Are you searching for Outer Banks filming locations in Charleston, SC? With season 5 currently filming, it’s about time that I share all the places where the Netflix hit series comes to life and spoiler alert: it’s not actually filmed in the Outer Banks at all! Whether you’re a fan of the show, planning a trip to Charleston, or just curious about the real-life Kildare Island, this guide shares exactly where to go and how to see it all.
I grew up in Charleston and still live here, so I’ve had a front-row seat to the filming over the years. I’ve walked past crews in historic downtown, spotted familiar buildings on screen, and even noticed my grandparents’ house on Folly Beach in a quick b-roll shot. As a local and travel blogger, I’ve put together a list of the most iconic Outer Banks filming locations you can visit and the best ways to experience them. I also include helpful tips so you know what’s public, what’s private, and how to be respectful while exploring.
Whether you’re a visitor or a local curious to see the magic behind the scenes, I hope this guide helps you feel more connected to both the show and this special place. These locations aren’t just TV backdrops—they’re real parts of our community. Here are the best Outer Banks filming locations around Charleston and how to explore them like a local.
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Best Outer Banks Tours in Charleston, SC
Did you know Charleston offers dedicated Outer banks tours? Whether you want to explore the show’s filming spots on two wheels or get the inside scoop with a private guide, there’s an experience waiting for you.
✅ E-Bike Tour — Rated 4.9 stars
Hop on an electric bike and cruise through historic Mount Pleasant, discovering top Outerbanks filming locations like Pitt Street Bridge and Shem Creek. This guided tour blends sightseeing with fun stories from the show, plus your guide will capture photos and videos of you and your group along the way. It’s active, informative, and perfect for fans who want to cover more ground with ease.
✅ Private Outerbanks Tour with Show Insider — Rated 5 stars
For a truly behind-the-scenes experience, book this private tour led by a former background actor from Outer Banks. Visit iconic filming locations while hearing insider stories about the cast, crew, and production. Beyond the show, you’ll also learn about Charleston’s rich history, culture, and architecture—making this tour a perfect blend of TV magic and local flavor.
Outer Banks Filming Locations in Charleston, SC
If you’re wondering where is Outer Banks filmed….here you go!
1. Lowndes Grove
Arguably the most iconic filming location in Outer Banks is Sarah’s family home, which was filmed at Lowndes Grove—Charleston’s most sought-after waterfront wedding venue. This stunning estate sits on the Ashley River and boasts a rich history dating all the way back to the 1700s. The elegant grounds and grand house make it easy to see why it was chosen for such a pivotal role on the show.
As you see on screen, the property is fully gated and private, so visitors can only admire it from the outside. It’s located in a quiet residential neighborhood, and on weekends especially, you’ll most definitely find a wedding ceremony in full swing. If you visit, please remember to be respectful and quiet as this is a special place for both locals and couples celebrating their big day.
Even from a distance, Lowndes Grove is a breathtaking sight and a true Charleston treasure that fans of the show will recognize instantly.
2. Old Village in Mount Pleasant
The Old Village of Mount Pleasant is a charming, historic neighborhood nestled along the harbor and it’s featured throughout all seasons of Outer Banks. You’ll recognize it as the backdrop for many scenes, including a residential building (218 Venning Street) which doubles as the Sheriff’s Office in the show.
Plus, several beautiful homes here play starring roles in the series. If you’re wondering where Kiara’s parents gorgeous house is, it’s located here. It’s someones actual home so I won’t share the exact locations for obvious reasons.
If you want to experience it for yourself, I recommend booking a lunch at the Post House Inn. It’s a great spot to soak in the local vibe, and after your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint downtown area. You’ll find unique shops and plenty of postcard-worthy views. Fun fact—I once spotted JJ himself having lunch here!
You can also pop into Pitt Street Pharmacy, seen on the show, for a bite and a root beer float.
For a bit of adventure, walk down to the Pitt Street Bridge, the exact place where JJ rode his dirt bike in Season 3. It’s a peaceful spot with gorgeous water views—perfect for a little Outer Banks-inspired exploration.
3. The Wreck
Kiara’s parents’ restaurant in Outer Banks is actually filmed at The Wreck of Richard and Charlene, a laid-back seafood spot right on Shem Creek. If you love fresh, casual seafood with waterfront views, this is the place to be. It’s the kind of local favorite where you can relax, enjoy oysters, and soak up that true Lowcountry vibe.
Fun fact: the restaurant’s name honors a real trawler called Richard & Charlene that was wrecked during Hurricane Hugo back in 1989.
If you’re exploring Outerbanks filming locations, be sure to stop by The Wreck for the food and atmosphere that make it a true Charleston hidden gem.
4. Kiawah Island Golf Resort
In OBX Season 1, the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort provides the stunning backdrop for the Kooks’ Midsummer Party. This exclusive, private community is known for its world-class golf, pristine beaches, and peaceful natural beauty which is exactly the kind of setting that fits the Outer Banks vibe perfectly.
Since Kiawah is a private resort, the best way to experience this location is by booking a stay at the hotel or one of the villas. Golfers can also reserve a tee time at the Ocean Course to walk the grounds where the party scenes were filmed.
If you’re dreaming of visiting, Kiawah offers more than just a glimpse of Outer Banks, it’s a chance to unwind in one of Charleston’s most beautiful coastal escapes!
5. Gaillard Center
In Season 1, the Gaillard Center appears as the library at UNC Chapel Hill when Sarah and John B head off on their college visit-turned-investigation. In real life, it’s not a library at all—but one of Charleston’s most beautiful performance halls.
Located just a few blocks from Marion Square, the Gaillard Center hosts everything from ballet and symphony performances to Broadway tours and comedy shows. It’s one of those spots you could easily walk past without realizing you’ve seen it on screen.
If you’re in town during show season, check the event calendar and grab tickets for a live performance in the same place where your favorite Outer Banks characters filmed a dramatic scene.
6. Ben Silver
Remember when John B and Sarah hit Chapel Hill for a much-needed makeover? That stylish scene was actually filmed at Ben Silver, a classic menswear shop right here in downtown Charleston.
Ben Silver is known for its sharp blazers, bow ties, and timeless Southern style. It’s a real-deal clothing store—not a film set—so if you’re planning to go inside, be ready to shop or browse politely. This is a beloved local business that’s been part of the Charleston scene for decades.
If you’re just curious to see it and want to soak up the vibe without stepping inside, here’s my favorite tip: grab a glass of wine across the street at Bin 152. It’s one of the coziest little wine bars in town, and their sidewalk tables give you the perfect view of Ben Silver. It’s a win-win—Outer Banks nostalgia and a great glass of wine.
7. Charleston Museum
In Season 3, John B and Big John head into the Charleston Museum on the hunt for hidden clues—and while their mission might be top secret, this spot is open to the public. Founded in 1773, it’s actually America’s oldest museum, and it holds an incredible collection of Lowcountry history, from ancient fossils to Civil War relics.
You’ll spot scenes filmed inside the museum’s main hall, where the show’s treasure-hunting energy fits right in. Just maybe don’t try to smuggle out any artifacts like the Pogues—you’ll want to leave those behind for the next generation of history buffs.
If you’re planning to visit, I recommend booking a guided city tour that includes museum admission. It’s a great way to get context for Charleston’s layered past before diving into the exhibits. And even if you’re not a history lover, walking through this space adds a whole new layer to your Outer Banks viewing experience.
8. Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
One of my favorite scenes is when John B and Sarah cruise into Charleston by boat, passing underneath the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. This stunning cable-stayed bridge is not just a dramatic backdrop on the show—it’s a true symbol of Charleston’s skyline.
What’s really cool is that the Ravenel Bridge has a pedestrian and bike lane, so you can actually walk or cycle across it! The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, offering sweeping panoramas of the Charleston Harbor, the historic downtown, and the Cooper River. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting the city—whether you’re a fan of Outer Banks or just love great views.
If you want to experience the same journey from land that John B and Sarah take by water, grab your walking shoes and explore the bridge yourself. It’s a perfect way to connect with the show and see Charleston from a whole new perspective.
9. The Edmondston Alston House
The stunning Edmondston Alston House, located along Charleston’s famous Battery, serves as the elegant home of Carla Limbrey in Outer Banks. This historic house is not just a pretty backdrop, but it’s a beautifully preserved house museum where you can actually step inside and take a guided tour.
Built in the early 1800s, the Edmondston Alston offers a glimpse into Charleston’s rich past with original architecture, period furnishings, and breathtaking views of the Charleston Harbor. Touring the house adds a whole new dimension to the show, letting you experience firsthand the kind of place where the Limbrey family’s story unfolds.
If you visit, be sure to check the tour schedule and take time to explore the Battery’s waterfront promenade afterward.
10. Morris Island Lighthouse
Growing up, I spent plenty of afternoons boating out to the Morris Island Lighthouse—back when it was still accessible by foot or boat—and seeing it featured on Outer Banks feels like a full-circle moment. In the show, Netflix calls it the Redfield Lighthouse, but this iconic beacon is a true Charleston landmark with a rich maritime history.
The lighthouse sits just off the coast near Folly Beach, and though it’s no longer open to the public, it remains a favorite sight for boaters, kayakers, and photographers alike. It’s the kind of place that perfectly captures the adventurous, coastal spirit of the show.
If you’re visiting Charleston, taking a boat tour around Morris Island is a great way to see the lighthouse up close—and imagine yourself as part of the Outer Banks crew navigating these waters.
11. Geechie Seafood
In Outer Banks, Heyward’s Seafood—Pope’s dad’s business—is actually filmed at Geechie Seafood, a beloved fresh-from-the-docks spot right on Shem Creek. If you’re craving authentic Lowcountry seafood, this is where locals come to get the freshest catch in town.
Geechie Seafood isn’t just a filming location. It’s a vibrant part of Charleston’s seafood culture, offering everything from shrimp and oysters to seasonal specialties. It’s not a restaurant, but the perfect place to pick up freshly caught seafood to make dinner at home!
Next time you’re exploring Outer Banks filming sites, swing by Geechie Seafood for a taste of real Charleston life. Pope would approve!
12. Circular Congregational Church & Unitarian Church
These two historic churches in downtown Charleston make an appearance in Season 4 of Outer Banks. The Circular Congregational Church is involved in scenes of John B’s ancestor’s grave, but interior shots were filmed at the Unitarian Church.
The Circular Congregational Church is one of the oldest congregations in the South, with roots dating back to 1681. It’s hauntingly beautiful graveyard feela straight out of a movie set so it’s no surprise the show used it as a dramatic backdrop. The graveyard is Charleston’s oldest, with tombstones from the 1600s and all kinds of historic symbolism.
Just around the corner, the Unitarian Church is another Charleston gem. Built in the late 1700s and remodeled in the 1850s.
Both churches are open to visitors during the week, and even if you’re not chasing OBX filming spots, they’re two of the most beautiful places to wander downtown.
Checkout this ghost tour which takes you into the Unitarian Church graveyard:
The Wrap Up: Outer Banks Filming Locations in Charleston
Whether you’re a die-hard Outer Banks fan or just curious about the filming magic around Charleston, I hope this guide helps you explore the city in a new way. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to check out more of my Charleston favorites—like the best restaurants, unique things to do, and even The Notebook filming locations around town. There’s so much more to see, eat, and experience here. I’ve got you covered!
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