The sun-drenched beaches that form the backdrop to Jenny Han’s “The Summer I Turned Pretty” are pivotal to the series’ idyllic atmosphere. While the fictional Cousins Beach is a carefully crafted blend of coastal locations, the primary filming location for its breathtaking shores is Wilmington, North Carolina, and its surrounding beaches, particularly Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach.
Discovering Cousins Beach: Beyond the Fiction
“The Summer I Turned Pretty” thrives on its summery visuals, portraying a coastal paradise that beckons viewers to experience the magic of youth, love, and self-discovery. But what makes these North Carolina beaches so perfect for bringing Cousins Beach to life?
A Coastal Palette: Blending Reality and Imagination
Cousins Beach isn’t a real place, but it’s a potent composite of real-world locations meticulously chosen by the production team. Wilmington and its nearby beaches offer a diverse range of scenery, from pristine sandy shores to charming boardwalks and picturesque harbors, all contributing to the believability of the fictional setting. This allows the show to create a familiar, yet aspirational, vacation destination.
Wrightsville Beach: The Heart of Cousins?
While multiple locations contributed to the overall look of Cousins Beach, Wrightsville Beach stands out as a significant influence. Known for its wide, sandy expanses, vibrant surf culture, and iconic pier, Wrightsville Beach embodies the energetic and youthful spirit central to the series. Certain scenes, including some of the beach party sequences, were filmed in this area.
Carolina Beach: A Touch of Southern Charm
Carolina Beach’s laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly appeal further enhance the authenticity of Cousins Beach. Its classic boardwalk, complete with arcades and amusement rides, provides a visual counterpoint to the more upscale vibe of Wrightsville Beach, adding layers to the fictional town’s character. Filming also took place in areas showcasing the quintessential Southern charm associated with coastal Carolina towns.
Exploring the Filming Locations: Beyond the Beaches
The “The Summer I Turned Pretty” production ventured beyond the beaches themselves, utilizing various locations in and around Wilmington to complete the visual tapestry of Cousins Beach.
Local Landmarks: Adding Depth to the Story
Key scenes were filmed at private residences designed to evoke the quintessential summer beach house feel. These homes, carefully selected and dressed by the production design team, served as the iconic Fisher house, a central gathering place for the characters. Other locations include local restaurants, shops, and parks, further grounding the fictional world in reality.
Wilmington: A Thriving Film Industry Hub
Wilmington, North Carolina, has a long history as a popular filming location, dubbed “Wilmywood” due to its thriving film industry. The presence of EUE/Screen Gems Studios, a major production facility, provides the necessary infrastructure and resources to support large-scale productions like “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” The experienced local crew and readily available talent pool also contributed to the smooth execution of the filming process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “The Summer I Turned Pretty” Filming Locations
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the filming locations of “The Summer I Turned Pretty”:
Q1: Is Cousins Beach a real place I can visit?
No, Cousins Beach is a fictional town. However, the series was filmed in various locations in and around Wilmington, North Carolina, including Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach. Visiting these locations allows you to experience the real-world inspiration behind the fictional setting.
Q2: Can I visit the Fisher house from the show?
Unfortunately, the private residences used to portray the Fisher house are not open to the public. They are private properties, and trespassing is prohibited. While you can’t enter the actual house, you can enjoy the beaches and surrounding areas where exterior shots were filmed.
Q3: Were all the beach scenes filmed on the same beach?
No, different beaches in the Wilmington area were used to create the overall look and feel of Cousins Beach. The production team strategically selected locations to match specific scenes and moods.
Q4: What other TV shows and movies have been filmed in Wilmington, NC?
Wilmington has a rich history as a filming location, with numerous productions utilizing its diverse landscapes and skilled crew. Some notable examples include “Dawson’s Creek,” “One Tree Hill,” “Iron Man 3,” and “Halloween Kills.”
Q5: Is it easy to identify the specific filming locations while visiting?
While some locations, like the beaches and boardwalks, are easily recognizable, identifying the precise spots where specific scenes were filmed can be challenging. The production team often uses creative angles and edits to create the desired visual effect. Online resources and fan forums dedicated to the show may offer more specific information.
Q6: Are there any “The Summer I Turned Pretty” themed tours available in Wilmington?
As the show’s popularity continues to grow, the possibility of themed tours may increase. Check with local tourism agencies and tour operators to see if any are currently offered. Even without a dedicated tour, exploring the beaches and town centers provides a taste of the Cousins Beach experience.
Q7: What is the best time of year to visit Wilmington, NC, to experience the “Summer I Turned Pretty” vibe?
The best time to visit is during the spring or summer months, mirroring the show’s summery setting. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.
Q8: Are there any specific landmarks in Wrightsville Beach or Carolina Beach that were prominently featured in the show?
While specific landmarks were not always explicitly highlighted, the Wrightsville Beach Pier and the Carolina Beach Boardwalk are recognizable locations that contribute to the overall visual identity of Cousins Beach.
Q9: Did Jenny Han, the author of the books, have input on the filming locations?
Jenny Han was actively involved in the production of the series, serving as an executive producer. It is likely that she had input on various aspects of the show, including the selection of filming locations.
Q10: How did the production team transform Wilmington into Cousins Beach?
The production team utilized a combination of set dressing, location scouting, and post-production techniques to transform Wilmington into Cousins Beach. This included adding beach-themed décor, strategically selecting camera angles, and utilizing visual effects.
Q11: Besides the beaches, what other types of locations were used for filming?
In addition to the beaches, the production used residential streets, local businesses (restaurants and shops), parks, and boat docks around Wilmington. These locations helped to create a believable small-town atmosphere.
Q12: Will future seasons of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” continue to film in Wilmington, NC?
While there is no official guarantee that future seasons will be filmed in the same locations, the success of the first season and the positive relationship between the production team and the Wilmington community make it highly probable. For now, Wilmington and its surrounding beaches remain the heart of Cousins Beach.