Charleston: Outer Banks Film Locations Tour — A Deep Dive into TV Set Secrets and Southern Charm
If you’ve ever watched Netflix’s hit series Outer Banks and found yourself curious about the real-life spots where the show comes to life, this tour might just be your dream escape. Offered by Eclectic Tours of Charleston, the Outer Banks Film Locations Tour blends cinematic magic with the scenic beauty of Charleston, creating a unique experience for fans and curious travelers alike. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-curated adventure filled with insider stories, stunning views, and a touch of Hollywood sparkle.
What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s completely private, ensuring a personalized experience. Second, the guide’s background as a former background actor from multiple seasons enriches the storytelling with behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Lastly, the luxury SUV and thoughtful touches like snacks and bottled water add comfort and value. The one potential consideration might be the minimum of two guests per booking, so solo travelers need to team up or look elsewhere. This tour suits fans of the series, families with teens, or anyone interested in exploring Charleston’s sights from a fresh, pop-culture-focused perspective.
Good To Know
- Private, personalized experience with a licensed tour guide and background actor.
- Visits 15+ filming locations and hidden gems not covered by other tours.
- Behind-the-scenes stories from the guide, a former TV background actor.
- Comfortable luxury SUV with snacks and bottled water included.
- Ideal for fans of Outer Banks and those seeking an intimate, engaging tour.
- Duration of 3 hours makes it a manageable but memorable sightseeing option.
The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Outer Banks Film Locations Tour
This three-hour tour is designed to be a compact yet comprehensive taste of the filming sites scattered around Charleston, blending cinematic history with scenic views and local charm. The tour kicks off in front of the Hotel Emeline, where your guide, a licensed expert with a background in the series, will greet you.
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Visiting Iconic Locations: Tannyhill, The Wreck, and Heyward’s Seafood
The essence of the tour is visiting more than 15 locations associated with the series. Expect to see Tannyhill, the fictional Pogues’ home, and The Wreck, the island hangout of the main characters. These spots not only carry the show’s storylines but also offer stunning backdrops of Charleston’s historic architecture and marshy landscapes.
Heyward’s Seafood is another highlight, a real restaurant that plays a part in the show. You’ll get a chance to walk around and hear the stories about how these locations were used on set. Reviewers like Cleo from Canada appreciated the guide’s knowledge and friendly nature, noting how she shared fun insights and set stories that brought the scenes to life.
Hidden Gems and Local Spots
One of the best aspects of this tour is its focus on lesser-known spots. Instead of just the main filming locations, your guide will take you to hidden gems that other tours don’t cover — places that are often overlooked but add richness to the experience. This creates a sense of discovery, making the trip feel more personalized and authentic.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Re-Enactments
The highlight for many is the storytelling. As a background actor himself, your guide brings a wealth of backstage knowledge, sharing anecdotes from set, casting insights, and production tidbits. A reviewer mentioned how Jill (the guide) made the experience engaging with her enthusiasm and insider stories.
Plus, the tour includes a re-enactment scene with a script, giving visitors a fun, interactive element. You’ll get to act out a quick scene, which adds a playful touch and makes the whole experience more memorable.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyComfort and Convenience
Traveling in a luxury Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, the ride itself is part of the pleasure. The vehicle is comfortable, air-conditioned, and large enough for private groups of 2 to 4 guests, ensuring a cozy and exclusive environment. The inclusion of snacks and bottled water keeps everyone refreshed during the journey.
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Extra Stops and Shopping
A brief visit to a local jewelry store and pharmacy is included, where guests can browse OBX-themed jewelry, stickers, or grab a snack. While optional, these stops add a personalized touch, giving you a chance to pick up souvenirs or treats that tie into the series or Charleston.
The Experience: What You’ll Love
From the reviews, it’s clear that guests genuinely enjoy the knowledgeable guides, with Jill earning high praise for her enthusiasm and friendliness. Her background as an actor lends authenticity and depth, making the stories more engaging.
The scenic views of Charleston add an extra layer of enjoyment, especially for those who appreciate the mix of natural marshlands, historic architecture, and coastal charm. For families or teens, the experience of standing in the footsteps of Outer Banks characters is a highlight, as noted by parents and teens alike.
The small group size (maximum four guests) means you get personalized attention, and the private setting allows for questions, photo stops, and a relaxed pace. The inclusion of snacks and water, along with the re-enactment scene, elevates the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to a fun, interactive adventure.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $225 per person for a three-hour private tour, this might seem steep compared to larger group tours. However, considering the private, personalized experience, insider stories, and luxury transportation, many find it offers excellent value, especially for fans of the series or those wanting a more intimate, story-rich exploration.
The reviews consistently praise the guide’s friendliness and expertise, which enhances the value. Plus, the stops are thoughtfully chosen with a mix of popular and hidden sites, giving you a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is perfect for Outer Banks fans wanting to see filming locations in a relaxed, private setting. It’s also great for families with teenagers, who will love the behind-the-scenes stories and interactive scenes. If you prefer smaller groups, personalized attention, and a mix of cinematic magic with Charleston scenery, this tour ticks all the boxes.
Travelers interested in local history and culture will also appreciate the guide’s insights and the chance to explore lesser-known spots. It’s a perfect way to add a pop-culture twist to your Charleston trip.
The Sum Up
This Outer Banks Film Locations Tour offers a clever blend of TV fandom, scenic sightseeing, and storytelling in a private, comfortable setting. The guide’s background in the series ensures engaging, insider insights that bring each location to life, making it more than just a typical tour. The luxury vehicle and small group size guarantee a relaxed and personalized experience that feels special.
While the price may be a consideration, many guests feel that the value of personalized storytelling, exclusive access, and the fun re-enactment justifies it. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply enjoy seeing Charleston from a fresh perspective, this tour delivers authentic, memorable moments.
For those wanting to step into the world of Outer Banks and explore Charleston’s scenic beauty in style, this tour is a worthwhile choice. It’s a fantastic way to combine pop culture with local charm, making your trip to South Carolina truly unforgettable.
FAQ
Is this tour private?
Yes, it is a private experience with a maximum of 4 guests per booking, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
What’s included in the price?
You’ll receive bottled water, snacks, a re-enactment scene with a script, and the guidance of a licensed registered tour guide in a luxury Mercedes-Benz GLC 300.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours, usually in the morning, making it a manageable addition to your day.
Where do we meet?
Start your adventure in front of Hotel Emeline at the Valet area.
Can I see specific locations like Tannyhill or The Wreck?
Yes, the tour visits key filming sites such as Tannyhill and The Wreck, along with other notable locations used in the series.
Are there any shopping stops?
Yes, the tour includes visits to a local jewelry store and pharmacy where you can browse OBX-themed items or pick up souvenirs.
Is this suitable for kids?
Yes, many reviews highlight that teens and families enjoy the interactive storytelling and scenic stops, making it a family-friendly experience.
What if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your trip.
Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring sunglasses, a camera, charged smartphone, credit or cash, and be ready for some fun and storytelling.
To sum it up, whether you’re a Outer Banks superfan, a lover of Charleston’s charm, or simply after a unique sightseeing experience, this tour offers a great mix of cinematic magic, local sights, and personalized storytelling. It’s perfect for making your trip memorable, especially if you appreciate behind-the-scenes stories and scenic drives in a cozy setting.
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