5 Iconic American Movies filmed in or near Beaufort, South Carolina (and some honorable mentions)
By Mark A. Leon
Several iconic movies have used the beautiful Beaufort, South Carolina, as their back drop. This scenic coastal town has been used in coming of age films to war movies and everything in between. Here is a look at 5 iconic films in American cinema that were filmed in or around Beaufort, South Carolina including some notable honorable mentions.
Click each film link for a trailer:
1. Forrest Gump (1994): Filmed at locations like Hunting Island State Park, Fripp Island, University of South Carolina Beaufort, and Bay Street.
2. The Big Chill (1983): Shot in Beaufort’s historic district, with the famous Tidalholm Mansion featured prominently.
3. The Prince of Tides (1991): Starring Nick Nolte, filmed in various Beaufort locations including the Beaufort River and Fripp Island.
4. The Great Santini (1979): Based on Pat Conroy’s novel, filmed at the Marine Corps Air Station and Tidalholm Mansion.
5. G.I. Jane (1997): Survival camp scenes were shot on Harbor Island and Hunting Island.
Other notable films include The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000), The Haunted Mansion (2003), Stars Fell on Alabama: (2021), Chasers (1994) and Forces of Nature (1998). Beaufort’s scenic landscapes have made it a popular filming location for Hollywood productions.
Related: Beaufort International Film Festival – February 18 – 23, 2025
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