If you were captivated by Jason Momoa’s Chief of War on Apple TV+, you are not alone. This powerful historical drama dives deep into the story of ancient Hawaii, long before it became the tropical paradise we know today and brings to life the fierce struggles, sacred traditions, and political upheaval that shaped the islands. But what if you could go beyond the screen and actually walked through the places that inspired the story? On Oahu, you can do just that. In this blog, we’ll introduce three real locations on Oahu that echo the world of Chief of War from sacred valleys ruled by chiefs to coastal lookouts and legendary islets. And the best part? You can visit all of them with And You Creations cultural tours.
What is Chief of War About?
Chief of War is a gripping Apple TV+ series created by Jason Momoa, who also stars as Ka’iana – a real historical figure caught between tradition and change during the turbulent era before Hawaii’s unification under King Kamehameha I. The show explores:
- The ali’i class (Hawaiian royalty)
- The complexity of inter-island warfare
- And the tension between native identity and outside influence
More than just a period drama, Chief of War is a celebration of Hawaiian culture, language, and sovereignty, created in part by Native Hawaiian voices and filmed across the islands.
And while the series is fictionalized, many of its themes and settings are rooted in real Hawaiian history, some of which are still preserved on Oahu today.
Waimea Valley – Sacred Grounds of the Chiefs
Hidden in Oahu’s North Shore is a lush cultural sanctuary that has witnessed centuries of Hawaiian history: Waimea Valley
This valley was once a thriving ahupu’a, or traditional land division, governed by high-ranking ali’i (chiefs). It holds deep cultural and spiritual significance – home to ancient heiau (temples), burial grounds, and sacred freshwater sources.
In Chief of War, we see the powerful connection between chiefs and their lands. Waimea valley brings that history to life.
Experience it with us:
Join our Nature and You:Waimea tour and walk through botanical gardens, swim beneath a waterfall, and learn how Native Hawaiians lived in balance with their environment. This isn’t just a hike, it’s a journey through the legacy of Hawaiian land stewardship.
Fun fact: The valley is one of the few places in Hawaii where cultural practitioners still actively maintain traditional practices today.
Makapu’u Lookout – A Warrior’s View of the Sea
Standing on the cliffs of Makapu’u Lookout, it’s easy to imagine why ancient Hawaiians saw this place as both a spiritual and strategic location. With its sweeping views of the ocean, it served as a natural lookout point, ideal for spotting incoming canoes or navigating inter-island travel.
In the time of Chief of War, control over coastlines was crucial. Chiefs relied on sites like Makapu’u for both defense and ceremony.
Experience it with us:
Our Island and You circle island tour stops here so you can take in the breathtaking views, and reflect on the same horizon that warriors and voyagers once watched over. It’s a spot where history and beauty collide.
Don’t forget your camera, this is one of Oahu’s most instagram-worthy views!
Chinaman’s Hat – Where Legends Are Born
Just offshore from the Windward coast stands a small, cone-shaped islet known as Mokoli’i or more famously, Chinaman’s Hat. But beneath the playful nickname lies a deeper legend from Hawaiian mythology.
According to mo’olelo (oral tradition), Mokoli’i was once a giant mo’o (lizard or dragon like guardian) slain by the demigod Hi’iaka, sister of Pele. Its tail, they say, became the island we see today.
The ties closely to Chief of War, where myth, mana (spiritual power), and storytelling are essential parts of the ali’i worldview.
Experience it with us:
During the Island and You tour, you’ll see Mokoli’i from a coastal photo stop – often set against the dramatic backdrop of the Ko’olau Mountains. Guides share the legends passed down for generations, reminding us that in Hawaii, every landscape has a story.
Why These Places Matter
While Chief of War brings Hawaiian history to life on screen, these sites offer something even deeper: a chance to connect with the land, the stories, and the people of Hawaii.
When you walk through Waimea Valley, gaze out from Makapu’u or stand in awe of Mokoli’i, you’re not just sightseeing, you’re entering a space where history lives on. And with local guides who carry cultural knowledge with care and pride, you’ll come away with more than just photos, you’ll leave with understanding.
Supporting authentic, locally-run experiences ensures that these stories continue to be told, not just on screens, but in real life.
Ready to Step into History?
Let Chief of War be your inspiration, and let Oahu be your classroom. Whether you’re a history lover, a fan of the show, or simply looking for meaningful travel, our tours invite you to walk in the footsteps of Hawaiian chiefs and legends.
Book your cultural journey today with And You Creations and experience the real stories behind the screen.
