These documentaries about Hawaii show a captivating archipelago with its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history.
The islands, each possessing its unique charm, are more than just a tropical paradise; they are part of the enduring spirit of the Polynesian people and the amalgamation of diverse influences over centuries.
Documentaries About Hawaii
As a melting pot of traditions, Hawaii’s story unfolds in a captivating narrative of volcanic eruptions, ancient rituals, and a modern struggle to balance tradition with progress.
Documentaries about Hawaii give you a look into this enchanting world, exploring the islands’ geological wonders, cultural heritage, and the challenges faced by its inhabitants.
Earth’s Tropical Islands: Hawaii (2020)
Earth’s Tropical Islands is a TV mini-series by the BBC that explores three tropical islands around the world, with one episode, this one, based in Hawaii.
It explores the wildlife of the archipelago and gives a good insight into the biodiversity and beauty of the place. This is one of the best documentaries about Hawaii that explores the nature of the archipelago.
Hawaiian: The Legend of Eddie Aikau (2013)
Hawaiian: The Legend of Eddie Aikau explores the life and legacy of Eddie Aikau, a legendary Hawaiian surfer and lifeguard.
Eddie Aikau was known for his skill in big wave surfing and his dedication to saving lives as a lifeguard on the North Shore of Oahu. The documentary delves into his impact on the surfing community, his contributions to Hawaiian culture, and the circumstances surrounding his tragic disappearance at sea in 1978.
The film features interviews with friends, family, and fellow surfers who share insights into Eddie Aikau’s character and the cultural significance of his life.
Sons of Halawa (2015)
Sons of Halawa tells the story of Pilipo Solatorio, an elder native Hawaiian, and his efforts to pass on the traditions and cultural practices of his ancestors to the next generation, particularly his sons.
The documentary provides a glimpse into the life of Pilipo Solatorio, who resides in the remote Halawa Valley on the island of Molokai, Hawaii. The film explores the challenges faced by the Solatorio family in preserving their cultural heritage in the modern world.
If you’re interested in Hawaiian culture and the efforts to preserve indigenous practices, “Sons of Halawa” is one of the best documentaries about Hawaii for you to watch.
Kilauea: Hawaii on Fire (2019)
Kilauea: Hawaii on Fire follows scientists as they go to the Kilauea volcano to investigate the eruptions that took place in 2018 and an overall look at the volcano.
If you have any interest in volcanoes in Hawaii this makes one of the best documentaries about Hawaii for you to watch.
How America Stole The Land Of Hawaii (2019)
How America Stole The Land Of Hawaii focuses on the historical and political aspects of the annexation of Hawaii by the United States. The annexation of Hawaii is a complex historical event that took place in the late 19th century.
In 1893, a group of American and European businessmen, along with some members of the Hawaiian monarchy, overthrew Queen Liliuokalani in what is known as the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii.
Hawaii – The Stolen Paradise (2017)
Hawaii – The Stolen Paradise investigates the history of Hawaii, from its discovery by Polynesians to its annexation by the United States. It explores the impact of colonization on the indigenous Hawaiian population.
Nā Kamalei: The Men of Hula (2007)
Nā Kamalei: The Men of Hula provides an intimate look into the world of hula, a traditional Hawaiian dance form, and the men who practice it. The documentary follows the journey of legendary Hawaiian teacher Robert Cazimero and his all-male hula school, Hālau Nā Kamalei.
It showcases the dedication and passion of the men involved in the hula school and highlights the cultural significance of hula in preserving and perpetuating Hawaiian traditions.
Hawaii: A Voice For Sovereignty (2011)
Hawaii A Voice for Sovereignty is a documentary film by photojournalist Catherine Bauknight that explores the culture of the Native Hawaiians and their connection to the land.
At the forefront of the film are social, economic, and ecological issues that have developed in Hawai`i since the takeover by the U.S. in 1893, revealed in interviews with grassroots indigenous people and scholars such as author, Haunani-Kay Trask.
The documentary goal is to raise awareness of the issues faced by the Native Hawaiians, which threaten their ancient and environmentally sustainable culture.
Aloha Aina: The Awakening of Walter Ritte (2009)
Aloha Aina: The Awakening of Walter Ritte tells the story of Walter Ritte, a Native Hawaiian activist, and his efforts to protect the land and culture of Hawaii against modern development and environmental degradation.
Living on the Edge in Paradise (2016)
Living on the Edge in Paradise focuses on the environmental challenges faced by the people of Hawaii, including issues such as rising sea levels, pollution, and the impact of tourism on fragile ecosystems.
Witness the Volcanoes of Hawaii (2022)
Witness the Volcanoes of Hawaii is a National Geographic documentary that you can watch for free on YouTube.
It explores the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park where the Kīlauea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes are and shows the geology and wildlife of the area. This is one of the more recent documentaries about Hawaii that gives a really good look at some of the nature on Hawaii Island (the Big Island).
Hawaii – Islands of the Fire Goddess (1997)
Hawaii: Islands of the Fire Goddess explores the geological and cultural aspects of the Hawaiian Islands, focusing on the dynamic natural forces that have shaped the landscape and the unique indigenous culture of Hawaii.
It gives you a visually stunning journey through the islands, showcasing the volcanic activity that formed and continues to shape the archipelago.
No Room in Paradise (2016)
No Room in Paradise looks behind the beauty of Hawaii and into its modern homelessness crisis, which is the worst in the United States.
It focuses on homeless people on the streets of Honolulu and the problems of homelessness, especially among native Hawaiians.
No Room In Paradise (Trailer) from Collective Eye Films on Vimeo.
Wild Hawaii (2014)
Wild Hawaii is an excellent documentary by National Geographic that shows the wildlife and nature of Hawaii.
How The U.S. Conquered Hawaii & Made it 91% Empty (2023)
The title of this documentary says it all…
This is one of the more recent documentaries about Hawaii and gives a very detailed and informative look at how the United States conquered Hawaii.
Hawaii
From the rhythmic sway of hula dances to the towering waves of the North Shore, these films capture the essence of Hawaii that invites you to embark on a visual journey that goes beyond the postcard-perfect imagery, revealing the intricate layers that make the islands a unique and dynamic tapestry of life.
For more interesting watching have a look at the 15 best documentaries about Japan.
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