
Hanalei Bay 2018
Daishi Matsunaga's *Hanalei Bay* (2018) unfolds as a tender yet heart-wrenching drama set against the sun-drenched shores of Kauai.
Director: Daishi Matsunaga
Cast






Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hanalei Bay (2018) about?
The film follows a single mother who visits Hanalei Bay every year to remember her son, who died in a shark attack. When she meets two Japanese surfers, their stories of perseverance and tragedy bring her face-to-face with a surprising new perspective on loss and hope.
Who directed Hanalei Bay?
Daishi Matsunaga directed *Hanalei Bay*. Known for his emotionally resonant storytelling, Matsunaga's work often explores themes of human connection and resilience.
Who stars in Hanalei Bay?
The film features standout performances from Yoh Yoshida, Reo Sano, Nijiro Murakami, and Louis Kurihara.
Is Hanalei Bay (2018) worth watching?
*Hanalei Bay* offers a poignant, visually striking meditation on grief and healing. While it may not be a mainstream drama, its quiet intensity and thoughtful themes make it a compelling choice for fans of character-driven films.
How long is Hanalei Bay?
The runtime of *Hanalei Bay* is 97 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Hanalei Bay (2018) — A Hawaiian drama of loss, surfers, and unexpected connections
Daishi Matsunaga's *Hanalei Bay* (2018) unfolds as a tender yet heart-wrenching drama set against the sun-drenched shores of Kauai. A devoted single mother makes an annual pilgrimage to Hanalei Bay, Hawaii, to honor the memory of her son—lost years earlier to a tragic shark attack. When she crosses paths with two spirited Japanese surfers, their stories of resilience and loss intertwine, revealing a hidden connection that challenges her grief and redefines her understanding of survival.
Director Daishi Matsunaga, known for his emotionally charged storytelling, crafts a visually stunning portrait of healing and human connection. The film explores themes of grief, redemption, and the unexpected bonds that form in moments of shared sorrow. With a quiet intensity and soulful performances from Yoh Yoshida and Nijiro Murakami, *Hanalei Bay* lingers long after the credits roll.