Picture this: a cozy beach house nestled near golden sands, with the sound of waves crashing softly in the background. The idyllic charm of Cousins Beach House, as seen in the hit series The Summer I Turned Pretty, has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. This fictional retreat is more than just a setting; it’s a symbol of summer, youth, and nostalgia.
What is Cousins Beach House?
The Fictional World of The Summer I Turned Pretty
Cousins Beach is a pivotal setting in Jenny Han’s The Summer I Turned Pretty. This bestselling book series-turned-Prime Video hit revolves around Belly Conklin and her transformative summers spent at Cousins Beach. The beach house plays an integral role in the story, serving as the backdrop for love triangles, family drama, and self-discovery.
Cousins Beach itself is a fictional coastal town that combines the charm of classic summer destinations like Cape Cod, the Hamptons, and the Outer Banks. It’s described as a serene getaway with sandy beaches, picturesque houses, and an air of timeless nostalgia.
The Emotional Connection of the Beach House
For Belly, the house is more than just a vacation spot—it represents her childhood, her coming-of-age journey, and her most treasured memories with the Fisher and Conklin families. The house becomes a character in its own right, embodying themes of love, change, and the bittersweet passage of time.
Jenny Han’s Inspiration
While Cousins Beach isn’t a real place, Jenny Han crafted it by drawing inspiration from various real-life coastal towns. In interviews, she mentioned that the aesthetic of the Hamptons, Cape Cod, Virginia Beach, and the Outer Banks all influenced her vision of Cousins Beach. The result is a fictional location that feels both relatable and magical, blending the best of these iconic summer destinations.
Where is the Cousins Beach House Filmed?
Now, let’s get to the real question: where is the Cousins Beach House filmed? While Cousins Beach may exist only in the imagination, the production team of The Summer I Turned Pretty brought it to life using real-world locations.
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Wilmington, North Carolina: The Heart of Cousins Beach
The majority of the filming for The Summer I Turned Pretty takes place in Wilmington, North Carolina, a charming coastal city known for its scenic beaches and film-friendly atmosphere. Here’s a closer look at the key filming spots:
Porters Neck Plantation
The iconic exterior of the Fisher family’s beach house was filmed at Porters Neck Plantation, a private gated community in Wilmington. This beautiful property, with its coastal architecture and lush surroundings, perfectly captures the essence of Cousins Beach.
While the house is not open to the public, its exterior has become one of the most recognizable elements of the show.
Surrounding Beaches
Wilmington is home to several stunning beaches that served as stand-ins for Cousins Beach:
- Carolina Beach: This lively spot is perfect for capturing the fun, summery atmosphere of the show.
- Kure Beach: Known for its quiet, family-friendly vibe, it’s ideal for intimate and emotional scenes.
- Wrightsville Beach: Famous for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, it adds an authentic coastal charm to the series.
Southport, North Carolina
The small town of Southport, located just a short drive from Wilmington, was used for several key scenes. Fans will recognize the iconic “Entering Cousins Beach” sign from this area. Southport’s quaint streets and waterfront views make it a perfect fit for the show’s aesthetic.
Other Notable Locations
- Cape Fear Country Club: A historic location featured in the series.
- Fort Fisher State Recreation Area: This scenic park serves as the backdrop for nighttime beach scenes, adding a touch of mystery and romance to the show.
Interiors on Soundstages
While the exteriors were filmed on location, the interior scenes of the beach house were recreated on soundstages in Wilmington. This allowed the production team to have complete control over lighting, set design, and camera angles, ensuring a seamless viewing experience.
The Fictional vs. Real Geography of Cousins Beach
Cousins Beach: A Massachusetts Coastal Dream
In both the books and the series, Cousins Beach is geographically situated in Massachusetts, specifically near Cape Cod. The references to Boston, local TV stations, and town names like Yarmouth firmly place it in New England.
Why Wilmington Stood In
Despite the Massachusetts setting, the show was filmed in North Carolina due to several practical reasons:
- Cost-effectiveness: Filming in Wilmington is more budget-friendly than in New England.
- Film-friendly infrastructure: Wilmington has a long history of hosting productions, offering experienced crews and facilities.
- Diverse locations: The coastal scenery in Wilmington can mimic various settings, from New England beaches to Southern shores.
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This blending of fictional geography with real-world locations creates a unique charm, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the world of Cousins Beach.
Why Wilmington, North Carolina, Was Chosen for Filming
A Filmmaker’s Paradise
Wilmington has long been a favorite destination for filmmakers, thanks to its picturesque landscapes and film-friendly policies. Movies like A Walk to Remember and TV shows like Dawson’s Creek were also filmed here, solidifying its reputation as “Hollywood East.”
Scenic Diversity
From private gated communities like Porters Neck Plantation to lively public beaches, Wilmington offers a wide range of settings. This versatility made it the perfect stand-in for the fictional Cousins Beach.
Proximity to Production Facilities
The presence of soundstages and production facilities in Wilmington allowed the crew to seamlessly transition between on-location shoots and controlled studio environments.
Visiting the Cousins Beach House Locations: A Travel Guide
Are you a fan eager to experience the magic of Cousins Beach in real life? Here’s a travel guide for exploring the filming locations:
Suggested Itinerary
- Start at Porter’s Neck Plantation: While you can’t enter this private community, you can admire the area’s beauty from a distance.
- Visit Southport: Snap a photo with the iconic “Entering Cousins Beach” sign and explore the town’s charming streets.
- Relax at Carolina Beach: Enjoy the lively atmosphere and soak in the sun.
- Explore Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach: Perfect for quieter moments and picturesque views.
- Discover Fort Fisher: Walk along the trails or enjoy a night beach scene just like in the show.
Local Dining and Accommodations
- Dining: Try fresh seafood at local favorites like Dockside and Fishy Fishy Cafe.
- Stays: Book a cozy beach rental or stay at a boutique hotel in Wilmington or Southport.
Tips for Fans
- Respect Private Properties: Remember that some filming locations, like Porter’s Neck Plantation, are private.
- Plan Ahead: Summer is peak tourist season, so book accommodations early.
The Cultural Impact of Cousins Beach House and Its Locations
Boost to Local Tourism
The popularity of The Summer I Turned Pretty has significantly increased interest in Wilmington and its beaches. Fans from around the world are flocking to these locations, giving a boost to local businesses and tourism.
A Symbol of Summer and Nostalgia
For fans, the beach house represents more than just a filming location. It’s a symbol of summer, youth, and the bittersweet beauty of growing up.
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