Outer Banks, South Carolina
Outer Banks, North South Carolina
By Capt. Olivia
Most people associate the Outer Banks with North Carolina, but if you’re a fan of the Netflix show Outer Banks, you just may think of South Carolina first. From Folly Beach to Mount Pleasant and beyond, the Lowcountry has been the real-life stand-in for the fictional Kildare Island since the show began.
Many of the scenes on boats, beaches, or anywhere around the water were filmed where we operate in the Folly Beach/James Island area. Some of the most recognizable Outer Banks filming spots are ones we regularly pass on our boat tours!



- The Chateau: Also known as John B’s house, this marshfront property was a central hub for filming season 1, and is best seen by boat.
- Bowens Island: A favorite local restaurant that served as the “Rockfish Bar” where John B and JJ go looking for info in season 4.
- Morris Island Lighthouse and Inlet: The Morris Island lighthouse serves as the “Redfield Lighthouse” and makes a few appearances throughout the seasons. Other scenes filmed nearby include when the crew finds the boat wreck, and when Sarah Cameron gets stung by a jellyfish, both in season 1.
- The Boneyard on Folly Beach: This ethereal setting is seen as abackdrop for a few beach scenes throughout the show.
- Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge: This bridge is arguably the most recognizable and iconic Charleston structure – seen multiple times in the show, and along much of our tour route!
- Crosby’s Fish & Shrimp Co: This classic seafood shop on Folly Creek is dressed up as a 7-11 for the show. The gang stops by in season 4 to check their ATM balance. We highly recommend you stopping by for some fresh-as-it-gets shrimp while on Folly.

Charleston’s combination of historic charm, lush waterways, and iconic coastal imagery made it an ideal stand-in for the Outer Banks. If you’ve been on a Tideline Tours boat tour, there’s a good chance you’ve already seen a few of these Outer Banks filming locations up close. If not, come join us for a mix of history, nature, and local fun facts like this!