, causing the sea level to rise a staggering 25,000 feet and submerging almost all of the land. The movie stars Kevin Costner as nameless antihero the Mariner, who sails the Earth in his trimaran. The Mariner is an outsider who is pursued by a group of pirates led by the evil Deacon. In his journey, the Mariner finds a young girl, Enola, who has a map tattooed on her back that leads to the mythical Dryland. The Mariner and Enola team up in order to find the Dryland and protect the map at all costs.
Waterworld was the most expensive movie ever made at the time and received mixed reviews from critics. However, the film became a cult classic over the years. An interesting fact about the movie is that it was filmed entirely on water. All of the sets and props were built on floating platforms, giving the movie an additional layer of authenticity. The movie also featured groundbreaking visual effects for its time, contributing to its success and placing it among one of the most influential science-fiction films of the 1990s.
Waterworld Locations
The 1995 epic Waterworld was filmed in a variety of stunning and iconic locations. The majority of scenes were shot in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Hawaii, in particular utilizing an artificial seawater enclosure. This same location was used for the film Titanic two years later. In addition, scenic Waipi’o Valley, which is known as The Valley of Kings, was used for the final scene and Los Angeles, Huntington Beach, Santa Catalina Island, and the Channel Islands of California were also utilized.
The backdrop of these regions provides breathtaking sights and sounds for any visitor. In Hawaii, one can find the sparkling ocean waters that surround the shores of the archipelago, the jagged mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, and luscious tropical foliage. Waipio Valley, meanwhile, is an awe-inspiring location filled with lush greenery and majestic cliffs that tower over the tranquil river below.
Touring these areas could provide a memorable and meaningful experience. From the emerald rainforest of Waipio Valley to the vibrant and mesmerizing shorelines of Hawaii, visitors can explore the breathtaking sceneries that were used as backdrops in the film. Moreover, they can imagine the cast and crew of the movie recreating the scenes that brought the beloved characters to life. With its natural beauty and memorable landmarks, a trip to the locations of Waterworld would definitely be worthwhile.
Open sea scene in Waterworld
Kawaihae Harbor, Hawaii 96743, USA
As the Smokers give chase, the protagonists manage to flee to the vast expanse of the open sea aboard the trimaran. Unfortunately, Helen's (Jeanne Tripplehorn) escape causes damage to the Mariner's (Kevin Costner) boat, leading to his frustration and refusal to take her to Dryland. In a fit of anger, he proceeds to cut both Helen's and Enola's hair as a form of punishment. However, despite this, he ultimately changes his mind and decides to bring them along on their journey to Dryland.
This scene was filmed in Kawaihae Harbor, a bustling port community located on the northwestern side of the island of Hawaiʻi. As a significant hub for maritime activities, it encompasses various facilities such as a fuel depot, shipping terminal, and even a military landing site. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Kohala Coast, Kawaihae Harbor presents breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
If you're traveling from the Hilo area, you’re looking at a drive of about one-and-a-half hours and 66 miles.
Tanker scene in Waterworld
Huntington Beach, California, USA
The Mariner seizes a Smoker's jet ski and pursues the Deacon (Dennis Hopper) on the remaining portion of the Exxon Valdez. The Deacon orders his crew to row the tanker after claiming to have deciphered the map on Enola's back. As the Smokers row below deck, the Mariner confronts the Deacon, demanding the return of Enola.
This scene was filmed at Huntington Beach, also known as "Surf City USA," a coastal gem located in Orange County, California. The city's long stretches of sandy beaches and crystal blue waters make it a popular destination for surfers, sunbathers, and beachgoers of all ages. But there's more to Huntington Beach than just its picturesque coastline. The city also boasts a lively downtown area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Visitors can explore the historic Main Street and its charming boutiques and cafes, or catch a live concert or show at the iconic Huntington Beach Pier.
If you're looking to visit the sunny shores of Huntington Beach, you'll find a variety of transportation options to suit your needs. If you're flying in from out of town, you'll be landing at John Wayne Airport in nearby Santa Ana. From there, you can take a shuttle or taxi to Huntington Beach. Those driving in will find the beach city conveniently located off the Pacific Coast Highway. Simply follow the signs for Huntington Beach or use your GPS for turn-by-turn directions.
Explosion scene in Waterworld
Mojave Airport, 1434 Flight Line, Mojave, CA 93501, United States
To enforce his demand, the Mariner threatens to ignite the oil reserves, which would destroy the ship. Anticipating a bluff, the Deacon confronts the Mariner. To his astonishment, the Mariner defies expectations by igniting a flare and dropping it into the oil reservoir.
This scene was filmed at Mojave Air & Space Port in California, a renowned facility for aviation and aerospace activities. Established in 1935, the airport has a rich history and continues to play a significant role in the industry. Over the years, Mojave Air & Space Port has witnessed groundbreaking advancements in aerospace technology and has served as a testing ground for many successful projects.
To get to this location, you’ll need to head north from downtown LA for the best part of 100 miles. The journey should take approximately two hours.
Final scene in Waterworld
Waipi'o Valley, Honokaa, HI 96727, United States
After Gregor (Michael Jeter) deciphers Enola's tattoo as reversed coordinates, they embark on a journey with the Mariner , Atoll Enforcer (R. D. Call), Helen, and Enola. Together, they uncover Dryland atop Mount Everest, a lush paradise teeming with wildlife. They stumble upon a hut where Enola's parents once resided. However, the Mariner, sensing he doesn't belong, constructs a new trimaran and bids farewell to Helen and Enola as he sets sail.
The final scene in Waterworld was filmed in Waipi'o Valley, which is located in the Hamakua District of the Big Island of Hawaiʻi and is a breathtaking destination known as the "Valley of the Kings." This stunning valley was once home to ancient Hawaiian kings and was densely populated. However, over time, it has transformed into a wilderness paradise. The name "Waipi'o" translates to "curved water" in the Hawaiian language, which perfectly describes the valley's natural beauty. Time and nature have carved a massive valley with towering cliffs adorned with deep greenery and cascading waterfalls. The valley floor is carpeted with lush vegetation, creating a picturesque landscape.
To get to Waipi'o Valley from the Big Island capital of Hilo, you’ll need to take a 50-mile journey northwest along the coast. The drive should take you around one hour and 10 minutes.
Conclusion
The science-fiction epic Waterworld was a groundbreaking movie in terms of its filming locations. The main filming took place in a massive artificial seawater enclosure in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Hawaii, while additional shots were filmed in Los Angeles, Huntington Beach, and Santa Catalina Island, as well as the Channel Islands of California. To wrap up the movie, the final scene was filmed in the breathtaking Waipi’o Valley on the Big Island, often referred to as The Valley of Kings.
The result of this diverse range of filming locations was a moving, futuristic story that took the viewer from serene beaches to vast underwater caverns. It provides a glimpse of a world where the polar ice-caps have melted, and the viewer is able to experience the journey of a mutated mariner as he fights starvation and outlaws, and reluctantly helps a woman and a young girl try to find dry land.
The locations used in Waterworld are nothing short of spectacular and are a testament to the film’s production values. If you get a chance to check any of them out in real life, it’ll be well worth your while.