Where was “Safe Haven” Filmed?

Lights, camera, magic! As an ardent movie enthusiast and self-proclaimed film junkie, I’m always fascinated by the captivating world created on the silver screen. One film that beautifully intertwines romance, suspense, and picturesque settings is “Safe Haven.” Based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, this heartfelt tale takes viewers on an emotional journey. In this blog post, we’ll embark on an adventure of our own as we uncover the real-life locations where “Safe Haven” was filmed. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s dive into the enchanting world of this romantic drama!

Southport, North Carolina

Our first stop on this cinematic journey is Southport, North Carolina, a charming coastal town that serves as the primary backdrop for “Safe Haven.” With its quaint streets, historic buildings, and stunning waterfront, Southport perfectly captures the small-town charm portrayed in the film. This picturesque location sets the stage for the blossoming romance between the main characters and provides a sense of tranquility throughout the story.

Brunswick County, North Carolina

Nestled within Brunswick County, several key scenes of “Safe Haven” were filmed. This area’s diverse landscapes, from lush forests to serene beaches, contribute to the film’s atmospheric beauty. The expansive coastline and breathtaking sunsets add a touch of magic to the unfolding love story. With its idyllic scenery, Brunswick County becomes a character of its own, evoking a sense of escapism and serenity for both the characters and the audience.

Old Brunswick County Jail

In addition to the town of Southport, the Old Brunswick County Jail makes a notable appearance in “Safe Haven.” This historic landmark, dating back to the late 19th century, adds a touch of intrigue and suspense to the film. Its distinctive architectural features and storied past create a visually captivating setting for crucial plot developments, enhancing the overall mood and tension.

Bald Head Island

Just off the coast of Brunswick County lies Bald Head Island, a secluded paradise that offers a breathtaking backdrop for the film. Accessible only by ferry, this idyllic location features pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and the iconic Old Baldy lighthouse. With its natural beauty and sense of seclusion, Bald Head Island symbolizes a haven of safety and serenity for the characters, reinforcing the film’s central themes.

In the Footsteps of Love and Magic

As our journey through the mesmerizing filming locations of “Safe Haven” comes to an end, it becomes apparent that the chosen settings played an integral role in bringing the story to life. From the small-town charm of Southport to the untamed beauty of Bald Head Island, each location served as a character in itself, enriching the film’s emotional depth and visual allure. So, the next time you watch “Safe Haven,” take a moment to appreciate the real-world locations that transport you into a world of love, magic, and second chances. Lights, camera, romance!

Okay it may be off the beaten track slightly, but being located to Wilmington does have its benefits. Over the years in Southport has become an increasingly popular location for a variety of movies and TV series to be filmed at. Of all these the most high profile after “Safe Haven” of course is the adaptation of Stephen Kings novel “Under The Dome”, which was turned into a series by CBS.

Normally when you think of film production of course Hollywood immediately springs to mind. But what you may find hard to believe is that Wilmington also houses one of the largest film production facilities in the US as well. This further helped to ensure that filming of the movie went off without too many problems.

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