Where was Outer Banks filmed

“Outer Banks,” the popular Netflix series, is set in the picturesque Outer Banks of North Carolina. However, the actual filming primarily took place in and around Charleston, South Carolina, with additional locations in Barbados and North Carolina contributing to the show’s authentic coastal ambiance.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston’s historic charm and diverse landscapes made it an ideal stand-in for the show’s fictional Kildare County. Key filming sites include:

• Shem Creek, Mount Pleasant: This waterfront area, known for its scenic views and seafood eateries, served as the backdrop for various boating scenes. Notably, The Wreck of the Richard and Charlene restaurant was featured as “The Wreck,” where character Kiara works.
• Lowndes Grove: This historic house portrayed the lavish residence of Sarah Cameron, highlighting the socioeconomic divide central to the series’ narrative.
• Pitt Street, Mount Pleasant: The Old Village area, with its quaint streets and local shops, was used for various town scenes, enhancing the show’s small-town atmosphere.

Barbados

In Season 3, the production expanded to Barbados to depict the fictional island of Poguelandia. Filming locations included:

• Port St. Charles: This marina complex provided the setting for waterfront scenes, adding an exotic flair to the series.
• Cattlewash Beach: Known for its rugged beauty, this beach was featured in several adventure sequences, contributing to the show’s dynamic visuals.
• Welchman Hall Gully: This tropical forest area was utilized for jungle scenes, enhancing the show’s adventurous tone.

North Carolina

While earlier seasons were primarily filmed in South Carolina, Season 4 saw the production returning to North Carolina for specific scenes:

• Wrightsville Beach: The beach and its iconic pier were used for action-packed sequences, adding authenticity to the coastal setting.
• Fort Fisher State Recreation Area: This location provided the backdrop for JJ’s beach race, showcasing North Carolina’s natural beauty.

Why Charleston over the actual Outer Banks?

The decision to film in Charleston instead of the real Outer Banks was influenced by several factors, including North Carolina’s House Bill 2 legislation, which led Netflix to seek alternative locations that aligned with its inclusivity policies.

Visiting the Filming Locations

Fans of “Outer Banks” can explore many of these real-life locations:

• Shem Creek: Enjoy waterfront dining and observe the bustling boating activity reminiscent of the show.
• Lowndes Grove: While primarily an event venue, its exterior can be appreciated from the surrounding area.
• Pitt Street: Stroll through the Old Village to experience the charming streets featured in the series.
• Wrightsville Beach and Fort Fisher: These North Carolina sites offer beautiful coastal experiences for visitors.

Exploring these locations provides a tangible connection to the world of “Outer Banks,” allowing fans to immerse themselves in the show’s atmospheric settings.