The 2025 live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch is all set to serve nostalgia, Hawaiian sunshine, and science fiction on the big screen. Whether you’re a Lilo & Stitch fan or are new to their world, the sci-fi meets surf screenplay promises to captivate your attention — think alien mischief, family drama, and surreal island shots! Shot entirely in Hawaii’s O’ahu Island, the film endeavours to take viewers along Waikiki Beach, Haleiwa, and beyond. In this story, discover all the tropical filming locations of Lilo & Stitch that you can visit in real life.
Cast, plot, and trailer
The plot is simple yet impactful — a young girl, ‘Lilo’, mistakenly adopts an alien, thinking it’s a dog. The alien, originally engineered to be a force of destruction, harbours an unlikely bond with the Hawaiian girl, learning the concept of family and togetherness.
The film features Maia Kealoha as Lilo Pelekai, Chris Sanders as the voice of Stitch, Sydney Elizebeth Agudong as Nani Pelekai, Zach Galifianakis as Dr Jumba Jookiba, Courtney B Vance as Cobra Bubbles, Hannah Waddingham, Kaipo Dudoit as David Kawena, Tia Carrere as Mrs Kekoa, Amy Hill as Tūtū, and Jason Scott Lee as a lūʻau manager.
The film released in theatres on May 23, 2025.
Lilo & Stitch (2025): Rounding up the Hawaiian filming locations
Diamond Head State Monument, O’ahu
With a range of shots in the trailer, O’ahu has emerged as one of the major filming locations of Lilo & Stitch. The duo can be seen driving along the famed Diamond Head State Monument on Kalanianaole Highway.
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, the Diamond Head State Monument should be on your itinerary. This iconic volcanic crater stages a challenging hiking trail, delighting with surreal coastal views from the summit.
Nearby attractions: Diamond Head Beach Park (2.09 km away), Honolulu Zoo (2.7 km away), the Waikīkī Aquarium (3.5 km away), and Kapiʻolani Regional Park (3.5 km away).
Address: Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA
Haleiwa, O’ahu
The film was also shot in the historic surf town of Haleiwa, located on O’ahu’s North Shore. Beyond beautiful coastlines (see Haleiwa Beach Park, Ali’i Beach Park, Pua’ena Point, and Kaiaka Bay Beach Park!), Haleiwa also houses art galleries, plantation-era buildings, chic cafes, and boutiques.
Nearby attractions: Laniakea Beach (3.3 km away), Waimea Bay (6.6 km away), and Shark’s Cove (10.3 km away).
Address: While the town does not have a specific address, it is generally referred to as the area around Haleiwa Beach Park, located at 66-167 Haleiwa Road, Haleiwa, Hawaii 96712
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Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, O’ahu
The world-famous Waikiki Beach makes a splash in the trailer, right before the character Pleakly enters the frame. Located in Honolulu’s southeastern region, this beach delights with soft white sands, turquoise waters, and views of Diamond Head. It is also touted as the birthplace of modern surfing.
Apart from Lilo & Stitch, Waikiki Beach has made a cameo in several Hollywood films, including Forgetting Sarah Marshall, 50 First Dates (2004), and Pearl Harbor.
Nearby attractions: Waikiki Aquarium (1.77 km away), Sans Souci Beach (2.09 km away), Iolani Palace (6.27 km away), and Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (17.7 km away).
Address: Kalakaua Avenue Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Makaha Beach, O’ahu
Touted for its powerful waves (that can rise to 25 feet during the winter), the Hawaiian temple Kāne’āki Heiau, and local traditions, Makaha Beach also featured in Lilo & Stitch.
Nearby attractions: Makaha Beach Park (1.9 km away), Pōkaʻī Bay Beach Park (4 km away), Waianae Farmers Market (4.8 km away), and Kaʻena Point Trail (12.2 km away).
Address: 84-369 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792, United States
If a Hawaiian holiday across Lilo & Stitch’s filming locations is on your bucket list, here are some O’ahu restaurants that ought to be on your itinerary:
- Leonard’s Bakery — for malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts)
- Senia, Honolulu — for fine dining and theatrical dishes
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- Tchin Tchin — for innovative cocktails and finger food
- The Hibachi — for flavourful Hawaiian poke
- Podmore — for top-tier cocktails in a luxe setting
- Hawaiian Aroma Cafe — for wholesome food and some of the best pina coladas on the island!
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How to reach
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu is the nearest, about 18 km away. Within O’ahu, you can travel comfortably via various options such as renting a car or bike, using public transport such as TheBus or the Waikiki Trolley, or booking a cab using Uber or Lyft.
(Feature Image Credit: IMDb)
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