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5 Real-Life Places You Can Visit from "The Summer I Turned Pretty"

  • Writer: Justbea
    Justbea
  • 12 hours ago
  • 2 min read

If you've ever daydreamed about stepping into the dreamy, sun-kissed world of The Summer I Turned Pretty, I’ve got you covered with a travel-inspired blog post spotlighting five must-visit filming locations from the series, each evoking that nostalgic summer romance.






1. Cousins Beach (Wilmington & Surrounding Beaches)

Profile of a woman with pink flower petals on her face, set against a gray background. Calm expression, highlighting natural skin texture.

Although Cousins Beach is fictional, its real-life stand-ins span the beautiful beaches of Wilmington, North Carolina—including Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Wrightsville Beach—and the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. These locations hosted everything from magical bonfire nights to romance-filled strolls and that unforgettable snowy scene shot in the summer.


Why go?They’re perfect for sunset walks, paddleboarding, or recreating “the path” Belly and Jeremiah ran down—ideal for nostalgia-seekers and beach lovers alike.







2. The Fisher Family’s Beach House (Porters Neck Plantation)

Close-up of a person with glittery green eye makeup, thick lashes, and glossy lips. The background is blurred. Mood is serene and glamorous.


The iconic exterior of the Fisher beach house—welcome to Belly’s summer sanctuary—was filmed in the upscale Porters Neck Plantation community in Wilmington. Interiors were crafted on sound stages at Screen Gems.


Why go?While the house itself is private, a drive past evokes the dreamy coastal charm that defines Belly’s world.







3. The Country Club & Debutante Ball Venue 

Woman in beige underwear takes a mirror selfie in a minimal room. Red text on mirror reads: "You're so much more than you see in the mirror."

Scenes at Cousins Beach Country Club were filmed at the elegant Cape Fear Country Club. Meanwhile, the grand debutante ball took place inside the historic St. Mary Catholic School in Wilmington.


Why go?These locations offer a glimpse into the more formal side of Belly’s summer life—think yellow dresses, nervous excitement, and perfect lighting.









4. Rosie’s Pie Stand & Local Hangouts

Elderly woman in profile with silver hair and blue eye makeup, wearing a gold lion earring with a pearl. Neutral background. Serene expression.

Belly and Jeremiah’s impromptu pie stop was filmed at the charming Old River Farms in Burgaw, NC. Downtown Wilmington also served as a literary hub: Papercut Books doubled as the Whale of a Tale Bookshop—a sweet stop for book lovers.


Why go?Grab a slice, browse vintage and new titles, and soak in that small-town charm full of subtle Summers-worth-of-feels.









5.Boardwalk, Pier & Hell’s Kitchen Bar

Four women in swimsuits smile and pose with a sign reading "Everybody is beautiful" against a beige background, promoting body positivity.



Whether it’s the squeal of the ferris wheel or that late-night hangout, the Carolina Beach Boardwalk (along with Jungle Rapids Fun Park for interiors) captures the show’s playful energy. The Crystal Pier at Wrightsville Beach sets the scene for heartfelt walks. And for a touch of drama, the bar known as Hell’s Kitchen sits in downtown Wilmington—a nod to the show's teen drama roots.


Why go?It’s all the roller-coaster thrills, beach-breezy walks, and late-night shared secrets—classic TSITP vibes in real life.

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