For those who appreciate film and luxury travel, visiting these stunning locations offers a unique way to step into the settings of iconic scenes. From charming beach towns to majestic harbors, this list of five movies filmed in New England highlights locations perfect for an upscale travel experience. Whether you're interested in walking through picturesque villages or dining with an ocean view, these destinations bring cinematic charm and elegance to any itinerary. Discover how New England’s classic beauty has become the backdrop for unforgettable films and a must-visit spot for discerning travelers.
The Golden Boys (2008)
Filming Locations: Barnstable, Chatham, Orleans, Provincetown, Yarmouth
The Golden Boys is a comedy set in 1905 Cape Cod, following three retired sea captains—Eben, Jerry, and Perez—who have settled into bachelor life together. Realizing they need someone to manage their household, they decide that one of them must marry, but none is particularly eager to do so. They advertise for a housekeeper with marriage in mind, leading to the arrival of the charming Martha, who shakes up their quiet lives and prompts rivalry among the men. As they navigate this unexpected situation, they confront the challenges of companionship, aging, and the comforts of friendship. Set against the quaint backdrop of Cape Cod, the film offers a lighthearted take on love and friendship in later life.
That's My Boy (2012)
Filming Locations: Chatham, Barnstable, Dennis
That’s My Boy is a comedy about Donny Berger, a former teenage celebrity who, as a young boy, fathered a son named Todd. After years of being estranged, Donny reconnects with Todd just days before his son’s wedding, bringing his wild and chaotic lifestyle into Todd's prim and proper world. As Donny attempts to repair their strained relationship, he stirs up trouble, challenging Todd’s carefully constructed life. The film follows the pair as they navigate family tensions, misplaced loyalties, and the possibility of reconciliation. Featuring outrageous humor and a cast led by Adam Sandler and Andy Samberg, the movie explores themes of fatherhood, forgiveness, and family.
The Finest Hours (2016)
Filming Location: Chatham
The Finest Hours is a thrilling true-story drama about one of the most daring rescues in U.S. Coast Guard history. Set in 1952, the film follows a massive storm that splits the oil tanker SS Pendleton in two, leaving its crew stranded and facing certain death off the coast of Cape Cod. Coast Guardsman Bernie Webber and his small crew set out in a tiny lifeboat in treacherous conditions to reach the survivors against impossible odds. Battling towering waves and freezing temperatures, they embark on a heroic rescue that tests their strength and resolve. The film captures the bravery and resilience of the rescuers and the harrowing struggle of the Pendleton's crew to survive.
Jaws (1975)
Filming Location: Martha’s Vineyard
Jaws is a suspenseful thriller directed by Steven Spielberg, centering on a small beach town terrorized by a massive great white shark. When a series of deadly attacks threatens the town of Amity Island during the peak of tourist season, Police Chief Martin Brody, shark expert Matt Hooper, and seasoned fisherman Quint team up to hunt down the predator. Their pursuit of the shark turns into a perilous battle of survival as they face the creature’s lethal strength and cunning. With its iconic score and groundbreaking effects, the film became a defining moment in cinema, sparking fear of the ocean and popularizing the summer blockbuster. Jaws remains a classic, celebrated for its intense atmosphere and gripping storytelling.
One Crazy Summer, 1986
Filming Locations: Barnstable, Nantucket
One Crazy Summer is a quirky comedy that follows Hoops McCann, a recent high school graduate and aspiring cartoonist, as he heads to Nantucket for a summer adventure. While there, he befriends a group of misfit locals and falls for Cassandra, a singer trying to save her grandfather’s house from a greedy developer. As Hoops and his friends team up to help Cassandra, they find themselves in a series of outrageous and hilarious situations, including a sailing regatta that could turn the tide. The film combines romance, humor, and summer escapades, capturing the fun and spontaneity of young adulthood. With its offbeat humor, One Crazy Summer has become a cult favorite for fans of 1980s comedies.
