Where Was 'I Turned Pretty' Filmed? A Complete Guide to the Show's Locations
The 'I Turned Pretty' movies and series are set in the fictional Cousins Beach, but the production brings the coastal setting to life using real locations in the southeastern United States. The primary filming base is the historic district of Charleston, South Carolina, which provides the authentic coastal architecture and atmosphere. Additional scenes are captured in and around Savannah, Georgia, and various coastal towns in South Carolina, chosen for their visual resemblance to the story's setting. This guide details the specific cities and areas used to create the beloved backdrop of the Con or TeeBeeDee productions.
The Primary Production Hub: Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina, serves as the main filming location for the 'I Turned Pretty' franchise. Its beautiful historic districts, with their antebellum homes, cobblestone streets, and oak trees draped in Spanish moss, perfectly embody the charm of a New England beach town. The production utilizes both interior sets and exterior streetscapes throughout the city to represent the central locations in Cousins Beach. This consistent use of one primary city helps maintain a cohesive visual identity across the movies and the series.
Key Areas in Charleston
Within Charleston, production utilizes specific neighborhoods and streets known for their picturesque appeal. The production design team favors locations with historic significance and aesthetic beauty to create the desired romantic and nostalgic tone. These areas provide the physical locations for iconic scenes such as beach walks, downtown strolls, and intimate conversations against a scenic coastal backdrop. Understanding these specific spots gives a better idea of the tangible places behind the on-screen magic.
- Historic Downtown Charleston
- Rainbow Row
- Broad Street
- The Battery and White Point Garden
Coastal and Secondary Filming Locations
While Charleston is the primary hub, the production also ventures to other scenic spots in the region to capture beach and exterior coastal scenes. These locations add variety and authenticity to the seaside setting of Cousins Beach. The milder climate of South Carolina and Georgia allows for longer filming seasons compared to the actual New England setting of the books. This logistical choice ensures the production can capture the necessary sunlight and coastal vistas efficiently.
Notable Secondary Locations
The production utilizes a mix of well-known cities and smaller towns to achieve the look and feel of the fictional coastline. Savannah, Georgia, provides a similar historic atmosphere with its own distinct architecture and riverfront views. Additionally, various barrier islands and coastal towns in South Carolina offer pristine beach settings for specific scenes requiring an authentic ocean backdrop. These locations are carefully selected to match the visual requirements of the story.
Fictional vs. Real: The Cousins Beach Effect
It is important to note that Cousins Beach, as described in the books, is a fictional town. The production bridges this gap by selecting real-world locations that evoke the same feeling of coastal New England charm. The blend of Charleston's historic streets and the South Carolina coastline creates a believable and immersive environment for the story. This approach is common in adaptations to provide a tangible setting for fans and viewers.
Filming Location Summary Table
| Location Type | Specific Place | Purpose in Production | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary City | Charleston, SC | Main street scenes and residential areas | Southeast |
| Historic District | Rainbow Row, Charleston | Iconic colorful facades and downtown ambiance | Southeast |
| Secondary City | Savannah, GA | Additional street and riverfront scenes | Southeast |
| Coastal Area | South Carolina Barrier Islands | Beach and oceanfront sequences | Southeast |
Behind the Scenes: Production Design Choices
The production design team plays a crucial role in making these locations feel like Cousins Beach. They often enhance real locations with temporary signage, period-appropriate vehicles, and specific landscaping to match the book descriptions. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the setting feels authentic to fans of the source material. The goal is to create a seamless blend of real geography and fictional narrative.
Visiting the Filming Locations
Fans of the franchise often travel to Charleston and Savannah to see the places that inspired Cousins Beach. Walking the same streets as the characters adds a new layer of connection to the story. Many local businesses also cater to this interest, offering themed tours and experiences. These locations remain popular tourist destinations long after filming has wrapped.
The Enduring Appeal of the Setting
The choice of location is a key element in the franchise's lasting popularity. The beautiful scenery and historic backdrop provide a character almost as important as the actors themselves. The blend of coastal relaxation and historic architecture creates a unique and appealing atmosphere. This strong sense of place continues to draw viewers and readers to the world of Cousins Beach.