Filming Locations in Beaufort, SC: Visit Forrest Gump & Prince of Tides Movie Sites

Introduction

Welcome to Beaufort, South Carolina, the stunning Lowcountry backdrop for some of Hollywood’s most beloved films. If you’re searching for the iconic filming locations in Beaufort, SC, you’ve come to the right place. This charming historic town, with its antebellum architecture and moss-draped oaks, has starred alongside A-listers like Tom Hanks and Barbra Streisand, transforming its streets and marshes into a slice of cinematic history. This comprehensive guide will be your ultimate resource, taking you to the exact spots where Forrest Gump and The Prince of Tides came to life, while also revealing hidden gems from other productions. We’ll provide behind-the-scenes stories, practical tips for your visit, and explain why this area, often called “Hollywood South,” continues to captivate directors and audiences alike. Get ready for your personal, in-depth behind-the-scenes tour.

Why Beaufort? The Allure of the Lowcountry for Filmmakers

Why are filming locations in Beaufort, SC so perpetually sought after? The answer lies in a rare combination of natural beauty, architectural authenticity, and community support that is increasingly difficult to find.

• Architectural Authenticity: Beaufort’s historic district is one of the largest in the country, boasting over 300 acres of antebellum homes, churches, and live oak trees draped in Spanish moss. For directors, this means minimal set dressing is required to transport audiences to another time, whether it’s the 1950s American South or the jungles of Vietnam.
• Diverse Landscapes: Within a short radius, filmmakers can access a vast portfolio of looks: the serene Beaufort River and expansive marshlands, the pristine beaches of Hunting Island, the military precision of Parris Island, and the small-town Americana feel of downtown streets. This variety makes the region a one-stop-shop for location scouts.
• Supportive Community: Beaufort has a long and welcoming history with the film industry, dating back to the 1950s. Locals are accustomed to productions, and the community infrastructure is geared towards supporting them, making logistics smoother than in less experienced towns.

This unique trifecta has firmly cemented Beaufort’s reputation as “Hollywood South,” a go-to destination for major motion pictures and television series seeking authenticity and beauty.

The Forrest Gump filming locations

While the iconic bench scenes were filmed in Savannah, the Beaufort area provided several crucial and unforgettable backdrops for Forrest’s epic journey across decades of American history.

1. The “Gump House” – Bluff Plantation

The iconic white-columned home that represents Forrest’s childhood is actually Bluff Plantation, located on US-21 in nearby Yemassee, SC (about a 30-minute drive from downtown Beaufort).

• In the Film: The home is shown in beautiful wide shots as young Forrest runs away from bullies on the dirt road, his leg braces flying apart. It later appears as the home where a recovering Lieutenant Dan comes to stay and where Forrest starts his shrimping business.
• Behind the Scenes: The producers needed a home that looked authentically rural and Southern. Bluff Plantation, set back from the road amidst sprawling fields, perfectly fit the bill. The famous dirt road where young Forrest runs is still there.
• How to See It: This is a private residence and active property. Please view it respectfully from the public road. Do not trespass, drive up the driveway, or disturb the residents. This is the most important rule for visiting this location.

2. Parris Island – Forrest’s Army Days

The marine corps recruitment depot at Parris Island seamlessly stood in for the Army boot camp where Forrest and Bubba meet Drill Sergeant Foley.

• In the Film: The iconic scene where Forrest effortlessly assembles his rifle while the Sergeant yells, “Gump! What’s your sole purpose in this Army?!” was filmed here. The classic barracks and parade grounds of Parris Island provided the perfect military aesthetic.
• How to See It: Parris Island is an active military base. Public access is limited, but you can visit the excellent Parris Island Museum (check their website for hours and access requirements) which details the rich history of the Marines, though it does not specifically focus on the film.

3. The Vietnam River Scenes – The Beaufort River & Local Marshes

The lush, watery landscapes of Vietnam were filmed right at home in the Lowcountry. The scenes of Forrest’s platoon trudging through water were shot in the swamps and tributaries feeding into the Beaufort River.

• In the Film: The platoon’s patrols and the devastating ambush that leads to Bubba’s death and Forrest’s heroic rescue of his comrades.
• Behind the Scenes: The production team brought in native cypress trees and tropical plants to enhance the Vietnamese look, but the fundamental landscape is pure Lowcountry. The humid, hazy atmosphere required no special effects.
• How to See It: The best way to experience this landscape is by taking a local kayak or boat tour through the marshes. Companies like Lowcountry Kayak Tours offer excursions where you’ll instantly recognize the serene, otherworldly environment that doubled for Southeast Asia.
  

The Prince of Tides filming locations

Pat Conroy’s beloved novel, set in South Carolina, found its perfect visual match in his beloved hometown. Director Barbra Streisand filmed extensively in Beaufort, creating unforgettable filming locations in Beaufort, SC that are deeply woven into the fabric of the city.

The stunning antebellum home used as the childhood residence of Tom Wingo (Nick Nolte) is Tidalholm, located at 1 Laurens Street in the historic Point neighborhood. This is one of the most photographed homes in Beaufort.

• In the Film: The home is central to the flashbacks of Tom and Savannah’s traumatic childhood. Its beauty contrasts sharply with the painful memories housed within.
• Behind the Scenes: The home was built in 1853 and is a private residence. The owners have graciously allowed its use in several films, but they value their privacy deeply.
• How to See It: This is another private home. It is easily and clearly visible from the public street. Please be respectful, do not walk onto the property, and enjoy it as part of a walking or biking tour of The Point.

1. Downtown Beaufort – Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park

The town’s beautiful waterfront park features in several scenes, offering a serene backdrop for the film’s more reflective moments.

• In the Film: Tom Wingo is seen strolling and reflecting by the water, grappling with his past and his present.
• How to See It: The park is fully public and open to all. It’s a perfect spot to sit on a bench, enjoy an ice cream, and imagine the film crew at work. It’s also a central hub for many local festivals.

2. The Schoolhouse – Beaufort Elementary School

The charming red-brick building that served as the school attended by the young Wingos is actually Beaufort Elementary School on Scott Street.

• In the Film: Featured in flashback sequences.
• How to See It: The school is an active public school. You can view the exterior from the street, but be mindful of school hours, avoid disruption, and never block driveways or bus lanes.

Other Famous Films Shot in Beaufort

Your tour of filming locations in Beaufort, SC doesn’t end there. The area’s filmography is rich and varied. Keep an eye out for locations from:

• The Big Chill (1983): The funeral scene was filmed at St. Helena’s Anglican Church on St. Helena Island.
• The Great Santini (1979): Another Pat Conroy adaptation, filmed in various local spots, including the Beaufort Naval Hospital and the downtown area.
• G.I. Jane (1997): Parts of this Demi Moore film were shot on Parris Island and in the surrounding waters, leveraging the area’s military presence.
• Something to Talk About (1995): This Julia Roberts drama used several downtown Beaufort homes and streets.
• The Jungle Book (1994): The live-action Disney film used the sprawling landscapes of Fripp Island to represent Mowgli’s jungle.

For a deeper dive into local history that encompasses its cinematic past, a visit to the Beaufort History Museum is highly recommended.

FAQs 

Q: Can I go inside the Gump house or the Prince of Tides house?
A: No. Both Bluff Plantation and Tidalholm are privately owned. Please admire them respectfully from the public street.

Q: What is the best way to see all the movie sites?
A: The downtown sites are walkable. For out-of-town locations, you’ll need a car. The best way is a local guided tour that shares behind-the-scenes stories.

Q: Were any indoor scenes filmed in Beaufort?
A: Yes, though many were shot on soundstages. Some local buildings have been used for indoor shots. Tour guides often have the best insider info.

Q: Is there a museum about the movies in Beaufort?
A: There isn’t a dedicated movie museum, but the Beaufort History Museum often has information about the town’s film history. The Beaufort SC Visitor Center is also a great resource.

Q: What other movies were filmed in Beaufort, SC?
A: Beaufort has a long list of credits! Other notable films include The Jungle Book (1994), Something to Talk About (1995), and Rules of Engagement (2000).

Your Beaufort Feature Presentation

Exploring the filming locations in Beaufort, SC, is more than just a scavenger hunt for movie magic. It’s a unique way to connect with the town’s deep history and stunning natural beauty. You’ll see firsthand why directors from Robert Zemeckis to Barbra Streisand were so captivated by this corner of the Lowcountry. It’s an experience that allows you to walk in the footsteps of characters and filmmakers, seeing the real place where fiction and history beautifully collide.

After a day of playing movie tourist, you’ll want a comfortable, central place to rest and replay your favorite scenes. City Loft Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Beaufort, puts you within easy walking distance of many of these iconic sites. With modern amenities and a perfect location, we are the ideal home base for your cinematic exploration. Book your stay with us and experience the magic of Hollywood South for yourself.