21 Breathtaking Beaches That Have Been Movie and TV Set Backdrops

There’s something undeniably magical about a beach scene in a film—the sunlight glittering on the waves, the wind whipping through palm trees, the sound of the ocean underscoring a pivotal moment. These coastal landscapes don’t just set the scene—they steal it. Over the decades, filmmakers have scoured the globe for the perfect stretch of sand or rugged cove to bring their stories to life, and the result is a cinematic treasure map of breathtaking beach locations around the world. Originally a collection of 11, we've expanded our list to 21 stunning beaches that have graced the silver screen—each unforgettable in its own right. From the emerald shores of Hawaii to the dramatic cliffs of Ireland and the secluded bays of Southeast Asia, these beaches are more than just backdrops—they’re characters in the story. Whether you’re chasing the waves of a surf classic, reliving a romantic drama, or walking the sands of a sci-fi saga, these cinematic shores are ready for their close-up… and your next adventure.

1. Maya Bay, Thailand: The Beach's Pristine Paradise

Maya Bay, nestled in Thailand's Phi Phi Islands, gained international fame as the primary setting for the 2000 film "The Beach," starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The bay's crystal-clear waters and towering limestone cliffs provided the perfect backdrop for the film's narrative of an idyllic yet mysterious utopia. The film's release brought a surge of tourists eager to experience this cinematic paradise firsthand. However, the influx of visitors also led to environmental concerns, prompting Thai authorities to temporarily close the bay in 2018 for rehabilitation. This closure highlighted the delicate balance between preserving natural beauty and accommodating tourism. Maya Bay's story is a testament to the powerful influence of cinema on travel and the responsibility that comes with it.

2. Navagio Beach, Greece: Shipwrecked Splendor

Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is one of Greece's most photographed destinations. This secluded cove, accessible only by boat, is famous for its rusting shipwreck resting on its sands. The beach's dramatic cliffs and azure waters made it a captivating location for the 2014 film "The Shallows." While the film itself was a thriller, the serene beauty of Navagio Beach provided a stark contrast to the film's tense narrative. The beach's cinematic appeal lies in its rugged isolation, offering a sense of adventure and mystery. Navagio Beach remains a symbol of Greece's natural allure, drawing visitors who seek both its cinematic history and its picturesque splendor.

3. Cathedral Cove, New Zealand: Chronicles of Narnia's Enchantment

Cathedral Cove, located on New Zealand's Coromandel Peninsula, enchanted audiences as the gateway to Narnia in "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian." The cove's natural archway and pristine beach provided a magical entrance to the fictional world. This location was chosen for its ethereal beauty, which perfectly captured the essence of C.S. Lewis's beloved series. The film's success brought international attention to Cathedral Cove, transforming it into a must-visit destination for fans and nature lovers alike. The cove's cinematic magic lies in its ability to transport visitors to a world of fantasy and wonder, echoing the timeless appeal of Narnia.

4. Reynisfjara, Iceland: Black Sands and Stark Drama

Reynisfjara, with its striking black sands and basalt columns, served as a dramatic setting for scenes in the television series "Game of Thrones." Located on Iceland's south coast, this beach's otherworldly landscape provided the perfect backdrop for the show's epic storytelling. The contrast between the dark sands and the crashing waves created a sense of mystery and foreboding, enhancing the narrative's tension. Reynisfjara's cinematic appeal extends beyond its visual impact; it embodies the rugged beauty and untamed spirit of Iceland. This beach invites visitors to experience the raw power of nature and the allure of landscapes that seem to belong to another world.

5. Bondi Beach, Australia: Surfing into the Spotlight

Bondi Beach, one of Australia's most famous beaches, has long been a favorite location for filmmakers. Its golden sands and vibrant surf culture have been featured in numerous films and television shows, including "Bondi Rescue" and "The Great Gatsby." Bondi's cinematic charm lies in its dynamic atmosphere, where the energy of the ocean meets the laid-back vibe of beachgoers. This iconic beach embodies the quintessential Australian lifestyle, attracting filmmakers seeking to capture the essence of sun, surf, and sand. Bondi Beach's enduring popularity in cinema reflects its status as a symbol of freedom and adventure, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its lively spirit.

6. Anse Source d'Argent, Seychelles: A Tropical Dreamscape

Anse Source d'Argent, located on the island of La Digue in the Seychelles, is renowned for its stunning granite boulders and turquoise waters. This idyllic beach has been featured in several films and commercials, including "Cast Away" and "The Truth About Charlie." Its cinematic allure lies in its dreamlike beauty, where the natural elements blend seamlessly to create a paradise on earth. Anse Source d'Argent's appeal extends beyond its visual splendor; it offers a sense of tranquility and escape, inviting visitors to experience a slice of tropical heaven. This beach is a testament to the power of nature's artistry, capturing the imagination of filmmakers and travelers alike.

7. Matira Beach, Bora Bora: Romance in the South Pacific

Matira Beach, with its velvety white sands and calm, turquoise waters, has long been the epitome of romance, making it a dream setting for films that capture the magic of love in paradise. Featured in the 1962 classic Mutiny on the Bounty, starring Marlon Brando, this beach showcased the untouched beauty of the South Pacific, forever linking Bora Bora with cinematic romance. The island’s idyllic landscape provided the perfect backdrop for this historical drama, where the allure of the tropics played a pivotal role in the film’s escapist appeal. More recently, Matira Beach has been a popular setting for romantic films and reality TV, capturing its serene beauty and intimate ambiance. With its breathtaking sunsets and secluded coves, Matira Beach continues to be a sought-after filming location, symbolizing love, adventure, and the timeless charm of the South Pacific.

8. Palawan, Philippines: An Archipelago of Wonders

Palawan, an archipelago in the Philippines, has been dubbed the "last frontier" due to its untouched natural beauty. Its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters have been featured in films such as "The Bourne Legacy" and "The Beach." Palawan's cinematic appeal lies in its diverse landscapes, from limestone cliffs to hidden lagoons, offering a wealth of visual inspiration for filmmakers. The archipelago's remote location and pristine environment provide a sense of escapism, inviting visitors to explore its hidden treasures. Palawan's cinematic magic is a testament to the power of nature to captivate and inspire, drawing travelers seeking adventure and discovery.

9. Praia da Marinha, Portugal: A Coastal Masterpiece

Praia da Marinha, one of Portugal’s most iconic beaches, is a masterpiece of nature, with golden cliffs, hidden caves, and crystal-clear waters forming a dramatic backdrop perfect for film. This breathtaking location gained cinematic fame in The Ninth Gate (1999), a supernatural thriller starring Johnny Depp, where the rugged coastline and secluded beach added an air of mystery to the film’s eerie narrative. More recently, Praia da Marinha was featured in One Way, a 2022 action film starring Kevin Bacon, further cementing its status as a cinematic gem. The beach’s stunning rock formations, particularly its naturally carved archways, provide a striking visual contrast to the vast Atlantic, making it an ideal setting for adventure films, thrillers, and historical dramas. Whether appearing in epic tales of mystery or breathtaking travel cinematography, Praia da Marinha remains a mesmerizing destination that filmmakers—and travelers—continue to cherish.

10. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda: Pink Sands and Nautical Tales

Horseshoe Bay, with its iconic pink sands and azure waters, is one of Bermuda's most famous beaches. This picturesque location has been featured in films and television shows, including "The Deep" and "The Bermuda Depths." Horseshoe Bay's cinematic magic lies in its unique color palette, where the soft pink sands contrast with the vibrant blue sea. The beach's natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for stories of adventure and romance. Horseshoe Bay invites visitors to experience its serene charm, offering a glimpse into the idyllic lifestyle of Bermuda. This beach remains a symbol of the island's enchanting allure, captivating filmmakers and travelers alike.

11. Whitehaven Beach, Australia: A Symphony of Colors

Whitehaven Beach, located on Whitsunday Island in Australia, is renowned for its pristine white sands and vibrant turquoise waters. This stunning beach has served as a backdrop in several films, showcasing its breathtaking beauty. Notably, "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales" featured Whitehaven Beach for its expansive deserted shores, white sands, and sparkling waters, portraying scenes where Captain Jack Sparrow encounters Salazar's ghost army emerging from the sea. More recently, the Netflix movie "Love Is in the Air" highlighted the mesmerizing beauty of Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, with the fictional airline Fullerton Airways frequently landing on remote islands to deliver supplies, providing breathtaking scenes of the Whitsunday Islands' pristine beauty and azure waters. Whitehaven Beach's cinematic appeal lies in its striking color contrast, where the pure white sands meet the vivid blue sea. The beach's remote location and untouched environment provide a sense of tranquility and escape, inviting visitors to experience its natural splendor. Whitehaven Beach continues to captivate filmmakers and travelers with its enchanting allure, embodying the essence of paradise and the power of nature's artistry.

12. El Matador Beach, California: Hollywood’s Favorite Secret Cove

Nestled along the picturesque Malibu coastline, El Matador Beach is a rugged slice of cinematic gold that’s long been a favorite of directors, photographers, and A-list celebs alike. Its dramatic sea stacks, sculpted caves, and golden cliffs create an atmosphere that’s both wild and intimate—perfect for framing emotional or dreamlike scenes. Films like The Notebook used El Matador’s moody beauty to evoke romance and longing, while True Romance tapped into its untamed, edgy appeal. Despite being just off the Pacific Coast Highway and a stone’s throw from Los Angeles, El Matador retains a sense of escape. The steep wooden staircase and dirt trail leading down from the cliffs to the beach adds to its allure—getting there feels like descending into a secret world. It’s best visited during golden hour when the setting sun paints the rock formations in warm hues and the waves shimmer like liquid silver. Whether you’re a photographer chasing light or a traveler searching for a scene-worthy spot, El Matador delivers pure cinematic ambiance.

13. Hanalei Bay, Hawaii: Jurassic Backdrops and Romantic Escapes

Set against a backdrop of lush emerald mountains draped in mist and waterfalls, Hanalei Bay is pure cinematic poetry. Located on the North Shore of Kauai, the bay’s dramatic crescent-shaped beach, framed by taro fields and volcanic ridges, has inspired filmmakers and dreamers alike. It was memorably featured in The Descendants, where George Clooney’s character finds clarity amidst the bay’s tranquil beauty, and nearby scenes from Jurassic Park highlight the prehistoric grandeur of the region. The water here shifts from glassy turquoise to deep blue, while surfers, paddleboarders, and outriggers glide across the bay like moving brushstrokes. There’s a laid-back rhythm to Hanalei that lends itself to introspective storytelling—one part postcard, one part soul-searching. The view of Makana Mountain (dubbed “Bali Hai” in South Pacific) gives it an almost mythic aura. Whether you're on a romantic getaway or simply chasing the spirit of cinema, Hanalei Bay invites you to linger, reflect, and imagine.

14. Playa Balandra, Mexico: Baja’s Dreamy Star

Playa Balandra is the kind of beach that doesn’t just look like paradise—it redefines it. Tucked into a shallow bay near La Paz in Baja California Sur, its calm, glassy waters stretch out in surreal hues of turquoise and jade, with powdery white sand forming delicate curves and inlets. The beach has been featured in Mexican cinema, most notably in Y Tu Mamá También, where its pristine isolation provided a dreamlike counterpoint to the emotional journeys of the film’s characters. Balandra is part of a federally protected area, meaning no buildings or commercial activity clutter the view—just natural splendor as far as the eye can see. The iconic mushroom-shaped rock formation, El Hongo, is a favorite photo op, and shallow waters make it perfect for wading, kayaking, and paddleboarding. With no cell service and minimal infrastructure, Balandra invites you to unplug and immerse yourself in a setting that feels both cinematic and sacred—ideal for introspective stories or sun-soaked serenity.

15. Tunnels Beach, Hawaii: The Jungle Meets the Sea

Tunnels Beach on Kauai’s North Shore is a masterpiece of contrasts—where the deep blues of the Pacific meet the lush, emerald greens of the jungle. Framed by dramatic cliffs and swaying palms, the beach earned its name from the lava tubes and underwater tunnels that make it a snorkeler’s paradise. It’s no wonder that South Pacific and Soul Surfer both chose Tunnels for key scenes. In South Pacific, it provided the archetypal image of island paradise, while in Soul Surfer, it was both backdrop and battleground for triumph over adversity. The views of Makana Mountain (again, known as “Bali Hai”) from the shore lend a mystical quality to the beach, while golden sunsets ignite the skies in cinematic brilliance. Off-camera, it’s a beloved local spot for snorkeling, watching sea turtles, and soaking in the serene energy of Kauai’s north coast. For travelers and filmmakers alike, Tunnels Beach is where wild nature and visual poetry converge.

16. Curracloe Beach, Ireland: Saving Private Ryan’s Surreal Storm

Curracloe Beach in County Wexford may seem like a peaceful stretch of Irish shoreline, but its role in Saving Private Ryan is anything but serene. Director Steven Spielberg chose this sweeping beach as a stand-in for Omaha Beach in Normandy, meticulously transforming it into the harrowing opening scene of the D-Day invasion. The juxtaposition of its natural beauty and its cinematic role in one of film’s most intense battle sequences creates a striking contrast. With its endless dunes, wide shoreline, and often moody skies, Curracloe exudes a quiet grandeur that’s perfect for emotionally powerful scenes. It was also featured in Brooklyn (2015), providing a soft, melancholy setting for Saoirse Ronan’s bittersweet return to Ireland. Visiting Curracloe feels like stepping into movie history—you can walk the same sands where Tom Hanks and the cast reenacted one of cinema’s most unforgettable war scenes, but now surrounded by nothing but wind, waves, and the echoes of stories told and remembered.

17. Takapuna Beach, New Zealand: Urban Edge Meets Fantasy Charm

Takapuna Beach sits just a short drive from downtown Auckland, yet it feels like a world apart—where urban energy meets windswept whimsy. Overlooked in favor of New Zealand’s wilder coasts, Takapuna nonetheless holds cinematic potential, blending accessible beauty with subtle drama. It was featured in Jane Campion’s haunting The Piano, where the black volcanic sands and stormy skies provided a brooding, emotional landscape. With views of Rangitoto Island rising like a sleeping volcano just offshore, Takapuna feels like a setting plucked from a modern fairytale or an alt-universe fantasy series. The beach is popular with locals, but still offers moments of serenity, especially at sunrise when the sky turns molten over the Hauraki Gulf. Its blend of soft sand, lava rock, and gentle waves makes it a versatile filming location and a rewarding stop for travelers seeking cinematic inspiration without straying far from the city. For those craving a quieter kind of drama, Takapuna is a scene-stealer.

18. Bathsheba Beach, Barbados: Wild, Cinematic Power

Bathsheba Beach, located on the rugged east coast of Barbados, feels like a set piece from a sweeping oceanic saga—and that’s exactly what it became in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. This stretch of Atlantic-facing coast is anything but gentle: waves crash with thunderous force against jagged limestone boulders rising from the sea like petrified sea monsters. The most famous of these is the “mushroom rock,” a giant sea-stack worn smooth by centuries of wind and water, making it an icon of raw natural beauty. The beach itself is a moody, mesmerizing blend of golden sand, frothy surf, and dramatic sky. With little development in sight, it evokes an untouched, almost prehistoric feeling—ideal for high-seas fantasy epics or deeply atmospheric drama. Just inland, the sleepy fishing village of Bathsheba adds authentic Caribbean charm, complete with rum shacks, reggae beats, and fishermen pulling in their morning catch. This fusion of cinematic scope and cultural richness makes Bathsheba a dream for directors—and a magnetic destination for travelers who crave something wilder than your average beach break. Bring your camera, but more importantly, bring your imagination.

19. Kefalonia Beaches, Greece: Corelli’s Quiet Romance

The Ionian island of Kefalonia is like a film reel of Greece’s most romantic moments, and its beaches—particularly Myrtos and Antisamos—are the stars of the show. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (2001), the war-era love story starring Nicolas Cage and Penélope Cruz, brought global attention to these cinematic shores. Antisamos Beach, where much of the film was shot, is a pebble-strewn stretch surrounded by steep, pine-covered hills that tumble down to water so clear it almost glows. It’s quiet, secluded, and ideal for the kind of scenes where a whispered confession or longing glance becomes the emotional core of the story. Myrtos Beach, often called one of the most beautiful in Europe, is more sweeping in scale. From above, it looks like a white ribbon draped along a cliffside, with turquoise and cobalt waters crashing dramatically onto the shore. This natural grandeur has made it a favorite of drone cinematographers and sunset seekers alike. There’s an old-world charm to Kefalonia—minimal crowds, traditional tavernas, and winding coastal roads that open up to jaw-dropping vistas—making it perfect for films and travelers alike who favor slow, poetic storytelling over spectacle. It’s the kind of place where a beach isn’t just a setting—it’s the heart of the narrative.

20. Agonda Beach, India: Goa’s Peaceful, Cinematic Retreat

Agonda Beach is the quieter, moodier sibling to South Goa’s more touristy Palolem—a long, crescent-shaped shoreline framed by swaying palms, gentle surf, and a sense of solitude that filmmakers love to capture. Featured in The Bourne Supremacy, where it served as the opening hideout for Jason Bourne and Marie, Agonda delivered a rare glimpse of Goa’s less-explored serenity. Unlike the party vibe often associated with India’s coastal scenes, Agonda radiates a meditative stillness, perfect for scenes that lean into introspection, renewal, or emotional transition. Its wide-open beach is ideal for sunrise strolls or shadowy twilight sequences, while the backdrop of jungle-covered hills and wooden huts provides a rustic aesthetic that’s both warm and cinematic. Local fishermen cast their nets at dawn, and cows occasionally wander the sand—adding layers of authenticity to the beach’s already film-worthy atmosphere. It’s not just the look of Agonda that attracts directors and indie storytellers—it’s the feeling. It’s the kind of beach where characters find clarity, make life-altering decisions, or escape the chaos of the world. For travelers, it offers a similar escape: an unhurried, soul-soothing experience that feels like something out of a quietly powerful indie film.

21. Cannon Beach, Oregon: The Goonies’ Iconic Finale

Cannon Beach is one of those rare places where the line between cinema and reality all but disappears. Immortalized in the climactic scenes of The Goonies (1985), this fog-draped stretch of Oregon coast—with its wild surf, windswept dunes, and the iconic Haystack Rock rising 235 feet out of the Pacific—feels like a storyboard come to life. It’s here that the Goonies' unforgettable treasure-hunting adventure ends, and for many visitors, the beach still radiates that same sense of discovery and childhood wonder. But Cannon Beach’s appeal goes far beyond nostalgia. The Pacific Northwest’s moody weather often blankets the coastline in mist, giving it a mystical, almost otherworldly ambiance that’s been captured in a number of other productions, including Twilight and Point Break. It’s a place where brooding characters walk the shore, waves crash with emotion, and nature takes center stage. Small coastal shops, lighthouses, and driftwood-strewn paths complete the vibe, making it an ideal setting for both period dramas and contemporary coming-of-age tales. Whether you’re retracing the footsteps of Mikey and the gang or simply soaking in the stormy grandeur of the Oregon coast, Cannon Beach offers a cinematic experience that stays with you—on screen and in memory.

The Enduring Magic of Cinematic Beaches

The beaches explored in this article offer more than just stunning landscapes; they provide a window into the creative minds of filmmakers and the stories that captivate audiences worldwide. These cinematic shores have become iconic symbols of adventure, romance, and escapism, drawing travelers eager to experience the magic captured on screen. As we roam through these breathtaking beaches, we are reminded of the enduring power of cinema to inspire and transport us to new worlds. Whether it's the rugged cliffs of Navagio Beach or the serene beauty of Anse Source d'Argent, these locations continue to captivate and enchant, inviting us to explore the intersection of reality and the silver screen.