- The Curse of the Jade Scorpion (2001)
- The Haunting of Molly Hartley (2008)
- The Curse of the Komodo (2004)
- The Haumana (2013)
- The Legend of Hallowaiian (2018)
- Kuleana (2017)
- The Ghost of Hanalei Plantation (2014)
- The Legend of the Hawaiian Volcano (2010)
- The Haunting of Kaimana (2016)
- The Haunting of the Hawaiian Hotel (2015)
When you think of Hawaii, images of sun-kissed beaches, lush landscapes, and the gentle strumming of ukuleles might come to mind. However, beneath this idyllic facade lies a rich tapestry of folklore and eerie tales that have inspired some truly spine-chilling horror films. This curated list dives into the darker side of the Aloha State, showcasing movies that blend the beauty of Hawaii with the macabre, offering a unique cinematic experience that will make you see paradise in a whole new light. Whether you're a fan of supernatural scares or psychological thrillers, these films will transport you to a Hawaii where the only thing more haunting than the scenery is the story.

The Curse of the Jade Scorpion (2001)
Description: Although not set in Hawaii, this Woody Allen film features a hypnotic curse that could be likened to the mystical elements often found in Hawaiian folklore.
Fact: The film was one of Allen's rare forays into the thriller genre, blending comedy with suspense.


The Haunting of Molly Hartley (2008)
Description: While not set in Hawaii, the film's themes of possession and supernatural occurrences resonate with the idea of dark forces in paradise, making it a fitting addition to this list.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be a direct-to-video release but was given a theatrical run.


The Curse of the Komodo (2004)
Description: Although not exclusively set in Hawaii, this creature feature involves a genetically altered Komodo dragon wreaking havoc on an island, which could be seen as a stand-in for Hawaii's lush landscapes.
Fact: The film was part of a series of low-budget creature features produced by The Asylum.


The Haumana (2013)
Description: A psychological thriller set in Hawaii, where a young woman's journey into hula dancing takes a dark turn, blending cultural elements with suspense and horror.
Fact: The film was directed by Keo Woolford, who also stars in it, bringing an insider's perspective to the Hawaiian cultural elements.


The Legend of Hallowaiian (2018)
Description: This animated film blends Hawaiian folklore with a spooky twist, telling the tale of a young boy who must save his town from an ancient spirit. It's a unique entry in the horror genre, showcasing the rich mythology of Hawaii.
Fact: The film was inspired by actual Hawaiian legends, and it features a voice cast including Vanessa Williams and Tia Carrere.


Kuleana (2017)
Description: While not a traditional horror film, "Kuleana" delves into the darker aspects of Hawaiian history with a crime-thriller edge, exploring themes of land rights and cultural identity, which can be quite unsettling.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in Hawaii, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.


The Ghost of Hanalei Plantation (2014)
Description: This film explores the supernatural side of Hawaii, focusing on a haunted plantation with a dark history, providing chills and thrills in a tropical setting.
Fact: The movie was filmed on the actual Hanalei Plantation, adding to its eerie authenticity.


The Legend of the Hawaiian Volcano (2010)
Description: This documentary-style film delves into the myths and legends surrounding Hawaii's active volcanoes, providing a chilling look at the natural and supernatural forces at play.
Fact: It features interviews with local experts and historians, giving an authentic insight into Hawaiian culture.


The Haunting of Kaimana (2016)
Description: A modern ghost story set in Hawaii, where a family moves into a seemingly perfect home only to discover it harbors dark secrets.
Fact: The film was shot in a real haunted house in Hawaii, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the scares.


The Haunting of the Hawaiian Hotel (2015)
Description: A group of friends on a vacation in Hawaii find themselves trapped in a haunted hotel, facing supernatural forces that threaten their lives.
Fact: The film was shot in an actual historic hotel in Hawaii, known for its ghost stories and eerie atmosphere.
