Location Of The Summer I Turned Pretty

If you've binge-watched The Summer I Turned Pretty and immediately started Googling "where is Cousins Beach?" — you're not alone. The series doesn't just tug at your heartstrings; it gives you serious wanderlust for sandy shores, pastel sunsets, and that one perfect small-town summer.

Let's take a relaxed stroll through the real-world locations where this beloved adaptation came to life, along with some insider tips for making the most of your visit.

The Heart of It All: Cousins Beach

In the show, Cousins Beach is the fictional shoreline where Isabel and Susannah's families spend every summer. It's the kind of place where bonfires feel eternal and first kisses hit differently.

In reality, the series is filmed along the coastal towns of Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.ܢThis area has quietly become one of TV's favorite backdrops, hosting productions like Dawson's Creek and One Tree Hill before it.

Fun fact: North Carolina's film industry brings in an estimated $400 million+ annually, making it one of the fastest-growing hubs on the East Coast. So when you walk these beaches, you're literally strolling across a pop-culture mecca.

Strolling Through Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington itself is a gem — think brick-lined downtown streets, waterfront parks, and one of the most intact historic districts in the South. It's the perfect blend of laid-back and vibrant.

The town center, known as Downtown Wilmington, is where you'll find charming cafés, vintage bookstores, and independent boutiques that feel ripped right from a summer read. Grab an iced latte at a local coffee shop and you'll fully understand the show's slow-afternoon energy.

Where Is The House In The Summer I Turned Pretty | Naked Grapefruit

Pro tip: Visit the Northeast Cape Fear Riverwalk for a peaceful evening stroll. You'll catch gorgeous waterfront views and maybe even spot other filming crews in action.

The Cape Fear Region

The broader Cape Fear region plays a huge role in the show's scenery — from its tree-lined roads to its moody, windswept pines. Everything about it screams "summer in a coming-of-age novel."

Barriers of tide pools, marshes, and old oak lanes create an atmosphere that feels both wild and welcoming. It's the kind of place where time slows down — exactly what the story needs.

Cultural nugget: Cape Fear once served as the setting for Robert James Waller's novel adaptation The Bridges of Madison County vibes — romantic, windswept, and deeply nostalgic.

Wrightsville Beach & Figure Eight Island

Wrightsville Beach, located just east of Wilmington, is where most of the show's beach scenes are shot. It's a laid-back community where locals outnumber tourists most of the year.

Where Is Cousins Beach In The Summer I Turned Pretty Filming Locations

The pristine white sand and relatively calm waters make it incredibly photogenic — which explains why every frame of the show looks like a postcard. Sunsets here are legendary; picture yourself with the ocean at your feet and the sky in full bloom.

Figure Eight Island, a private barrier island nearby, also contributes to the show's secluded beach aesthetic. While you can't easily access it without a resident's invite, the surrounding public beaches offer a very similar experience.

Practical Travel Tips for Fans

If you're planning a TSITP-inspired trip, visiting during late May through August will give you that peak summer atmosphere the show thrives on. The humidity is real — so pack light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen.

Best neighborhoods to explore: Try Castle Hayne for rural charm or head into the artsy Northeast District for murals and galleries. Both areas capture the small-town spirit that makes the series feel so relatable.

The Summer I Turned Pretty Filming Locations – NNKHC

Accommodation ranges from affordable beach rentals to charming bed-and-breakfasts. Book early if you're visiting during TV Fan Weekend — many local businesses host special events tied to popular Wilmington-shot series.

Why These Locations Matter

There's something beautifully comforting about seeing real places become fictional worlds. Wilmington's coastline doesn't just set the scene — it becomes the emotional backdrop of every milestone in Belly's story.

It reminds us that the best summers aren't defined by where you go, but by who you're with and what you're feeling. Sunshine is great, but connection is what we really remember.

A Small Reflection

We all have our own "Cousins Beach" — maybe it's a childhood backyard, a college town, or just a quiet porch where everything felt simple. The Summer I Turned Pretty captures that feeling perfectly because it's rooted in places that feel real and lived-in.

So next time you're scrolling through photos of someone else's dream vacation, remember: your slice of summer magic might already be right outside your window. Step into it, pull up a chair, and let your own story unfold — no plane ticket required.