Hawaii, with its stunning landscapes and serene beauty, often serves as a picturesque backdrop for films. However, beneath this idyllic exterior lies a world ripe for suspense, mystery, and intrigue. This curated list of ten thrillers set in Hawaii offers a unique blend of suspense and tropical allure, providing viewers with an escape into the darker side of paradise. Each film in this collection not only captures the essence of Hawaii but also delivers gripping narratives that keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997)
Description: While not exclusively set in Hawaii, the film's opening scenes are filmed there, setting the stage for the thrilling dinosaur adventure.
Fact: The film was the first to use CGI extensively for dinosaur sequences.


Blue Crush (2002)
Description: This sports drama turns into a thriller as the protagonist faces both physical and emotional challenges in the competitive world of surfing.
Fact: The film was inspired by a 1998 article in "Outside" magazine about female surfers in Hawaii.


The Big Bounce (2004)
Description: A drifter gets involved in a scheme involving a corrupt judge and a beautiful woman, set against the backdrop of Hawaii's beaches.
Fact: This is the second adaptation of Elmore Leonard's novel, with the first one released in


The Rundown (2003)
Description: A bounty hunter's mission in Hawaii turns into a thrilling adventure involving treasure hunting and local politics.
Fact: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's character was originally written for Arnold Schwarzenegger.


Snakes on a Plane (2006)
Description: A thriller with a twist, where a flight from Hawaii to Los Angeles becomes a nightmare when venomous snakes are released on board.
Fact: The film's title became an internet meme, significantly boosting its popularity.


The Perfect Getaway (2009)
Description: A honeymooning couple in Hawaii encounters a pair of suspicious hikers, leading to a suspenseful game of cat and mouse.
Fact: The film was shot on the island of Kauai, showcasing its lush landscapes.


The Descendants (2011)
Description: While not a traditional thriller, this film delves into family secrets and the complexities of land ownership in Hawaii, creating a tense atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot entirely in Hawaii, showcasing its natural beauty. George Clooney won a Golden Globe for his performance.


Point Break (2015)
Description: This remake of the 1991 classic features extreme sports and a thrilling chase, with scenes set in Hawaii's surfing paradise.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations around the world, including Hawaii, to capture the essence of extreme sports.


Hard Rain (1998)
Description: Although not set in Hawaii, the film's theme of a heist during a natural disaster mirrors the tension often found in Hawaii's storm scenarios.
Fact: The film was shot in a specially built water tank to simulate the flooding.


The Hurricane Heist (2018)
Description: Although not entirely set in Hawaii, the film's hurricane setting and themes of theft and survival echo the tropical storm scenarios often associated with Hawaii.
Fact: The movie was filmed in Bulgaria, but its plot involves a heist during a hurricane, reminiscent of Hawaii's weather events.
