Discover the versatile and picturesque Sound Shore in Westchester County, ideal for film productions seeking diverse coastal settings. From sandy beaches and salt marshes to sheltered coves and boat-filled harbors, these locations offer practical and stunning backdrops to bring cinematic visions to the screen.
Here are some of the county's most iconic shoreline spots and the famous films that have captured their magic on screen.
Playland Park: A Classic Shoreline Destination
Located on the Long Island Sound in Rye, NY, Playland is the only Art Deco amusement park in America and one of two amusement parks on the National Registry of Historic Places. Featuring kiddie and thrill rides, including the famous Dragon Coaster, Playland also has a beach, pool, and iconic boardwalk where the 1988 fantasy-comedy “Big” (20th Century Fox) was filmed. The scene where Tom Hanks famously made a wish on the Zoltar machine left an indelible mark on film history.
Glen Island Park: A Serene Shoreline Escape
Jay Heritage Center: Architectural Elegance
The Jay Heritage Center, a 23-acre estate boasting views of the Long Island Sound in Rye, served as a filming location for Apple TV+ historical comedy “Dickinson,” starring Academy-Award-nominee Hailee Steinfeld. Ideal for historic and contemporary scenes, the property includes an 1838 Greek Revival mansion, carriage house, gardens, and barn.
Manursing Island: Natural Beauty on Screen
Stunning waterfront views, serene beaches, and luxurious surroundings in Rye’s Manursing Island set the scene for the 2023 comedy "No Hard Feelings" (Columbia Pictures), starring Jennifer Lawrence. Scenes from the Montauk beach club in the film were actually recorded in the Manursing Club The Island’s amenities—secluded beach, elegant clubhouse, ample parking, tennis and pickleball courts, a restaurant, and a swimming pool—provide productions with a wide variety of looks and uses.
Marshlands Conservancy: A Haven for Wildlife — and Filmmakers
With 147 acres of protected land, Rye's Marshlands Conservancy offers a unique film setting. Featuring a variety of ecosystems, the property includes salt marshes, forests, meadows and a tranquil section of Long Island Sound shoreline. It’s also a haven for diverse wildlife making it highly attractive for nature documentaries and films requiring a wild, untouched environment.
Harbor Island Park: Expansive and Versatile
Harbor Island Park is a sprawling 44-acre park anchored by a 700-foot beach pavilion. The park offers diverse settings in a compact area, including beaches, grassy recreation areas, sports fields, and a bustling harbor with docked boats. The park's versatile landscapes have been utilized in various productions, including Hulu’s “Life and Beth.” Easily accessible from Metro North, this location is attractive for cast and crew coming from NYC.
Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club: Elegance and Glamour
With an elegant clubhouse set against a panoramic waterfront vista, the Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club is a sought-after location for filmmakers. It’s been the star of productions such as Paramount Pictures "The Wolf of Wall Street" and Lionsgate Films’ "Ben is Back," showcasing its versatility and charm. Notable features include a private peninsula with 300 feet of beachfront plus private beach cabanas, a newly renovated pool, and nine reconditioned Har-Tru tennis courts overlooking the harbor.
To discover how Westchester’s scenic shorelines can bring your cinematic vision to life or to explore additional locations, contact us.