‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ Movie Sequel Set to Film in Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington, North Carolina, is poised to once again develop into the backdrop for the beloved story of Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah as production for a movie sequel to the Amazon Prime Video series “The Summer I Turned Pretty” is slated to begin in late April. The series, which captivated audiences over three seasons, has firmly established Wilmington as “Cousins Beach,” boosting the local film industry and inspiring a dedicated fanbase.

A Return to Wilmywood

The announcement of the film sequel, based on the bestselling book trilogy by Jenny Han, has been met with excitement from both fans and local film industry professionals. The series, which filmed all three seasons in the Wilmington area, became a cultural phenomenon, sparking countless social media discussions and watch parties [1]. Han, who also wrote the original novels, is expected to write and direct the movie [IMDB].

Filming Locations and Local Impact

Throughout its three seasons, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” utilized a variety of Wilmington locations, showcasing the city’s coastal charm and historic downtown. Popular spots featured in the present include Casa Blanca Coffee Roasters and Bespoke Coffee in the downtown area, The Beer Barrio restaurant, and Kilwin’s Ice Cream [1]. The series also filmed extensively at Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach, transforming these coastal destinations into the fictional Cousins Beach [1]. The production’s return is a significant boost for Wilmington’s film industry, which, like many across the nation, has faced challenges in recent years.

The Show’s Cultural Resonance

The third season of “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” which aired in 2025, became a cultural juggernaut, attracting a large audience, particularly among women aged 18 to 34 [1]. The show’s central love triangle – Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah – has become a defining element of the series, propelling actors Lola Tung, Christopher Briney, and Gavin Casalegno to stardom. The series’ success led to the announcement of the movie sequel in 2025, generating considerable anticipation among fans.

Jenny Han’s Vision

Jenny Han’s involvement extends beyond the book series; she also served as a writer, director, and executive producer for the TV adaptation [2]. Her continued creative control over the movie sequel suggests a faithful adaptation of the source material and a continuation of the show’s beloved themes.

Camille’s of Wilmington Featured in the Series

Local boutique Camille’s of Wilmington was also a filming location for the series, specifically for scenes involving a debutante dress shopping experience and eveningwear selection [3]. The store even had its name and logo included in the storyline, a detail that delighted the staff.

UNC Wilmington and UNC Chapel Hill as Filming Doubles

The production also utilized local university campuses for filming. UNC Wilmington served as a stand-in for Brown University, while UNC Chapel Hill, Jenny Han’s alma mater, doubled as Finch College [4].

The return of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” to Wilmington promises not only a continuation of a popular story but also a renewed economic impact for the local film industry and a chance for fans to revisit the magic of Cousins Beach.