**"The Summer I Turned Pretty" has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide, drawing them into a world of first loves, summer nights, and the quintessential coming-of-age experience. A significant part of the show's undeniable charm lies in its idyllic setting: Cousins Beach. This seemingly perfect coastal town serves as the backdrop for Belly Conklin's transformative summers, but many fans are left wondering: where exactly does The Summer I Turned Pretty take place, and is Cousins Beach a real place you can visit?** This article will dive deep into the beloved setting of the hit Prime Video series, exploring the fictional allure of Cousins Beach and revealing the real-world locations that bring this dreamy summer haven to life. We'll unpack the magic of Jenny Han's creation, the meticulous details of the filming process, and how the chosen locations contribute to the show's authentic, sun-drenched atmosphere. Prepare to discover the secrets behind Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah's unforgettable summers. *** ### Table of Contents * [The Allure of Cousins Beach: Where Does The Summer I Turned Pretty Take Place?](#the-allure-of-cousins-beach-where-does-the-summer-i-turned-pretty-take-place) * [Fictional Charm: Jenny Han's Vision](#fictional-charm-jenny-hans-vision) * [The Essence of a Summer Haven](#the-essence-of-a-summer-haven) * [From Page to Screen: The Cousins Beach Reality](#from-page-to-screen-the-cousins-beach-reality) * [Unveiling the Real-Life Filming Locations: Wilmington, North Carolina](#unveiling-the-real-life-filming-locations-wilmington-north-carolina) * [Why Wilmington? A Filming Hotspot](#why-wilmington-a-filming-hotspot) * [Exploring the Surrounding Beaches: Carolina Beach and Kure Beach](#exploring-the-surrounding-beaches-carolina-beach-and-kure-beach) * [Inside the Iconic Beach House: Set Design Secrets](#inside-the-iconic-beach-house-set-design-secrets) * [The Impact of Setting on Story: Why Cousins Beach Matters](#the-impact-of-setting-on-story-why-cousins-beach-matters) * [A Look Back: Filming Locations for Seasons 1, 2, and Beyond](#a-look-back-filming-locations-for-seasons-1-2-and-beyond) * [Planning Your Own "Summer I Turned Pretty" Getaway](#planning-your-own-summer-i-turned-pretty-getaway) * [Beyond the Screen: The Enduring Appeal of Coastal Settings](#beyond-the-screen-the-enduring-appeal-of-coastal-settings) *** ### The Allure of Cousins Beach: Where Does The Summer I Turned Pretty Take Place? For fans of "The Summer I Turned Pretty," the name "Cousins Beach" conjures images of sun-kissed skin, late-night bonfires, and the bittersweet pangs of first love. It's the quintessential summer destination, a place where traditions are born, friendships are forged, and hearts are both broken and mended. But as enchanting as it sounds, it's important to clarify a fundamental truth about this beloved locale: the events of "The Summer I Turned Pretty" take place at Cousins Beach, which is a fictional beach town. While the series creates a vivid and tangible sense of place, Cousins Beach itself was created solely for the setting of the drama. #### Fictional Charm: Jenny Han's Vision The author, Jenny Han, conceived Cousins Beach as the perfect backdrop for her coming-of-age trilogy. It's a place that exists in the realm of imagination, designed to embody the ideal summer escape. This fictional status allows Han the creative freedom to imbue Cousins Beach with all the elements necessary for her narrative: a close-knit community, a grand beach house filled with memories, and an atmosphere that perfectly encapsulates the magic and melancholy of adolescence. The very name "Cousins Beach" hints at the familial bonds and generational traditions that are central to the story, suggesting a place where families return year after year, deepening their roots and creating new memories. It’s a place that feels both timeless and deeply personal to the characters who inhabit it. #### The Essence of a Summer Haven Cousins Beach, as portrayed in the books and the series, is more than just a location; it's a character in itself. It represents freedom, nostalgia, and the liminal space between childhood and adulthood. The fictional nature of Cousins Beach allows it to be whatever the story needs it to be: a vibrant party scene, a quiet refuge for reflection, or a stormy backdrop for emotional turmoil. It's a composite of every perfect summer vacation, distilled into one idyllic setting. This makes the question of "where does The Summer I Turned Pretty take place" resonate so deeply with viewers, as they yearn to step into this dreamy world. The descriptions of the beach, the town, and especially the iconic beach house, are so rich and detailed that they feel incredibly real, even if the geographical coordinates don't exist on a map. ### From Page to Screen: The Cousins Beach Reality While Cousins Beach is a product of Jenny Han's imagination, the task of bringing this fictional world to life for the Prime Video series required finding a real-world location that could capture its essence. The production team faced the challenge of translating the intangible magic of a fictional setting into tangible landscapes and structures. This is where the magic of filmmaking comes into play. They needed a place that offered the right coastal aesthetic, a sense of timeless charm, and the practical infrastructure for a major television production. The goal was to make viewers believe that Cousins Beach truly existed, that Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah were indeed spending their summers in this picturesque haven. The success of the show in immersing its audience speaks volumes about how well they achieved this transition from the page to the screen. ### Unveiling the Real-Life Filming Locations: Wilmington, North Carolina So, if Cousins Beach isn't real, then where does The Summer I Turned Pretty take place in terms of filming? The answer lies in the beautiful coastal region of Wilmington, North Carolina. While Cousins Beach is fictional, the series was filmed in the equally scenic Wilmington, North Carolina, and its surrounding beaches. This vibrant port city and its nearby shores provided the perfect stand-in for the beloved fictional town, offering a blend of charming architecture, expansive beaches, and a quintessential East Coast summer vibe. Most filming took place in Wilmington, North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Film Office, making it the true geographical home of the series. #### Why Wilmington? A Filming Hotspot Wilmington is actually a very popular filming location, and about 15 other major productions have chosen it as their backdrop. Its appeal lies in its diverse landscapes, which include historic downtown areas, picturesque beaches, and lush natural settings. The city boasts a well-established film industry infrastructure, including studios, experienced crews, and a film-friendly environment. This makes it an attractive choice for productions seeking authentic coastal aesthetics without the logistical challenges often associated with more remote or less developed areas. For "The Summer I Turned Pretty," Wilmington offered the ideal blend of picturesque scenery and practical advantages, allowing the crew to recreate the idyllic atmosphere of Cousins Beach with remarkable fidelity. The city's charming Southern hospitality and its distinct coastal character perfectly align with the relaxed, summery feel of the show. #### Exploring the Surrounding Beaches: Carolina Beach and Kure Beach To fully capture the expansive and varied coastal environment of Cousins Beach, the production extended beyond Wilmington itself to include its stunning neighboring beaches. Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, both just a short drive from Wilmington, played crucial roles in bringing the show's beach scenes to life. These beaches offer wide stretches of sand, classic boardwalks, and pier settings that perfectly complement the fictional world. * **Carolina Beach:** Known for its lively boardwalk, colorful arcade, and family-friendly atmosphere, Carolina Beach likely contributed to scenes requiring a bustling, classic summer beach town feel. Its pier is a popular spot for fishing and offers panoramic views of the ocean, providing ample opportunities for scenic shots. * **Kure Beach:** A more laid-back and natural beach, Kure Beach offers a quieter, more serene environment. Its historic pier and proximity to natural attractions like Fort Fisher and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher make it a versatile location. Scenes requiring a more secluded or pristine beach setting could have been filmed here, contributing to the diverse visual tapestry of Cousins Beach. The combination of Wilmington's charming townscapes and the natural beauty of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach allowed the production team to piece together the comprehensive vision of Cousins Beach, creating a seamless and believable world for the characters to inhabit. ### Inside the Iconic Beach House: Set Design Secrets Beyond the general coastal setting, one of the most iconic and emotionally resonant locations in "The Summer I Turned Pretty" is the Cousins Beach house itself. This sprawling, sun-drenched home is more than just a building; it's a repository of memories, traditions, and the very heart of the summer experience for Belly and the Fisher brothers. Set decorator Beth Robinson shares details on the beach house's coastal interiors, revealing the meticulous thought and effort that went into crafting this central hub. The interior design of the beach house plays a crucial role in establishing the show's aesthetic and emotional tone. Robinson and her team aimed for a look that felt lived-in, comfortable, and reflective of generations of summer vacations. This meant incorporating: * **Coastal Chic with a Personal Touch:** The decor is undoubtedly coastal, with light colors, natural textures, and plenty of sunlight. However, it avoids feeling sterile or overly trendy. Instead, it features elements that suggest years of family gatherings: mismatched furniture, well-loved books, framed photographs, and quirky souvenirs. * **A Sense of History:** The house needed to feel like it had been in the family for decades, accumulating stories and character with each passing summer. This was achieved through thoughtful layering of decor, from vintage finds to family heirlooms, creating a sense of continuity and warmth. * **Functionality for Summer Living:** The design also had to reflect the practicalities of a busy summer home. Open spaces, durable materials, and comfortable seating were essential for accommodating a house full of teenagers and adults. The kitchen, in particular, feels like a true hub for family meals and late-night snacks. The careful attention to detail in the beach house's interior design significantly enhances the viewer's immersion in the world of "The Summer I Turned Pretty." It makes the fictional Cousins Beach house feel like a real home, filled with the echoes of laughter, arguments, and quiet moments that define the characters' summers. ### The Impact of Setting on Story: Why Cousins Beach Matters The question of where does The Summer I Turned Pretty take place isn't just about geography; it's about the profound impact of setting on narrative. Cousins Beach is not merely a backdrop; it is an active participant in the story, shaping the characters' experiences and emotions. * **A Catalyst for Growth:** The annual return to Cousins Beach marks a period of intense personal growth for Belly. It's where she sheds her childhood skin and navigates the complexities of adolescence, first love, and heartbreak. The unique, isolated bubble of summer at Cousins allows for heightened emotions and accelerated development. * **Symbol of Tradition and Change:** The beach house and the town represent a constant, unchanging element in the characters' lives, a place they can always return to. Yet, within this constancy, change is inevitable. The show beautifully explores how traditions evolve, relationships shift, and individuals grow, all against the familiar, comforting canvas of Cousins Beach. * **Emotional Resonance:** The setting imbues the story with a deep sense of nostalgia and longing. For many viewers, Cousins Beach embodies the ideal summer, evoking memories of their own youthful experiences or dreams of what summer could be. This emotional connection to the setting makes the characters' journeys even more relatable and impactful. * **A World Apart:** The isolation of a summer beach town creates a micro-universe where the outside world fades away, allowing the characters to focus intensely on each other and their own internal struggles. This intensifies the drama and the emotional stakes, making every moment feel more significant. Without the specific atmosphere and traditions tied to Cousins Beach, the narrative of "The Summer I Turned Pretty" would lose much of its charm and emotional depth. The setting is intrinsically woven into the fabric of the story, making it an indispensable element of the show's success. ### A Look Back: Filming Locations for Seasons 1, 2, and Beyond With the release of season 3 of "The Summer I Turned Pretty" in July, fans are eager to see where the story takes them next. Seasons one and two established the visual identity of Cousins Beach firmly in Wilmington, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas. The consistency in filming locations helps maintain the illusion of a single, cohesive fictional town. For both seasons, the production team meticulously scouted and utilized various spots within Wilmington and the nearby beaches to create the diverse scenes viewers have come to love. From the sun-drenched beach scenes to the bustling town events and the intimate moments within the beach house, all elements were carefully pieced together using real locations. While Cousins Beach itself was created solely for the setting of the drama "The Summer I Turned Pretty," there are a few actual filming locations you can head to, as well as general areas that capture the show's vibe. The commitment to returning to these established locations ensures that the visual continuity of Cousins Beach remains intact, allowing fans to feel like they are truly revisiting a beloved place each season. ### Planning Your Own "Summer I Turned Pretty" Getaway While you can't book a stay at the "Cousins Beach Resort" because where does The Summer I Turned Pretty take place is a fictional locale, you can absolutely plan a trip to the real-life filming locations in Wilmington, North Carolina, and its surrounding beaches. This area offers a fantastic summer vacation experience that captures much of the charm seen in the series. Here's what you might experience: * **Explore Wilmington's Historic Downtown:** Stroll along the Riverwalk, visit charming boutiques, and dine at waterfront restaurants. The architecture and atmosphere of downtown Wilmington can evoke the quaint town feel of Cousins Beach. * **Beach Days at Carolina Beach or Kure Beach:** Spend your days lounging on the sand, swimming in the ocean, or trying your hand at surfing. These beaches offer the quintessential East Coast summer experience, complete with piers and boardwalks. * **Visit Local Eateries:** While specific restaurants from the show might be sets, Wilmington boasts a vibrant culinary scene with plenty of seafood shacks and casual eateries that fit the summer vibe. * **Seek Out Filming Spots (Unofficially):** While tours might not be formally established for "The Summer I Turned Pretty," fans can certainly visit public areas that were used for filming. The general atmosphere of the beaches and the town will give you a taste of the show's world. Remember to be respectful of private property. * **Embrace the Summer Vibe:** The key to a "Summer I Turned Pretty" getaway is to immerse yourself in the relaxed, carefree spirit of a coastal summer. Enjoy the sunsets, the ocean breeze, and the company of loved ones, just like Belly and her friends. A trip to Wilmington offers a unique opportunity to connect with the series on a deeper level, experiencing the landscapes that brought Cousins Beach to life. ### Beyond the Screen: The Enduring Appeal of Coastal Settings The fascination with "where does The Summer I Turned Pretty take place" speaks to a broader human desire for idyllic coastal escapes. Beach towns, whether real or fictional, hold a special place in our collective imagination. They symbolize: * **Freedom and Escape:** The ocean represents vastness and possibility, offering a sense of liberation from daily routines and responsibilities. * **Nostalgia:** For many, beach vacations are tied to childhood memories, evoking a powerful sense of nostalgia and simpler times. * **Romance:** The picturesque scenery, sunsets, and relaxed atmosphere make coastal settings inherently romantic, perfect for blossoming love stories. * **Community:** Many beach towns foster a strong sense of community, especially during the summer months, where people return year after year, building lasting connections. * **Timelessness:** Despite the passage of time, the rhythm of the tides and the endless horizon provide a sense of continuity and enduring beauty. "The Summer I Turned Pretty" taps into all these elements, creating a world that is both aspirational and deeply relatable. The fictional Cousins Beach, brought to vivid life by the real-world beauty of Wilmington, North Carolina, continues to be a powerful draw for audiences, proving that the magic of summer, love, and self-discovery is truly timeless when set against the perfect coastal backdrop. The enduring appeal of coastal settings ensures that stories like Belly's will continue to resonate for generations to come. *** In conclusion, while the dreamy Cousins Beach exists only in the pages of Jenny Han's novels and the screen of Prime Video, the spirit of "The Summer I Turned Pretty" is very much alive in the real-world beauty of Wilmington, North Carolina, and its surrounding beaches like Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. The meticulous efforts of the production team, from scouting locations to designing the iconic beach house, have successfully translated a beloved fictional setting into a tangible, breathtaking world. The question of where does The Summer I Turned Pretty take place leads us not to a single spot on a map, but to a blend of creative vision and cinematic execution. It reminds us that sometimes, the most magical places are those crafted from imagination, brought to life through dedicated artistry. Have you visited Wilmington, North Carolina? Did it feel like Cousins Beach to you? Share your thoughts and favorite summer memories in the comments below! And if you enjoyed this deep dive, be sure to explore our other articles on your favorite TV show locations and the magic behind the scenes.
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