Since its premiere in 2016, Moana has been one of Disney’s fastest-growing franchises. In addition to receiving a sequel in 2024, Moana will be one of Disney’s newest computer-animated films to score a live-action adaptation, set to premiere in 2026.
Viewers interested in the sequel and live-action adaptation can use our guide to find out how to watch the Moana movies in order and where they’re available to stream online on platforms like Disney+.
In 2016, Moana (Auliʻi Cravalho) became Disney’s first Polynesian heroine. Moana is set on the Polynesian island of Montunui, an island once brought to life by the nature goddess Te Fiti. However, the island begins deteriorating when the demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) steals a pounamu stone known as the Heart of Te Fiti. One thousand years later, the ocean destines Moana to return the heart of Te Fiti to Montunui, sending her on an adventure across the sea to find Maui.
Moana was a smash hit at the box office and received high critical acclaim for its story, voice acting, animation, and soundtrack. At the Oscars, it was nominated for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for “How Far I’ll Go.” Not only was it a beautifully animated, heartwarming, and unique story, but it was also hailed as a progressive and diverse triumph, with its nod to Polynesian culture and feminist themes.
In early 2024, Disney surprised audiences by announcing that Moana 2 was set to premiere that year. Initially, the studio had been developing a TV series, Moana: The Series, before the project was reworked into the sequel film. Moana 2 sees the return of Moana and Maui as they set out to find the lost island of Motufetu and restore mortals’ connection to the ocean, which was severed by the vengeful god Nalo (Tofiga Fepulea'i). So far, Moana 2 has exceeded box office predictions and earned praise for its stunning, vibrant animation and family-friendly entertainment.
Following the sequel, viewers won’t have to wait long for more Moana. A live-action adaptation of the original film, Moana, is currently in development and set to premiere in 2026. The film will see Johnson reprise his role as the live-action Maui, while Catherine Lagaʻaia has been cast as Moana.
How to watch the Moana movies in order
Watching the Moana moves in order is quite simple, as the animated films' release date and chronological order are the same. Additionally, there is a Moana short film, Gone Fishing, that viewers can enjoy between the feature-length films. The Moana movies in release date order are:
- Moana (2016)
- Gone Fishing (2017)
- Moana 2 (2024)
- Moana (2026)
Where to watch the Moana movies streaming online
Check out our list below to find out where to watch all the Moana movies online in the U.S.!
