If you've been eagerly awaiting the release of The Waterfront, Netflix’s newest coastal drama, you’re not alone—and if parts of the scenery look familiar, you’re definitely not imagining things.

Filmed in the picturesque backdrop of North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands, The Waterfront is more than just compelling storytelling, it’s a visual love letter to the charm, beauty, and personality of our coastal communities. From waterfront eateries to bustling marinas, the show captures the essence of life by the sea, and locals might just spot a few familiar places in the final cut.

a movie production truck parked on a filming set at the Morningstar Marina in Southport, NC

Pictured: Film crews at Morningstar Marina in Southport, NC. Production trucks were designed to look like Buckley Seafood Co. vehicles.

Last year, production crews descended on several beloved spots in the area, including Fishy Fishy Cafe, Potter’s Seafood, Morningstar Marina, the City Pier and the Southport Community Building. Whether it was dressing up a dockside café for a pivotal character meeting or adding props to make the marina feel like a working boatyard, it was exciting to see the Brunswick Islands temporarily turn into a Hollywood set.

A crane holding a green screen for movies behind a shrimp boat

Pictured: Crews hang green screen sheets above Potter's Seafood in Southport, NC

As you binge the series, keep an eye out for those unmistakable local landmarks. Seeing our small-town icons featured on a global platform is a proud moment for the community and a reminder of how special this region really is…

And who knows? With the buzz already building around The Waterfront, don’t be surprised if fans start showing up to grab a bite at Fishy Fishy or stroll along the City Pier themselves.

A movie prop sign for the Havenport Town Pier in Southport, NC

Pictured: The Southport City Pier was renamed the Town of Havenport Town Pier for the show. 

While The Waterfront might be the newest series to spotlight our scenic shoreline, it’s certainly not the first! The Brunswick Islands have played a starring role in numerous film and television productions over the years, thanks to their cinematic beauty and welcoming communities. Curious about what else was filmed here? Check out our blog post to discover even more iconic moments captured right here on the coast.

To spot the film locations, explore the real-life charm, and plan your own coastal escape to NC’s Brunswick Islands, please visit www.ncbrunswick.com.