If you’ve been captivated by Netflix’s new series The Waterfront, you’re not alone. Fans are buzzing about the show’s gripping family saga, stunning coastal backdrops, and the mystery surrounding its filming sites. The big question everyone’s asking: where was the show Waterfront filmed? The answer takes us to the heart of North Carolina’s picturesque coast, where production brought the fictional town of Havenport to life.
The Waterfront is set in the made-up fishing community of Havenport, but the magic happens in real-life Wilmington and Southport, North Carolina. Creator Kevin Williamson, known for hits like Scream and Dawson’s Creek, chose these locations for their authentic coastal charm and personal significance. Williamson grew up in the region, and his deep connection to the area shines through every frame.
Wilmington and Southport: The Heart of The Waterfront
Wilmington serves as the primary production hub for The Waterfront. The city’s historic districts, bustling waterfronts, and iconic landmarks provided the perfect canvas for the Buckley family’s story. Key filming spots in Wilmington included the Suites On Market motel, the Cotton Exchange shopping complex along the Riverfront, North Front Street in the Historic District, the private Cape Fear Club, and the Little Drum Landing event venue on Ann Street. These locations helped create the show’s atmospheric blend of beauty and tension.
Southport, a small coastal town near Wilmington, played an equally important role. The town’s quaint streets, marinas, and local restaurants became stand-ins for Havenport’s fishing empire. Notable spots featured in the series include Fishy Fishy Cafe (doubling as the Buckleys’ restaurant), Morningstar Marina, and Potter’s Seafood. The Southport Community Building and Longshoremen’s Union building also appeared on screen, adding to the show’s sense of place.
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Behind the Scenes: How The Waterfront Brought Havenport to Life
Principal photography for The Waterfront took place from August to December 2024, with the cast and crew immersing themselves in the local culture. The production team blended real locations with studio sets, ensuring every scene felt authentic. Wrightsville Beach, just east of Wilmington, and Carolina Beach were also used for additional waterfront visuals, enhancing the show’s coastal atmosphere.
Kevin Williamson’s personal history with the area is a running theme throughout production. He often pointed out connections to his past projects, such as I Know What You Did Last Summer, which was also filmed in Southport. The cast, including Melissa Benoist and Jake Weary, quickly fell in love with the region, bonding over group dinners at local favorites like Seabird restaurant.
The show’s social media presence has only fueled interest in these real-world locations. Southport city officials shared behind-the-scenes glimpses on Instagram, highlighting filming at popular spots like Fishy Fishy Cafe and Morningstar Marina. These posts have already sparked a surge in tourism, with fans eager to visit the places they’ve seen on screen.
Key Points: The Waterfront Filming Locations at a Glance
- Wilmington, NC: Main production hub, featuring historic districts, the Cotton Exchange, Cape Fear Club, and Little Drum Landing.
- Southport, NC: Stand-in for Havenport, with filming at Fishy Fishy Cafe, Morningstar Marina, Potter’s Seafood, Southport Community Building, and Longshoremen’s Union.
- Additional Locations: Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach used for extra coastal scenery.
- Production Period: August to December 2024.
- Creator’s Touch: Kevin Williamson’s personal ties to the region and past projects add authenticity.
Why The Waterfront’s Locations Matter
The choice of Wilmington and Southport isn’t just about scenery—it’s about storytelling. These towns embody the tight-knit, working-class communities central to The Waterfront’s plot. The show’s blend of gritty realism and high-production visuals is only possible because of the real-life settings and the people who live there.
Fans watching The Waterfront can almost feel the salt air and hear the gulls as the Buckleys navigate betrayal, family secrets, and the perilous world of drug smuggling. The locations become characters in their own right, shaping the mood and stakes of every episode.
What’s Next for The Waterfront and Its Filming Locations?
With The Waterfront now streaming and drawing strong viewership, interest in its filming locations is soaring. Local businesses in Wilmington and Southport are already seeing increased foot traffic, and tourism officials expect a summer surge as fans plan their own coastal adventures.
The show’s success also highlights the growing trend of using real locations to create immersive, authentic worlds. For The Waterfront, this approach has paid off, making the series a visual and emotional standout in Netflix’s lineup.
Experience the Real-Life Waterfront for Yourself
If you’re a fan of The Waterfront, why not visit the places that brought Havenport to life? Wander the historic streets of Wilmington, enjoy fresh seafood at Fishy Fishy Cafe in Southport, or take in the views at Carolina Beach. You’ll see firsthand why these locations captured Kevin Williamson’s heart—and why they’re perfect for your next coastal getaway.