For fans of police procedurals and breathtaking island scenery, the question of how many seasons Hawaii Five-0 lasted is a gateway into a decade-long journey across the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. The hit reboot, which reimagined the classic 1960s series, ran for exactly 10 seasons, spanning from 2010 to 2020. Over the course of 240 episodes, the show didn’t just tell stories of crime and camaraderie; it served as a high-definition love letter to the Island of Oahu and the broader state of Hawaii.
For travelers and enthusiasts of the show, these 10 seasons offer a comprehensive itinerary for exploring the Pacific Ocean’s most famous archipelago. From the bustling streets of Honolulu to the rugged, untamed cliffs of the North Shore, the filming locations have become pilgrimage sites for visitors seeking to experience the “Five-0” lifestyle.
The Heart of the Action: Honolulu and South Oahu
The majority of the series takes place in and around Honolulu, the vibrant capital city. Throughout all 10 seasons, the city’s skyline and historic landmarks provided the backdrop for the team’s high-stakes missions.
The Headquarters: Aliiolani Hale and Iolani Palace
One of the most recognizable locations in the entire series is the Five-0 headquarters. While the show identifies the building as the team’s base of operations, the exterior shots actually feature Aliiolani Hale. Located in downtown Honolulu, this stunning example of 19th-century architecture currently houses the Hawaii State Supreme Court. Directly across the street sits Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil. This site is a must-visit for travelers interested in the history of the Kingdom of Hawaii, offering a glimpse into the lives of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani.
The King Kamehameha Statue
Standing proudly in front of Aliiolani Hale is the King Kamehameha Statue. This gold-leafed bronze monument is frequently seen in transition shots across all 10 seasons. For travelers, it is one of the most photographed spots in the city and serves as a central point for walking tours of the historic district.
Waikiki Beach and the Hilton Hawaiian Village
No mention of the show’s decade-long run is complete without Waikiki. This world-famous stretch of sand and surf appears in nearly every episode. The Hilton Hawaiian Village serves as a frequent filming site, particularly the Rainbow Tower and the Tropics Bar and Grill, where characters often met for a “longboard” or a sunset view. Visitors can walk the same sands where Steve McGarrett and Danny Williams had their famous “carguments.”
Coastal Landmarks and Naval Heritage
The 10 seasons of Hawaii Five-0 heavily emphasized the military background of its lead character, Steve McGarrett, a Navy SEAL. This narrative choice brought several significant historical and military sites into the spotlight, making them essential stops for any traveler.
Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
Throughout the series, Pearl Harbor played a pivotal role, especially in episodes exploring the McGarrett family history. Travelers can visit the USS Arizona Memorial to pay their respects and learn about the events of December 7, 1941. The site is a powerful reminder of the island’s significance in global history. Nearby, the USS Missouri, or “Mighty Mo,” where the Japanese surrender was signed, also appeared in several episodes as a dramatic backdrop for action sequences.
The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
Located within the Punchbowl Crater, the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific is a place of profound serenity and honor. The show frequently filmed scenes here, highlighting the beautiful mosaics and the sweeping views of Honolulu. It is a site that offers both historical insight and one of the best panoramic vistas on the Island of Oahu.
The Bayer Estate: Steve McGarrett’s House
One of the most searched locations by fans is the McGarrett house. In reality, this is the Bayer Estate, a historic beachside home located in Aina Haina, East Honolulu. While it is a private residence often used for weddings and events, travelers can drive past the area to see the iconic backyard where the team often gathered for shrimp boils and celebrations at the end of an episode.
The Untamed Beauty of the North Shore and Windward Coast
While the city of Honolulu provided the urban grit, the rural parts of Oahu showcased the breathtaking natural beauty that kept viewers tuned in for 10 seasons.
Kualoa Ranch: The Backlot of Hawaii
Kualoa Ranch is perhaps the most versatile filming location in the world. Seen in everything from Jurassic Park to LOST, it featured prominently in Hawaii Five-0 as a location for jungle chases, hidden bunkers, and tactical standoffs. Travelers can take guided tours of the Ka’a’awa Valley, where many of the show’s most intense action scenes were filmed. The emerald-green mountains and dramatic ridges are even more impressive in person than they are on screen.
Haleiwa and the North Shore Surf Culture
The North Shore represents a different pace of life, and the show captured this through the character of Kono Kalakaua, a former professional surfer. The town of Haleiwa serves as the gateway to this region. Travelers can visit Waimea Bay, Banzai Pipeline, and Sunset Beach to witness the massive winter swells that are legendary in the surfing world.
The Byodo-In Temple
Located at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, the Byodo-In Temple is a stunning replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. It appeared in several episodes over the 10 seasons, often standing in for locations across Asia. It is a peaceful sanctuary where visitors can ring the sacred bell, feed the koi in the pond, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Cultural Immersion and Culinary Stops
A significant part of the appeal of Hawaii Five-0 was its inclusion of local culture and food. The characters were frequently seen eating at local “plate lunch” spots, which has encouraged many travelers to seek out these authentic Hawaiian flavors.
Rainbow Drive-In
The characters’ love for local food often brought them to the Rainbow Drive-In. A staple of the Kapahulu neighborhood since 1961, this eatery is famous for its “mix plate,” featuring barbecue beef, mahimahi, and fried chicken served with the quintessential two scoops of rice and macaroni salad. It is a genuine piece of Honolulu history that fans of the show can easily experience.
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck and Kamekona’s Shrimp
While “Kamekona’s Shrimp Truck” was a fictional business within the show, it was inspired by the real shrimp truck culture of the North Shore. Travelers heading to Kahuku will find Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, which offers a similar experience. The garlic shrimp is a local delicacy that has become a mandatory stop for anyone touring the island’s northern coastline.
Tantalus Lookout and Magic Island
For those looking for the perfect view, Tantalus Lookout (located at Pu’u Ualaka’a State Wayside) offers a sweeping perspective of Diamond Head and the entire city. Similarly, Magic Island at Ala Moana Beach Park was a frequent meeting spot for the Five-0 team. Both locations are excellent for travelers seeking a spot to watch the sunset or enjoy a picnic away from the more crowded areas of Waikiki Beach.
Planning Your Five-0 Inspired Adventure
Knowing how many seasons Hawaii Five-0 aired helps travelers realize just how much ground the show covered. To see even a fraction of these sites, a well-planned trip to Oahu is essential.
Best Time to Visit
To experience the lush landscapes seen in the series, visiting during the shoulder seasons—late spring (April to June) or early fall (September to November)—is ideal. The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner at popular landmarks like Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve or Diamond Head State Monument.
Transportation and Exploration
While Honolulu has a functional bus system known as TheBus, renting a car is the best way to reach the more remote filming locations on the North Shore or the Windward Coast. Driving along the Kamehameha Highway allows for spontaneous stops at lookout points like Makapuu Point Lighthouse or the white sands of Lanikai Beach in Kailua.
Respecting the Land and Culture
One of the core themes across all 10 seasons was the concept of “Ohana” (family) and “Malama Aina” (caring for the land). Travelers are encouraged to follow these principles by respecting local customs, preserving the natural environment, and supporting local businesses. Whether you are exploring the heights of Mount Tantalus or the depths of the Pacific Ocean while snorkeling, the spirit of the islands is what truly made Hawaii Five-0 a global success.
The 10 seasons of the show may have come to an end, but the locations remain as vibrant and welcoming as ever. For the adventurous traveler, Oahu offers a chance to step into the screen and experience the beauty, history, and culture of Hawaii firsthand.
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