If you’re wondering where Outer Banks was actually filmed, you’re not alone. While the Netflix hit series is set in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, most Outer Banks filming locations are in Charleston, South Carolina. From scenic waterfronts to historic streets, Charleston perfectly doubled as the fictional OBX you see on screen.
This guide covers the real Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston, SC, that fans can visit today. You’ll discover exact filming spots, learn which locations are public or private, and get helpful tips to plan your trip with ease. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a traveler curious about Netflix Outer Banks locations, this article gives you clear, simple answers—no confusion, no fluff. By the end, you’ll know where Outer Banks was filmed, which Charleston locations appear in the show, and how to explore them like a local.
Was Outer Banks Really Filmed in Charleston, South Carolina?
Yes, Outer Banks was mostly filmed in Charleston, South Carolina, not in North Carolina’s real Outer Banks. Although the story takes place in the OBX, the production team chose Charleston because of its coastal scenery, historic streets, marshes, and waterfront views. These locations closely match the look of the Outer Banks while offering easier filming permits and better infrastructure.
Many Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston, SC, are spread across Downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant. The city’s docks, bridges, and neighborhoods were used to film major scenes featuring the Pogues and the Kooks. For fans searching for where Outer Banks was filmed, Charleston provides the clearest answer. Today, these Netflix Outer Banks filming locations are real places you can visit, walk around, and photograph—making Charleston a top destination for Outer Banks fans.
Quick Overview – Outer Banks Filming Locations at a Glance
If you’re short on time, this quick overview helps you understand the main Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston before diving deeper. Most filming spots are located in Mount Pleasant and Downtown Charleston, making them easy to combine into a single trip. Popular locations like Shem Creek, Pitt Street Bridge, and Washington Square Park are free and open to the public.
Some filming locations, such as Lowndes Grove (Tannyhill Plantation), are private properties and require permission or special events to visit. A few locations, including lighthouse scenes, are best viewed by boat tours. This guide clearly explains which Outer Banks filming locations you can visit, which ones require planning, and which should only be viewed from a distance. It’s designed to help fans explore the real Outer Banks Charleston filming locations with confidence.
Main Outer Banks Filming Locations in Charleston & Mount Pleasant
Charleston and Mount Pleasant are home to the most recognizable Outer Banks filming spots. These locations were used repeatedly throughout the series and are easy for fans to identify. From waterfront docks to quiet residential streets, each spot played a key role in bringing the story to life.
In the sections below, you’ll find exact filming locations, scene details, access information, and helpful visiting tips. Whether you’re looking for Outer Banks filming locations you can visit or just want to see where iconic scenes were shot, these are the places that matter most. Many of these locations are still unchanged, making them perfect for photos. This list focuses on the real Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston, SC, not studio sets or temporary builds.
Shem Creek (Pogues’ Boat & Waterfront Scenes)
Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant is one of the most famous Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston. Many boat scenes featuring the Pogues were filmed here, thanks to its lively docks, fishing boats, and coastal views. The area perfectly captured the laid-back OBX vibe shown in the series.
Shem Creek is free and open to the public, making it an easy stop for fans. You can walk along the boardwalk, watch boats pass by, and enjoy waterfront restaurants nearby. This location is ideal for photos, especially in the early morning or just before sunset. If you’re searching for Outer Banks filming locations you can visit, Shem Creek should be at the top of your list. It’s one of the most authentic Netflix Outer Banks locations still active today.
The Wreck of the Richard and Charlene
The Wreck of the Richard and Charlene is one of the most recognizable Outer Banks Charleston filming locations. In the show, it appears as Kiara’s family restaurant, serving seafood along the water. In real life, it is a popular waterfront restaurant located directly on Shem Creek.
Fans love this spot because it looks almost exactly the same as it does on screen. You can dine here, sit outdoors, and enjoy the same views seen in the series. This makes it one of the few Outer Banks filming locations where you can eat and relax. Because it’s a real business, visiting is easy, but weekends can be busy. If you’re planning an Outer Banks filming locations tour, this stop combines food, scenery, and fandom in one place.
Pitt Street Bridge (Iconic Pogues Hangout Spot)
The Pitt Street Bridge is one of the most loved Outer Banks filming locations in Mount Pleasant, SC. It was used for several emotional and quiet scenes where the Pogues spend time together. The bridge’s peaceful setting and wide water views made it a perfect filming choice.
Today, the Pitt Street Bridge is a public park and walking area. Fans can walk along the bridge, take photos, and enjoy beautiful sunsets. It’s completely free to visit and easy to access, making it a favorite for Outer Banks fans. This location feels calm and real, just like in the show. If you’re looking for free Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston, this spot should not be missed.
Old Village, Mount Pleasant
The Old Village neighborhood in Mount Pleasant was used for several Outer Banks filming locations, especially scenes showing wealthier areas tied to the Kooks. The quiet streets, large homes, and coastal charm helped create the contrast between the Pogues and the Kooks.
Many scenes were filmed outside private homes, so visitors should be respectful. While you can drive or walk through the area, it’s important not to enter private property. This neighborhood is best enjoyed as a scenic drive or short walk. If you’re searching for Outer Banks filming locations, Charleston, SC, the Old Village shows how real neighborhoods were used to bring the story to life. It’s a subtle but important filming area that fans often overlook.
Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park is a small but important Outer Banks filming location in downtown Charleston. It was used for scenes where characters explore the city after arriving by ferry. The park’s historic surroundings made it ideal for showing Charleston’s charm on screen.
This location is free and open to the public, making it an easy stop during a walking tour of the city. Benches, shade, and nearby attractions make it a relaxing place to visit. Fans can easily recognize the setting from the show. If you’re planning a self-guided Outer Banks filming locations tour, Washington Square Park fits perfectly into a downtown itinerary and pairs well with nearby historic sites.
Lowndes Grove (Tannyhill Plantation / Cameron House)
Lowndes Grove is one of the most iconic Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston, SC. It served as Tannyhill Plantation, the Cameron family home. Its grand exterior perfectly matched the wealthy lifestyle shown in the series.
Lowndes Grove is a private property used mainly for events and weddings. While you can see parts of it from the outside, general public access is limited. Fans should not attempt to enter without permission. Even viewing it from a distance is exciting for fans who recognize it instantly. If you’re searching for the Outer Banks Cameron house filming location, this is it—just remember to respect property rules.
Morris Island Lighthouse
The Morris Island Lighthouse appeared in the series as the Redfield Lighthouse, a key location in the storyline. While it looks remote on screen, it’s actually located near Charleston and is best viewed from the water.
This Outer Banks filming location is not accessible by foot. Fans usually see it through boat tours or from distant shoreline viewpoints. Even though access is limited, it remains one of the most memorable Netflix Outer Banks filming locations. If you’re interested in lighthouse scenes from the show, this stop adds depth to your filming locations experience, especially when paired with a guided boat tour.
Charleston Gaillard Center
The Charleston Gaillard Center was used as an exterior filming location in Outer Banks, appearing as a college-related building in the show. Its clean design and large structure made it suitable for filming academic scenes.
Located in downtown Charleston, this spot is easy to view while exploring the city. While interior scenes were filmed elsewhere, fans can still recognize the exterior from the show. This location is another example of how real Charleston buildings were used to create fictional settings. If you’re visiting multiple Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston, the Gaillard Center is a simple and quick stop.
Outer Banks Filming Locations by Season
Season 1 Filming Locations
- Filming focused mainly on Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
- Popular spots included Shem Creek for boat scenes
- Pitt Street Bridge was used for key Pogues moments
- Most early scenes showing the OBX lifestyle were filmed here
Season 2 Filming Locations
- Filming expanded into downtown Charleston
- More waterfront and city-based scenes were added
- Charleston parks and historic areas appeared more often
- The show’s visual style became bigger and more dramatic
Season 3 Filming Locations
- Charleston filming continued for selected scenes
- The season introduced international filming locations
- Fewer Charleston scenes compared to earlier seasons
- Used mainly to support specific storylines
Can You Visit All Outer Banks Filming Locations? (Public vs Private Guide)
Public Filming Locations
These Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston SC are open to everyone:
- Shem Creek – Public boardwalk, boats, waterfront views, great for photos
- Pitt Street Bridge – Walking path, peaceful setting, popular sunset spot
- Washington Square Park – Small downtown park, benches, shade, easy access
- Charleston Gaillard Center (Exterior) – Public area, viewable from outside
✔ No tickets needed
✔ Easy and safe access
✔ Best for first-time visitors
Private Filming Locations (View from Outside Only)
These locations are not open to the public:
- Lowndes Grove (Tannyhill Plantation) – Private event and wedding venue
- Old Village Homes, Mount Pleasant – Residential neighborhood
✔ View only from public roads
✔ Do not enter private property
✔ Respect local residents
Boat-Only Filming Locations
These Outer Banks filming locations require a boat to see properly:
- Morris Island Lighthouse (Redfield Lighthouse) – Accessible by boat tour only
✔ Boat tour recommended
✔ No direct foot access
Important Visiting Tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light
- Follow posted signs and local rules
- Be respectful when taking photo
Best Time to Visit Outer Banks Filming Locations in Charleston
The best time to explore Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston is during spring and fall. The weather is pleasant, crowds are smaller, and lighting is great for photos. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best views, especially at waterfront locations.
Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter is quieter but cooler. If photography is your goal, visit popular spots like Pitt Street Bridge during sunrise or sunset. Planning your visit carefully helps you enjoy the real Outer Banks filming locations without stress. Timing matters, especially if you want calm scenes similar to the show.
Outer Banks Filming Locations Map & Self-Guided Tour
A self-guided Outer Banks filming locations tour is easy to plan because most locations are close together. You can group downtown Charleston spots into one walk and Mount Pleasant locations into another short drive. Many fans complete the main filming locations in one full day.
Using a map helps you avoid backtracking and saves time. Start with Shem Creek, then visit Pitt Street Bridge, and end downtown at Washington Square Park. This approach works well for fans who prefer flexibility. A self-guided tour is ideal for those who want to explore Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston, SC, at their own pace.
Outer Banks Filming Location Boat Tours (Are They Worth It?)
Boat tours offer a different way to see Outer Banks filming locations, especially spots like the Morris Island Lighthouse. These tours provide water-level views and local stories about filming. They are helpful for fans who want access to harder-to-reach locations.
However, boat tours are optional. Many filming locations can be visited without spending money. If you enjoy guided experiences and coastal views, a boat tour may be worth it. For budget travelers, self-guided visits work just as well. This section helps fans decide which option fits their travel style best.
Conclusion:
When visiting Outer Banks filming locations, always respect private property and local neighborhoods. Combine filming spots with Charleston’s historic attractions to make the most of your trip. Comfortable shoes, good timing, and a flexible plan go a long way.
Charleston offers one of the best Netflix filming location experiences in the U.S. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a true fan, seeing these places in real life adds meaning to the show. With this guide, you’re fully prepared to explore the real Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston, SC, like a local.
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