The Summer I Turned Pretty: A Wilmington Guide to Cousins Beach

Wilmington & “Hollywood East”

With its blend of coastal charm and historic downtown streets, Wilmington—often nicknamed “Wilmywood”—has long been a favorite for film and television crews (more on that here). “The Summer I Turned Pretty” was filmed across the city’s nearby beaches, Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach and in the walkable downtown area.Here’s a guide on how you can imagine you’re in Cousins when you visit Wilmington and its island beaches.

1. Season 3 Highlights

With the newest season currently underway, we’ve rounded up some must-visit filming locations where you can step into your favorite Season 3 scenes. (Spoilers ahead!)

Start your day like Conrad at Casa Blanca Coffee Roasters. Featured in Episode 1, this cozy and coastal coffee shop is where Conrad and a friend catch up. Located in a striking 1950s white stucco home off Market Street, Casa Blanca is known for its house-roasted beans and specialty drinks. Order a mug of their signature coffee or try one of their creative seasonal options. Bonus: Their breakfast burrito is a local favorite.

Belly and Steven share a heart-to-heart at Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria, another Season 3 spot. Known for its wood-fired pizzas, hot honey drizzle and craft cocktails, Benny’s is the perfect place to grab a slice. For the full TV moment, request a table near the recognizable cheese grater mural in the back.

Bespoke Coffee in downtown Wilmington is where Belly and Taylor sip iced lattes and chat about life. Recreate the scene with a chocolate croissant and two specialty iced coffees. Don't skip the merch! Bespoke’s branded gear makes for a fun souvenir.

One of the most dramatic moments of the season was filmed at Oceanic in Wrightsville Beach. It’s where Belly and Jeremiah announce their engagement—and where Conrad ends up outside, alone. To relive the moment, request a seat upstairs for panoramic ocean views, or dine outdoors on the Crystal Pier. After dinner, take a stroll to the parking lot and channel your inner Conrad.

Mayfaire Town Center is where you can shop like Belly in episodes 4 and 5. Browse for the perfect dress at one of the many boutiques, or stop by Michaels to see where Belly and Conrad scored deals on wedding décor.

Craving a 70% cacao chocolate cake with a raspberry center and mirror glaze? Head to Little Loaf Bakery and Schoolhouse for sweet treats and see where Belly picked out cupcakes for wedding cake testing. Check their calendar for baking classes, including cake decorating and sourdough. If you want to see the cake from the viral scene, visit One Belle Bakery, the team behind all the stunning showstopper cakes.

Trask Family Farms is where the iconic peach scene was filmed. Be sure to check their website for seasonal highlights, including the legendary corn maze and pumpkin patch in the fall. This family-owned farm is a charming destination well worth the visit.

Step into Cousins nightlife like Belly, Jeremiah and their friends. Sip laid-back drinks downtown at Duck & Dive, just like the guys, or take shots at C Suite Lounge, as the girls did. Cap the evening with late-night ice cream at Kilwin's—the very spot where Belly questioned her feelings for Conrad outside the shop. 

Recreate Belly and Jeremiah’s (messy) wedding weekend in Wilmington. Start with a visit to Covey ILM, an elegant midtown restaurant where the couple’s rehearsal dinner took place. Book a stay at ARRIVE Wilmington, where the wedding party and family gathered, and enjoy dinner at Dram Yard or a cocktail at the outdoor Gazebo Bar. For a touch of pre-wedding pampering, follow the girls’ lead with a relaxing treatment at Coastal Massage & Spa. 

2. Beach Moments

Remember the iconic nighttime bonfire scenes in Season 1? Or when Belly and Conrad ran through the snow on the beach in Season 2? Most of those scenes were captured at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area in Kure Beach. You can head to the main entrance, park in the lot and walk through the main beach access. Though bonfires aren’t permitted and snow is rare in this area, we recommend visiting during the day or at sunset for that golden-hour glow. Be sure to check park hours, as they change seasonally.

In one early episode, Belly and Cam ride bikes near Fort Fisher State Historic Site, offering fans a glimpse of the area’s long coastal sidewalks and wide-open views of the sea. Those scenes were filmed near the Fort Fisher Monument parking area—a great place to park, walk and enjoy the scenery.

Some of the show’s most heartfelt moments, like Belly and Taylor’s pier walk and Belly and Conrad’s unforgettable beachside kiss, were filmed along Crystal Pier in Wrightsville Beach. Head to the south end of Wrightsville Beach to find the pier, where you can enjoy a casual beach day, dine at Oceanic, or start your day with sunrise yoga, offered seasonally.

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk served as the bright, seaside backdrop for the group’s summer rides and outdoor fun in Season 2. Visit the boardwalk in summer for a similar carnival setup, or enjoy year-round amenities like restaurants, boardwalk swings and unique local shops.

Down the road from the Boardwalk, you’ll find The Fat Pelican. This is the bar where Laurel and Susannah stopped in Season 1. This funky little dive bar has been recognized as the No. 1 dive bar in North Carolina and made the top 25 list of dive bars in the U.S. The perfect spot to grab a beer and enjoy a friendly atmosphere. It is self-described as “beach trailer park chic”, which is not far off from the eclectic vibe.

3. Wilmington Highlights

The volleyball tournament from Season 1 wasn’t filmed on the beach, but at Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill,  a local hangout known for casual eats and sand courts in Midtown. They often host special events, live music and tournaments.

Though all exterior arcade shots from Season 2 were filmed on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, the interior arcade and go-kart scenes were filmed at Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. This local gem has been around for more than 28 years and offers year-round fun with mini golf, laser tag, arcade games and more. Or visit in the summer for a waterpark adventure.

Russell’s Gas & Groceries is a real corner store located in Wilmington. This is where Belly stops to stock up on snacks before heading to the summer house.

Serving as the stand-in for Whale of a Tale Bookshop is Papercut Books. This indie bookstore in the heart of downtown is worth a browse. You’ll find new and lightly used books—and yes, you can buy a copy of The Summer I Turned Pretty.

Hell’s Kitchen was used in Season 2 and transformed from a downtown bar into a lounge. This spot has film and TV ties going back to Dawson’s Creek. Stop in for bar food favorites, an extensive beer and cocktail menu, and big-screen sports action.

Rooster & The Crow, a Southern-inspired restaurant that also appeared in Season 2, is a must-try. Located in historic Chandler’s Wharf, the restaurant features Southern classics like fried green tomatoes, truffle fries or fried chicken.

4. College Vibes

Brown University may not be located in Wilmington, but Belly’s future school was filmed across campus at UNCW. The public campus features beautiful walking trails and connects to the Cross-City Trail, allowing you to bike all the way to Wrightsville Beach.

Local Tips

• Rent a bike or golf cart: It’s an easy way to explore the beach towns—just like the characters do.
• Check tide charts: Many beach scenes were filmed at low tide, ideal for recreating your own Cousins Beach moment.
• Keep your eyes open: Wilmington is still an active filming destination. You might spot a cast or crew prepping for the next season.
• Explore more film history: From Dawson’s Creek to One Tree Hill, Wilmington has plenty more filming gems.