Jurassic Park filming locations on Kauaʻi

Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Falls) appears in the opening of Jurassic Park (1993). It is on private land and reachable only by helicopter. Wailua Falls, seen in the opening titles of the TV series Fantasy Island, is near Lihue and you can drive to it.

Waimea Canyon has been used for wide scenery in film and TV, but the two named above are the ones worth knowing. Jurassic Falls is the waterfall everyone asks about; it is private and requires a helicopter. Wailua Falls, 173 feet, is accessible by car on the far side of the island. That contrast — one flyable, one drivable — is worth making if you care about the filming locations.

The helicopter tours show Manawaiopuna Falls, and one of them lands in Olokele Canyon. No ground tour reaches it because no road does.

Book the helicopter that lands

Frequently asked questions

Can I see Jurassic Falls from the ground?

No. Manawaiopuna Falls is on private land and reachable only by helicopter. No rental car reaches it at any price.

Which helicopter sees Jurassic Falls?

Both helicopters show it. The waterfall safari ($336) flies over it; the landing helicopter ($369) flies over it and also lands in nearby Olokele Canyon.

Is Wailua Falls in Waimea Canyon?

No. Wailua Falls is near Lihue on the far side of the island and you can drive to it. It appears in Fantasy Island, not Jurassic Park.