16 Charleston Spots in Netflix's Outer Banks That You Can Visit - Explore Charleston Blog (2024)

Whether you’re #TeamPogues or #TeamKooks (Who are we kidding? We’re all #TeamPogues, am I right?), we can all agree on the fact that we’d love to be transported into Netflix’s Outer Banks – boating with friends into water-colored sunsets, enjoying outdoor summer movie nights on the green and heading back home to a historic mansion. Did you know that Outer Banks is actually filmed in Charleston? Scroll on to check out 16 spots you can visit from the new Netflix hit and begin planning your visit to explore Charleston the Pogue way!

1. Shem Creek

   

   Mount Pleasant’s Shem Creek is a favorite Lowcountry locale of locals and visitors alike. Most of the Outer Banks’ boating scenes were filmed along Shem Creek, where you can catch one of the best sunset views around. While there, get on the water via a guided kayaking tour with Coastal Expeditions, rent a paddleboard through Nature Adventures or dine alongside the creek at Tavern & Table while spotting flippered friends swimming behind shrimp boats.

2. Lowndes Grove

   

   Were you left dreaming of Sarah’s family’s picturesque waterfront home? That is Lowndes Grove, one of the most beautiful wedding and event venues in the Lowcountry, offering unparalleled sunset views. Thanks to Outer Banks, you got a peek at not only the exterior of the grand circa 1786 main house and glass-enclosed portico, but the stunning interior as well. Click here to discover 5 more historic Charleston homes where you can actually get married. Please note: Lowndes Grove is not open, nor available for tours, to the general public.

3. Kiawah Island Golf Resort

   

   Kiawah Island Golf Resort was the locale for the Kooks’ Midsummer Night’s soiree scene. Dine oceanside at The Ocean Course Club Houseor mark your calendars for the 2021 PGA Championship, to be held at The Ocean Course!

4. Gaillard Center

   

   The stunning Gaillard Center played the role of the UNC Chapel Hill Law Library, which Sarah and John B visited in Outer Banks. The Gaillard Center hosts a number of notable artists, performers, scholars and more. Check out upcoming events here (please note all events are currently tentative due to COVID-19), or plan on attending an event there during 2021 SEWE or Spoleto Festival USA.

5. Morris Island Lighthouse

   

   Known as the Redfield Lighthouse in Outer Banks, and often shown in b-roll throughout the show, the Morris Island Lighthouse is a hidden gem in the Lowcountry. The lighthouse is located off the beaten track on Folly Beach, which makes it even that much more special.

6. Ben Silver

   

   Remember this scene? Ben Silver was the store John B and Sarah walked into for their wardrobe upgrade before heading to UNC Chapel Hill (…or really, the Gaillard Center).

7. Dunes West Golf & River Club

   

   Dunes West Golf & River Club was the location of the dreamy summer evening outdoor movie theatre on Outer Banks. While the club is private, you can dine at The Grille Room, open to the public. INSIDER TIP: If you’d love to recreate the experience, head to Kiawah Island! Freshfields Village hosts outdoor movies on the green throughout the summer, so be sure to check their events calendar often.

8. Washington Square Park

   

   Once they hop off the ferry, Sarah and John B stroll through Washington Square Park. Bring a book and enjoy this quaint, hidden square situated near the Mills House Hotel and along Chalmers Street, one of the few remaining cobblestone streets in Charleston.

9. Old Village of Mount Pleasant

   

   What is portrayed as the Kildare County Sheriff’s Station in Outer Banks is actually a condominium building, located at 281 Venning Street. However, this building is situated in the quaint Old Village of Mount Pleasant, next to cute little shops and restaurants, which can be spotted in b-roll throughout the show. Pop into the Pitt Street Pharmacy, the neighborhood drugstore complete with a soda fountain, for an old-fashioned root beer float or milkshake.

10. The Wreck

    

    Kiara’s parents’ establishment, The Wreck, is actually The Wreck. This casual Shem Creek spot serves fresh-from-the-dock, Lowcountry-style seafood on paper plates, soda in cans and iced tea in plastic cups, adding to its charm.

11. Edmondston-Alston House

    

    The historic Edmondston-Alston House is featured in Outer Banks as the home of Carla Limbrey. When John B and his father visit Charleston in search of the artifact in season three, it is here where Big John gives Carla the fake shroud. This circa 1825 abode is open for tours and presents a unique history of the people, both free and enslaved, who lived and labored on the property.

12. Palmetto Islands County Park

    In season one, John B falls from an observation tower following a fight with Topper. That observation tower is located at Palmetto Islands County Park – a 943-acre park featuring bicycle and walking paths, boardwalks and picnic sites.

13. Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

    

    In season one, you’ll spot the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge when JJ boats under it to reunite with John B. In season three, John B and Big John drive across the bridge on their way to The Charleston Museum. A walk or run across the bridge is a favorite activity for locals and visitors alike – especially during sunrise and sunset hours. Park at the Mount Pleasant Memorial Water Park and head off from there!

14. Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

    

    Did you know The Charleston Museum is America’s first museum? In season three, John B and Big John visit The Charleston Museum in downtown Charleston while searching for the artifact. History buffs, you don’t want to miss this spot!

15. Pitt Street Bridge

    

    Pitt Street Bridge is a beloved spot by Lowcountry locals. Summer strolls at sunset on Pitt Street are simply magical. It is featured in several establishing shots in Outer Banks and in season three, JJ rides his dirt bike to the end of the bridge.

16. Joe Riley Waterfront Park

    

    In season three: episode three, Pope and Cleo have a heart to heart at Joe Riley Waterfront Park. It’s here that you’ll find the iconic Pineapple Fountain along with numerous park benches and swings to relax, rest and enjoy the waterfront view.

Charleston’s beauty and charm has long captured the hearts of both visitors and filmmakers. To discover more Hollywood landmarks in the Holy City, explore our Cinema-Inspired Getaway itinerary.