Where was 50 First Dates filmed. What are the most iconic locations from the movie. How can you visit the filming sites of 50 First Dates in Hawaii. Discover the breathtaking scenery and romantic spots that brought this beloved rom-com to life.
The Romantic Backdrop: Hawaii’s Role in 50 First Dates
Released in 2004, “50 First Dates” captivated audiences with its unique premise and stunning Hawaiian scenery. This romantic comedy, starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, tells the story of Henry, a marine biologist, who falls in love with Lucy, a woman with anterograde amnesia. The film’s plot unfolds against the backdrop of Oahu’s picturesque landscapes, making the island itself a character in this heartwarming tale.
The choice to film in Hawaii was not just for aesthetic purposes; it played a crucial role in creating the perfect atmosphere for the story. The island’s natural beauty, from its lush valleys to its pristine beaches, perfectly complemented the film’s themes of love, perseverance, and new beginnings.
Why Hawaii Was the Perfect Setting
- Tropical paradise atmosphere enhances the romantic storyline
- Diverse landscapes offer a variety of stunning backdrops
- Island culture adds depth and uniqueness to the film’s setting
- Natural beauty of Hawaii mirrors the characters’ emotional journey
Waikane and Kaneohe Bay: The Heart of Lucy’s World
One of the most significant 50 First Dates filming locations is Waikane at Kaneohe Bay. This area serves as the setting for the Whitmore residence, Lucy’s family home. The exterior shots showcase the lush valley backdrop and eastern coastal scenery that make this part of Oahu so breathtaking.
Keen-eyed viewers might spot Chinaman’s Hat, a small offshore rock formation that has appeared in other productions like Magnum P.I. The nearby Waikane Pier, also featured in the TV series Lost, adds to the authentic Hawaiian feel of Lucy’s home environment.
Can visitors access these filming locations?
While the Waikane Pier is on private property, it can be viewed from the shoreline between Waiahole and Kualoa in Kaneohe Bay. This area offers visitors a chance to experience the same stunning views that served as the backdrop for many of Lucy and Henry’s interactions.
Kualoa Ranch: From Dinosaurs to Romance
Kualoa Ranch, specifically the Ka’a’awa Valley, is perhaps one of the most recognizable locations in “50 First Dates.” This area, often referred to as Jurassic Valley, has been featured in numerous blockbusters, including Jurassic Park, Kong: Skull Island, and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle.
In “50 First Dates,” Henry uses this dramatic landscape as a backdrop for his attempts to remind Lucy of their relationship and win her heart anew each day. The lush green mountains and expansive valleys create a romantic and unforgettable setting for these pivotal scenes.
What makes Kualoa Ranch a popular filming location?
- Diverse landscapes within a compact area
- Dramatic mountain ranges and valleys
- Easily accessible for film crews
- Versatile scenery that can represent various tropical locations
Today, Kualoa Ranch offers tours that showcase its rich cinematic history, allowing fans to stand in the same spots where their favorite movie scenes were filmed, including those from “50 First Dates.”
Dillingham Ranch: A Pivotal Moment in Lucy’s Story
Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Dillingham Ranch plays a crucial role in “50 First Dates” despite its brief appearance. This location serves as the setting for the flashback sequence where Lucy and her father crash into a tree, resulting in Lucy’s amnesia. The tree involved in this scene has since become known as the ’50 First Dates tree,’ adding to the ranch’s cinematic legacy.
Dillingham Ranch’s versatility as a filming location is evident in its appearances in other productions such as Jurassic Park III, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, Lost, and Hawaii Five-0. Its wide-open spaces and scenic beauty make it ideal for various types of scenes, from action sequences to emotional moments.
What activities can visitors enjoy at Dillingham Ranch?
While primarily known for its appearances in films and TV shows, Dillingham Ranch offers visitors several activities to enjoy the natural beauty of the area:
- Horseback riding
- Surfing
- Parasailing
- Hiking
These activities allow fans of “50 First Dates” to immerse themselves in the same landscapes that served as the backdrop for Lucy and Henry’s story.
Makapuu Lighthouse: A Beacon of Romance
The historic Makapuu Point Lighthouse, located on the easternmost point of Oahu, features in one of the film’s most romantic sequences. As part of a montage showing Henry and Lucy’s many “first kisses,” this picturesque location adds a touch of magic to their love story.
Accessible via a hiking trail, the Makapuu Lighthouse offers visitors breathtaking ocean views and panoramic vistas of Makapuu and Waimanalo Bay. This spot not only served as a romantic backdrop for the film but continues to enchant visitors with its natural beauty.
What makes the Makapuu Lighthouse trail special?
- Stunning 360-degree views of the coastline
- Opportunities for whale watching (seasonal)
- Relatively easy hike suitable for most fitness levels
- Historic significance of the lighthouse itself
Hiking to the Makapuu Lighthouse allows fans to recreate the romantic atmosphere of the film while enjoying one of Oahu’s most scenic trails.
Halona Blowhole: Nature’s Dramatic Stage
The Halona Blowhole, located just off Hanauma Bay at Halona Point, is a natural wonder that adds a touch of drama to “50 First Dates.” This geological formation, which can spray ocean water up to thirty feet in the air, appears in two significant scenes in the film.
First, it serves as the backdrop when Henry is knocked unconscious while playing golf and dreams of Lucy. Later, it reappears during the romantic montage sequence. The powerful ocean waves crashing against the rocky shore create a visually striking and emotionally charged setting.
Is the Halona Blowhole safe to visit?
While the Halona Blowhole is a popular tourist destination, visitors should exercise caution:
- Stay behind safety barriers at all times
- Never attempt to approach the blowhole closely
- Be aware of sudden large waves, especially during high surf
- Enjoy the view from designated observation points
The area around the blowhole offers spectacular views of the coastline and is an excellent spot for photography, allowing visitors to capture the same dramatic scenery featured in the film.
Sea Life Park: Where Romance Meets Marine Biology
Sea Life Park in Waimanalo plays a significant role in “50 First Dates” as the workplace of Henry, the marine biologist protagonist. This real-life marine mammal park and wildlife sanctuary brings authenticity to the film’s portrayal of Henry’s profession and his interactions with various sea creatures.
In the movie, viewers see Henry working with penguins, dolphins, and walruses, all of which are actual residents of Sea Life Park. This integration of a real wildlife sanctuary into the film’s narrative adds depth to Henry’s character and provides a unique backdrop for several key scenes.
What can visitors experience at Sea Life Park?
Sea Life Park offers a range of experiences that allow visitors to connect with marine life, much like Henry does in the film:
- Dolphin encounters and shows
- Sea lion presentations
- Shark encounters
- Hawaiian reef aquarium
- Conservation and education programs
Visiting Sea Life Park allows fans of “50 First Dates” to step into Henry’s world and gain a deeper appreciation for the marine life that plays such an important role in the film’s setting.
The Impact of 50 First Dates on Hawaii’s Film Tourism
The release of “50 First Dates” in 2004 had a significant impact on Hawaii’s film tourism industry. The movie’s portrayal of Oahu’s stunning landscapes and unique locations sparked interest among viewers, many of whom were inspired to visit the island and experience these beautiful settings firsthand.
This phenomenon, often referred to as “set-jetting,” has become increasingly common as films and TV shows showcase picturesque locations around the world. In the case of “50 First Dates,” the film not only highlighted well-known tourist spots but also brought attention to lesser-known areas of Oahu.
How has 50 First Dates influenced Hawaii’s tourism?
- Increased interest in specific locations featured in the film
- Boosted popularity of movie location tours on Oahu
- Enhanced Hawaii’s reputation as a romantic destination
- Contributed to the overall growth of Hawaii’s film tourism sector
Many of the locations featured in “50 First Dates” have seen an increase in visitors since the film’s release, with some even offering specialized tours or experiences related to the movie.
Beyond the Scenery: The Cultural Significance of 50 First Dates’ Locations
While “50 First Dates” primarily uses Hawaii as a beautiful backdrop for its romantic story, many of the filming locations hold significant cultural and historical importance to the Hawaiian people. Understanding this deeper context can enrich the viewing experience and provide a more comprehensive appreciation of the film’s setting.
What cultural significance do some of these locations hold?
- Kualoa Ranch: Considered one of the most sacred places on Oahu, with a history dating back to ancient Hawaiian times
- Makapuu Lighthouse: Built in 1909, it represents Hawaii’s maritime history and its strategic importance in the Pacific
- Waikane area: Home to traditional Hawaiian fishponds and agricultural lands
- Halona Blowhole: Part of the Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline, an area rich in Hawaiian legends and cultural significance
By recognizing the cultural importance of these locations, viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the film’s setting and the rich heritage of Hawaii that extends far beyond its scenic beauty.
The Legacy of 50 First Dates in Hawaiian Cinema
“50 First Dates” is part of a long tradition of films shot in Hawaii, contributing to the islands’ reputation as a prime location for Hollywood productions. The success of the film not only showcased Hawaii’s natural beauty but also demonstrated the versatility of its landscapes for various types of stories.
Since the release of “50 First Dates,” Hawaii has continued to attract major film and television productions, solidifying its status as a desirable filming destination. This ongoing relationship between Hollywood and Hawaii has had significant economic and cultural impacts on the islands.
How has 50 First Dates influenced filmmaking in Hawaii?
- Showcased the diversity of Oahu’s landscapes for different scene types
- Demonstrated how Hawaiian locations can be integrated into contemporary stories
- Helped establish and promote film-friendly policies and infrastructure in Hawaii
- Inspired other romantic comedies and dramas to utilize Hawaiian settings
The legacy of “50 First Dates” in Hawaiian cinema extends beyond its immediate success, contributing to a broader narrative of Hawaii as a versatile and beautiful filming location capable of supporting various genres and storytelling styles.
Preserving the Magic: Conservation Efforts at 50 First Dates Locations
The popularity of “50 First Dates” and the subsequent increase in tourism to its filming locations have highlighted the importance of conservation efforts to preserve these beautiful areas. Many of the sites featured in the film are not just scenic backdrops but also important ecological and cultural resources that require protection and careful management.
Various organizations and government agencies in Hawaii are working to balance the demands of tourism and film production with the need to preserve these natural and cultural treasures for future generations. These efforts ensure that the magic captured in “50 First Dates” can be experienced by visitors for years to come.
What conservation efforts are in place at these locations?
- Kualoa Ranch: Implementing sustainable tourism practices and preserving native Hawaiian plants and wildlife
- Sea Life Park: Focusing on marine conservation and education programs
- Makapuu Lighthouse area: Trail maintenance and native plant restoration projects
- Waikane and Kaneohe Bay: Efforts to protect coral reefs and maintain water quality
By supporting these conservation initiatives, fans of “50 First Dates” can help ensure that the beautiful locations featured in the film remain pristine and accessible for future visitors and productions.
Planning Your Own 50 First Dates Adventure in Hawaii
For fans of “50 First Dates” who dream of experiencing the film’s romantic locations firsthand, planning a trip to Oahu can turn this dream into reality. Visiting the various filming sites offers not only a chance to relive favorite movie moments but also to discover the natural beauty and rich culture of Hawaii that extends beyond the silver screen.
When planning your “50 First Dates” inspired adventure, it’s important to approach these locations with respect for both the environment and local communities. Many of these sites are not just tourist attractions but are also important to Hawaiian culture and ecology.
How can fans respectfully visit 50 First Dates filming locations?
- Research and book guided tours that specialize in movie locations
- Follow all posted rules and guidelines at each site
- Support local businesses and communities during your visit
- Learn about the cultural and ecological significance of each location
- Practice responsible tourism by minimizing your environmental impact
By thoughtfully planning your visit, you can create your own romantic Hawaiian adventure while also contributing positively to the preservation of these beautiful locations for future generations to enjoy.
50 First Dates Filming Locations (2004)
50 First Dates is a 2004 romantic comedy that was filmed in Hawaii. The story takes place on the island of Oahu, so the audience is treated to some truly epic 50 First Dates filming locations. Here, Henry (Adam Sandler), a marine biologist who’s far more terrified of commitment than he is of sharks, meets the beautiful Lucy (Drew Barrymore) at the Hukilau Café – where he finds her eating waffles every single morning. But Lucy suffers from an ‘anterograde amnesia’, which means the entire memory of her day ‘resets’ after every night’s sleep – leading her to live the same day on repeat. This, of course, proves a challenge for Henry when he starts to fall in love with her.
This wasn’t the first time Sandler and Barrymore coupled up for the big screen, nor was it their last. 1998’s The Wedding Singer was an instant classic, while 2014’s Blended completed their anthological rom-com trilogy.
Let it be said, though, that 50 First Dates is no classic, nor does it hold a candle to the pair’s first outing. However, with the film having been shot in Hawaii, it does boast a wealth of filming locations that are perhaps the most romantic element of the film. Let’s dive in…
50 First Dates on Amazon Prime
Waikane – Kanehoe Bay – Oahu
There are many locations that make a number of appearances throughout the film. The first is Waikane at Kanehoe Bay, which serves as the setting for Lucy’s family home, the Whitmore residence. Some interior shots were filmed in Kualoa Ranch and LA, but the exterior ones, including the lush valley backdrop and the eastern coastal scenery are, of course, Hawaii. You’ll even see the small offshore rock formation Chinaman’s Hat from time to time, which has also appeared in Magnum P.I. You’ll see Waikane Pier too – seen in Lost – as it’s just a stone’s throw from the Whitmore residence.
The pier is on private property, but it can be seen from the shoreline between Kaneohe Bay’s Waiahole and Kualoa.
Ka’a’awa Valley – Kualoa Ranch
Ka’a’awa Valley is more famously known as Jurassic Valley, and if you’re a fan of movies that are filmed in Hawaii, you’ll recognize those dramatic green mountains in the background from movies such as Jurassic Park, Kong: Skull Island, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and Jurassic World. You won’t find any prehistoric monsters this time around, though – only Adam Sandler. Henry uses the location to try to remind Lucy who he is (again and again) and win over her heart (again and again). Kualoa Ranch is, to no surprise, the best 50 First Dates filming location, as it showcases all the blockbusters filmed there.
Dillingham Ranch – Waialua
Dillingham Ranch is located on the North Shore of Oahu and has appeared in Jurassic Park III, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, Lost and Hawaii Five-0, used mostly for major scenes involving planes, action sequences and dinosaurs.
In 50 First Dates, however, it serves a flashback sequence in which Lucy and her father crash into a tree, which results in Lucy’s amnesia. But while the ranch appears only twice, it is pretty memorable, and the tree they crash into has since become known as the ‘50 First Dates tree’. The ranch offers horseback riding, surfing, parasailing and hiking opportunities.
Makapuu Lighthouse – Makapuu Point, Kaneohe
It won’t surprise you to learn that there’s a montage sequence in the film – it’s a must for any rom-com. This one sees Henry and Lucy share many “first kisses” at a number of different locations, one of which includes the historic Makapuu Point Lighthouse on the easternmost point of Oahu (which can also be seen in Magnum P.I.). You can reach it by hiking trail, and once at the top you’ll be overwhelmed with truly unbeatable ocean views as well as views of Makapuu and Waimanalo Bay. There are also whale-spotting opportunities here depending on the time of year.
Halona Blowhole – Hanauma Bay
Credit Jason Barles
Halona Blowhole is located just off Hanauma Bay at Halona Point. The blowhole sprays ocean water up to thirty feet in the air, making this a geological wonder and naturally a tourist hotspot. It’s also yet another location more recently seen in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, but in 50 First Dates, it is, of course, used for more romantic purposes. First, when Henry is knocked unconscious while playing golf and dreams of Lucy, and again during the montage sequence later in the film. This rocky setting that’s constantly thrashed with ocean water is one of the more unique 50 First Dates filming locations.
Sea Life Park – Waimanalo
There might not be any dinosaurs in this film, but there’s plenty in the way of marine life such as penguins, dolphins and walruses. And you’ll be delighted to know that the Sea Life Park where Henry works in the film is as real as the animals, and can be found in Waimanalo, not too far from Makapuu Point.
The sanctuary doesn’t just boast beautiful marine life, though – you can also enjoy the facility’s mountainous backdrop and oceanic foreground. Sea Life Park makes a few appearances in the film, however, interior shots of the park’s aquarium were filmed out of Six Flags in California.
50 First Dates isn’t the only romantic comedy to have been filmed in Hawaii – just check out our article on Forgetting Sarah Marshall. A rom-com might not seem like the kind of film to make the most out of a location’s more epic scenery, but 50 First Dates does a great job of not only putting Hawaii’s more intimate settings on full display, but its majestic ones too.
50 First Dates on Amazon Prime
Dan Roberts
Dan is a freelance writer from the UK who works for a number of online publications. He’s also working on a science fiction novel, and believes the impression Jurassic Park made on him as a child – both the Spielberg film and the book by Michael Crichton – to be the source of his passion to write.
He previously critiqued theatrical releases for his local radio station, while his blog ‘Curious Rookie’ remains his platform for sharing film, travel and book reviews. Dan has also visited some of the most iconic film locations around the world, and his favorite destination is the island of Kauai in Hawaii.
Adam Sandler & Drew Barrymore Make Their Own 50 First Dates Reboot Set In 2020
By
Tom Chatalbash
Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, who starred in the romantic comedy 50 First Dates, have reunited to make their own reboot set in 2020.
Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore have reunited to make a 2020 reboot of 50 First Dates.
50 First Dates, which was released in 2004, was a sizable hit for Sandler, grossing $198 million worldwide against a budget of $75 million. In fact, in the years following its release, the film has come to be regarded as one of Sandler’s best movies. Barrymore was last seen in Netflix’s beloved comedy series, Santa Clarita Diet, which was canceled after season 3. In contrast, Sandler was last seen in Uncut Gems, where the actor received glowing reviews for his performance.
50 First Dates followed a veterinarian named Henry Roth (Adam Sandler), who meets a young woman named Lucy Whitmore (Drew Barrymore), and finds out she has short-term memory loss and doesn’t remember him the next day. The romantic comedy, which was directed by Peter Segal, starred Sandler, Barrymore, Rob Schneider, Sean Astin, Dan Aykroyd, Lusia Strus, Amy Hill, Allen Covert, Maya Rudolph, and Blake Clark. Barrymore and Sandler have been known to be close friends outside of their films together, and Sandler dropped by The Drew Barrymore Show to help bring a reboot of the movie to life, now set in 2020.
Related: Adam Sandler’s Career Is Underrated
In a new video released by The Drew Barrymore Show, Adam Sandler drops by to help Drew Barrymore create a reboot of 50 First Dates, now set in the year 2020. The video finds Barrymore’s Lucy waking up and putting in a videotape of Sandler’s Henry catching her up on her condition and what it’s like living in 2020, Netflix, and all. The clip even has a special appearance from Covert’s character Tom from the film, more commonly known as “Ten Second Tom.” The full video is below.
Sandler and Barrymore first starred together in the romantic comedy The Wedding Singer. Their first pairing remains Sandler’s highest-rated comedy on Rotten Tomatoes, currently resting at a 67 percent critical rating. The duo’s chemistry would carry through their next two collaborations, which would, of course, include 50 First Dates and 2014’s Blended, which grossed $127 million globally.
Barrymore and Sandler have had terrific chemistry in all of their films together, playing off one another wonderfully, oozing easygoing chemistry that is infectious and endearing.
Seeing the pair reboot their arguably best film together, minus one glaring racial caricature, is a real delight, the two falling back into their roles effortlessly as they tap into the nostalgia of the early 2000s. Fans of the romantic comedy will surely love this update of the film and most likely will make them want to revisit 50 First Dates, which is currently streaming on Hulu and Amazon Prime at this time.
More: Why Adam Sandler’s Netflix Movies Are So Popular (Despite Being Bad)
Source: The Drew Barrymore Show
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Film 8 first dates (Russia, 2012) watch online – Afisha-Kino ,
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Films about true love
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Fate is a capricious girl. Nikita and Vera know nothing about each other. They have never met, each of the characters life goes on as usual. They have only one thing in common: a place to celebrate their personal victories. After that, the strangest thing began.
Vera has built a successful career as a TV presenter, despite her youth, she starred in a famous talk show. In addition, the girl is preparing for the most significant event in her life: a wedding with a successful tennis player.
Nikita, in turn, also achieved recognition in his deeds. He works as a highly sought-after veterinarian, and he also plans to marry. He recently proposed to the beautiful Ilona. The heroes were happy, enjoyed life, but then an unpredictable fate intervened.
One morning Nikita and Vera woke up in the same bed. Of course, the guys thought that this was some kind of mistake and the consequences of the last party.
Deciding to forget about everything, like a nightmare, the girl and the guy go in different directions. How surprised they are when everything repeats the next day! Time after time, the heroes wake up in the “House of your dreams”, located in the shopping center. Something mystical is trying to bring them together, destroying the old relationship. Or maybe it really is fate? In the end, Nikita and Vera realize that they can no longer live without each other. Once that happens, they stop living Groundhog Day over and over again and make a conscious choice to stay together.
Stanislav Novikova
A good movie about love.
I liked the film very much. The first time I watched it in the cinema, when the film was just released, it left me with a very positive impression! Good romantic comedy. Indeed, we now have very few such films. In my opinion, everything worked out
December 3, 2014
Dewassari Abuntu
I liked it
Yes, marriage is the most important step, guided by the heart, and we rarely listen to it.
I really liked the film. Good actors, dynamic, looks easy. The second time you will want to look not immediately, but you will. From the height of my age, I simply recommend creating such f 9 more often0499
July 4, 2013
Tatyanka
Very sad
But I really liked the film, but it’s very sad, it inspires despondency that people live not out of love for each other, but out of fear of changing something, So you can to live with busty Barnabas with a puffy face and an athlete obsessed with himself, And miss the most chapters
November 26, 2012 which Russian directors traditionally fails: it turns out either vulgarity, or just a bad stupid movie. And here everything worked out! Good actors, meet
October 20, 2012
Maxim
Mysticism and love are around again…
What are your impressions? She asked her husband: “Let’s watch a movie.” I turned it on, watched it, temporarily leaving for a sandwich, then for juice, in general, not completely .
