Cousins Beach

Like so many of you, I totally fell in love with 'The Summer I Turned Pretty.' Every scene, every longing look, just screamed summer magic, and at the heart of it all was Cousins Beach. I mean, who wouldn't want to spend their summers there, right? For ages, I've been dreaming of that idyllic coastal town, those beautiful houses, and the endless beach days. I kept wondering, is Cousins Beach a real place? And if so, where is Cousins in TSITP? So, I decided to do some digging and make my own pilgrimage! It turns out, Cousins Beach isn't a single, real-life town you can point to on a map, which was a little heartbreaking at first! It's a beautiful, fictional creation from Jenny Han's books and brought to life by the show's incredible production. But don't despair, fellow fans! While Cousins Beach itself is a dream, the magic was brought to life in some absolutely stunning real locations that you can visit. Most of the filming took place in and around Wilmington, North Carolina, and its surrounding beaches. This area truly has that quintessential East Coast charm that perfectly captures the Cousins Beach vibe. I was so excited to discover that places like Fort Fisher, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach were used to create our beloved Cousins. These aren't just random beaches; they have that classic, laid-back atmosphere, complete with beautiful sandy shores, quaint boardwalks, and charming local spots that feel straight out of a storybook. Imagine walking along the pier at Carolina Beach, grabbing an ice cream, and feeling like Belly, Conrad, or Jeremiah might just walk past you. The beach houses here are exactly what you'd picture – weathered wood, porches perfect for relaxing, and ocean views that make your heart ache for summer. When I visited, I made sure to soak it all in. I spent hours just walking along the shore, imagining bonfires and late-night talks. I explored the local shops, looking for little treasures, and found myself picturing Susannah browsing for home decor. The air itself felt different, carrying that salty, nostalgic scent that just screams 'summer.' It's not just about finding specific filming spots (though that's super fun too!), it's about experiencing the feeling of Cousins Beach. It’s about finding a quiet stretch of sand, reading a book by the ocean, and letting the ocean waves wash over you, just like in the show. For anyone else dreaming of their own Cousins Beach adventure, I highly recommend exploring the North Carolina coast. Look for those charming, unpretentious beach towns that boast stunning natural beauty. Find a local diner for breakfast, rent a bike to explore the area, and most importantly, let yourself get lost in the summer feeling. Even if it's not the 'exact' Cousins Beach, you'll find a piece of that magic, and that's what truly matters. It's about creating your own unforgettable summer memories, just like Belly did.