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.
The Summer I Turned Pretty Film Locations
- Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria is where Belly and Steven share a heart-to-heart over pizza at this well-known foodie 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.
- Casa Blanca Coffee Roaster is featured in Episode 1 of season 3; 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.
- 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.
- Oceanic in Wrightsville Beach is where one of the most dramatic moments of the series was filmed. 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.
- Little Loaf Bakery and Schoolhouse is where Belly picked out cupcakes for wedding cake testing. Remember the 70% cacao chocolate cake with a raspberry center and mirror glaze Jer wanted? They have been known to make a special appearance on the menu from time to time. Check their calendar for baking classes, including cake decorating and sourdough. If you want to see the actual 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 and you-pick flowers in the spring, summer and fall. This family-owned farm is a charming destination well worth the visit. *PSA: They do not sell peaches.
- Duck & Dive is where you can step into Cousins nightlife like Belly, Jeremiah and their friends. Sip laid-back drinks downtown at this well-known dive bar 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 is where you can grab a scoop of ice cream at the very spot Belly questioned her feelings for Conrad in Season 3 (questionably the beginning of the end).
- Covey ILM is an elegant midtown restaurant where Belly and Jeremiah's rehearsal dinner took place.
- ARRIVE Wilmington is where the wedding party and family gathered. Book a room at this boutique hotel in Downtown Wilmington and wander the patio and gazebo bar to recreate the dramatic moments family and friends experienced during the wedding weekend in Season 3.
- Dram Yard is the restaurant attached to Arrive and has an amazing menu in a very vibey atmosphere. This is where the crew ate the morning after the wedding.
- Coastal Massage & Spa is where you can go to find that touch of pre-wedding pampering the girls had with comfy robes and a relaxing treatment (Drama not included).
- Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is where the iconic nighttime bonfire scenes in Season 1 and Belly and Conrad ran had their snow on the beach moment in Season 2. 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.
- Fort Fisher State Historic Site is where Belly and Cam rode bikes, 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.
- 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.
- The Fat Pelican is the bar where Laurel and Susannah stopped in Season 1. This funky little dive bar in Carolina Beach 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.
- Capt'n Bill's Backyard Grill is where the volleyball tournament from Season 1 wasn’t filmed on the beach. A local hangout known for casual eats and sand courts in Midtown. They often host special events, live music, and tournaments.
- Jungle Rapids is where the interior arcade and go-kart scenes were filmed. 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.
- Papercut Books served as the stand-in for Whale of a Tale Bookshop. 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 as well as find some fun Cousins Beach merch!
- 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.
- Smith Creek Park, a park in midtown, is where Conrad went for a jog in Season 3. This park has paved trails perfect for jogging, biking and stroller walks.
- Goody-Goody Omelet House is a classic diner-style breakfast spot where Laurel and Conrad met to discuss Belly and Jeremiah's wedding. Located on Market Street, this local spot has been serving for 30 years to a loyal clientele of doctors, truckers, EMT crews, traveling salespersons, filmmakers, and just about every other type of person.
- Circa 1922 is a downtown restaurant known for its elevated seasonal American fare and it is where Conrad and Jeremiah meet their dad for a meal.
- The Cotton Exchange, a historic building in Downtown Wilmington filled with local shops, was the backdrop for young Belly and Conrad in Season 3.
- Summer Rest Trail is where you can walk near Wrightsville Beach and take in some familiar backdrops from the show, including the flashback scene of the young friend group biking or where Conrad and Belly go for a drive.
The end of season 3 wrapped in Paris, and, let’s be honest, it was a big win for Conrad fans. But we’re even more excited for a return to Cousins in the upcoming feature film of "The Summer I Turned Pretty", confirmed for filming in Wilmington and Beaches! Jenny Han will bring us one final, important chapter in Belly’s story. Release date: TBD! In the meantime, check out our full 3-day itinerary for a full weekend of film scenes planned out for you!
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.
