Where Was “Castaway” Filmed?

• What is “Castaway” anyway?
• Where did they film “Castaway”?
• Can you visit Monuriki?
• Filming locations off the island
• Book filming locations similar to those in “Castaway”

Released in 2000, “Castaway” remains an incredibly dramatic and groundbreaking film that’s still garnering new viewers today. Maybe you just saw it for the first time or watched it in theaters when it first came out. Either way, you may be wondering, “Where was ‘Castaway’ filmed?”

Ahead, we share where they filmed “Castaway”. We’ll also include examples of filming locations and event spaces that could help you replicate the movie’s deserted island scenery for your own film project, photoshoot, or event. You can rent each of those unique spaces by the hour on Peerspace, the most extensive online marketplace for hourly venue rentals, including but not limited to plenty of pristine beachfront destinations.

What is “Castaway” anyway?

“Castaway” is the story of Chuck Noland, played by the beloved Tom Hanks, who is the main focus of the film’s screen time. The movie focuses on Noland’s efforts to survive and make it back home after his plane crashes on a deserted island in the South Pacific.

At the time of its release, “Castaway” was popular with critics and audiences alike. Hanks’ performance won him Best Actor in a Drama at the Golden Globes, and the actor was also nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading Role.

Where did they film “Castaway”?

According to an article on Atlas of Wonders, they filmed “Castaway” in the Republic of Fiji. Specifically, filming took place on the South Pacific island of Monuriki (otherwise known as Modriki).

Monuriki is a small (about three-quarters of a mile long and a third of a mile wide) and deserted island off the coast of Vitu Levu. Vitu Levu itself is the largest island in Fiji and the location of the country’s capital.

Love all things Tom Hanks? We get it! Discover where he filmed “Finch” with this dedicated guide.

Can you visit Monuriki?

According to The Travel, you can visit the island where they filmed “Castaway”. After more than 20 years, the location still looks virtually identical to how it did in the movie. The island is accessible by boat, and day tours led by tour guides will show you where many of the film’s most pivotal scenes took place. In addition to the island’s beautiful beaches, you can explore the small patch of jungle on the island.

If you’re curious about what it would be like to visit Monuriki yourself, this post from the Earth Trekkers travel blog is a great insight with plenty of photos. When they arrived on the island, they “were taken on a short tour and shown where various scenes in the movie were filmed.”

They write, “Somebody had spelled out ‘Help Me Wilson’ using coconuts and we even got a photo with Wilson.” (Those who have seen the film will of course remember who, or rather what, Wilson is — spoiler: it’s the volleyball that Tom Hanks paints a face on and uses as a replacement for human company.)

Filming locations off the island

Most of those asking the question, “Where was ‘Castaway’ filmed?” will be asking about one main location. The island where Chuck Noland is stranded for four years and where most of the action takes place!

However, if you’re curious about other filming locations, Hitc.com notes the initial scene set in Mosco. While Chuck lectured his fellow FedEx employees, the setting was in fact a location at Moscow’s Red Square. They filmed additional scenes throughout the United States, including Los Angeles, CA; Memphis, TN; and Canadian, TX.

Book filming locations similar to those in “Castaway”

Now that we’ve answered the question “Where was ‘Castaway’ filmed?” how about finding comparable filming locations? It might be a challenge to find a desert island where you can film without doing quite a bit of research and traveling very far afield, but plenty of rentals will allow you convenient access to unspoiled beaches.

Here are examples you can easily rent through Peerspace, the largest online marketplace for venue rentals by the hour:

1. Create something beautiful at this waterfront family compound in Florida

Renting this 50-acre historic property on Florida’s stunning South Merritt Island is an amazing deal. They have everything you could possibly be seeking in such a location. As the hosts put it, “Whether you’re in search of Shangri-La, Xanadu, or a timeless Floridian landscape; the river, beach,  barns, fields, trees, cottages… everything under the sun is here to be savored!”

They note the compound has been in their family since the 1930s and has “a beautiful palm grove, several original homes, multiple terraces, swimming pool, exotic fruit trees, gardens, and 1200 feet of undisturbed riverfront.”

The undisturbed riverfront and adjacent natural scenery will likely be what those inspired by “Castaway” are most drawn to, of course, and it’s truly beautiful and incredibly private, which makes it perfect for filming. In addition, for the sake of convenience, there are numerous barns and out-buildings on the parcel of land ideal for storing film equipment, cameras, and props.

2. Film surrounded by lush tropical foliage at this San Marcos outdoor paradise

Prepare to have your mind blown by this lush tropical theme outdoor escape in San Marcos, CA. It’s an 11,000-square-foot private outdoor space with a lagoon pool, a treehouse (shown above), two waterfalls, a white sand beach, and thick tropical forests that strongly resemble a deserted island.

Along with all of these amazing backdrops, the host also provides a dedicated restroom and an indoor production room for your cast and crew to gather.

“We had an absolutely wonderful experience at this Peerspace home for our photo and video shoot,” shares a Peerspace reviewer. “The location was stunning, offering beautiful views and a serene atmosphere. The property itself was impeccably maintained, clean, and comfortable. Mark, our host, was incredibly nice and helpful throughout our stay, ensuring we had everything we needed.”

3. Take your project to the next level at this oceanfront modern home in Malibu

Just because you’re seeking a filming location inspired by “Castaway” doesn’t mean you have to live like Tom Hanks’ character did in the film! Those who are looking for plenty of creature comforts at their “home base” while filming will love this pristine modern home in Malibu, CA, which has the undisturbed beach you’re seeking just feet away.

This spot also provides an unbelievably luxurious, four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom home to return to while you’re taking breaks from filming. To quote one reviewer who held a photoshoot here, “Absolutely amazing place and amazing hosting! I can’t remember how many times I have rented from Lina and she is extremely sweet and accommodating to the crews. Not to mention there are so many beautiful spots to shoot at. All of our photos came out looking beautiful. Will continue renting!”

Love the idea of creating something beautiful in Malibu? Then you need to also see these gorgeous spots to take pictures in Malibu next!

Where was “Castaway” filmed: conclusion

Now we’ve escaped the island and are back home, safe and sound! We hope you’ve enjoyed this insider’s look as we answered the question: Where was “Castaway” filmed? And remember, whether you’re filming a production or gathering with friends to throw your own island-themed party, count on Peerspace to connect you to the most amazing spaces.

Peerspace makes it easy to uncover and book unique venues that bring your vision to life. Head to our platform now to find all the unique hidden gem spaces near you.

Find unique film production venues on Peerspace