Kimberly James, who played Nani (Kekoa's cousin), was originally cast as Kekoa but lost the role because the filmmakers wanted to cast locals to qualify for tax credits. They had originally planned to film in Australia before deciding on Hawaii.
Pat Morita started his career out as stand-up comedian in nightclubs and bars before becoming an actor. He is probably most known for the role of Mr. Miyagi in the Karate Kid movies The Karate Kid (1984), Karate Kid Part 2 (1986), The Karate Kid Part 3 (1989), and The Next Karate Kid (1994).
First appearance of Pat Morita as Mr. Tanaka.