Where Was The Block Island Sound Filmed? A Location Guide

A Film Fan's Guide to The Block Island Sound: Exploring the Haunting Filming Locations

If you’ve been captivated by the eerie mystery and supernatural suspense of The Block Island Sound, Netflix’s unsettling thriller, you’re not alone. Set against the breathtaking yet haunting landscapes of Block Island, Rhode Island, the film uses its atmospheric location to enhance the tension and unease. From its rugged cliffs to its serene beaches, the island’s natural beauty contrasts starkly with the ominous events of the story. In The Block Island Sound, the island becomes more than just a setting—it’s a character that reflects the film’s themes of isolation, paranoia, and the mysteries of the natural world.

The Story and Its Stars

The Block Island Sound tells the story of Tom Lynch (portrayed by Chris Sheffield), a fisherman struggling with grief after the mysterious death of his father. As Tom begins to uncover strange phenomena surrounding the island—dead fish washing ashore, eerie sounds from the water, and unexplained behavior among locals—he finds himself caught in a chilling web of ecological disaster and supernatural terror.

Chris Sheffield (The Maze Runner) delivers a gripping performance as Tom, capturing the tension between skepticism and belief as the mystery deepens. Michaela McManus (The Vampire Diaries) shines as Tom’s sister Audry, an environmental scientist investigating the unexplained ecological phenomena. Neville Archambault plays the cryptic neighbor whose unsettling presence hints at hidden truths.

Why Block Island Was Chosen

Located 13 miles off the coast of Rhode Island, Block Island provided the perfect setting for the film’s narrative. The island’s remote location, rugged landscapes, and small-town atmosphere create a sense of isolation that mirrors the film’s central themes. The natural beauty of its cliffs, beaches, and harbors contrasts with the sinister undertones of the story, heightening the tension and unease.
The filmmakers utilized the island’s ecological significance and unique geography to underscore the story’s environmental and supernatural elements, tying the plot closely to its location.

‍Key Filming Locations on Block Island

For fans eager to immerse themselves in the chilling atmosphere of The Block Island Sound, here are the film’s most iconic locations:

Mohegan Bluffs – A Rugged and Eerie Landmark

The island’s iconic Mohegan Bluffs feature prominently in several key scenes, offering dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

• Cliffside Views: The bluffs’ towering cliffs create an atmosphere of isolation and danger. In a pivotal scene, Tom stands at the edge, grappling with his father’s mysterious death and the eerie forces surrounding the island.
• Staircase to the Shore: The long wooden staircase leading to the beach below is used in a tense moment as Tom discovers something disturbing washed ashore. The location’s natural beauty contrasts with the chilling events unfolding.

Block Island Harbor – A Gateway to Mystery

The island’s bustling harbor serves as both a lifeline to the mainland and a hub for eerie encounters.

• Fishing Docks: Tom’s fishing boat is frequently docked here, and several unsettling moments occur as he begins to notice strange behavior among the other fishermen. The quiet, desolate atmosphere amplifies the tension.
• Harbor Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse provides the backdrop for a haunting sequence where strange noises echo across the water, leaving Tom and the audience unnerved.

West Beach – A Quiet Place of Unease

West Beach, known for its serenity and natural beauty, becomes the site of one of the film’s most unsettling discoveries.

• Dead Fish Scene: The beach is littered with inexplicably dead fish, a visual that underscores the film’s environmental themes. Tom and Audry investigate the phenomenon, deepening the mystery and their growing sense of dread.
• Dunes and Grasslands: The windswept dunes and tall grasses provide a striking backdrop for Tom’s introspective moments as he struggles to make sense of the chaos around him.

Great Salt Pond – A Reflective Yet Sinister Setting

The tranquil waters of the Great Salt Pond play a significant role in the film, adding layers of suspense and intrigue.

• Kayaking Scene: Audry paddles across the pond during her investigation, the stillness of the water juxtaposed with the tension in her discovery. The scene highlights the film’s use of nature to evoke unease.
• Nighttime Reflections: In one haunting moment, the pond’s glassy surface reflects eerie lights, hinting at the supernatural forces at play.

Filming Anecdotes from The Block Island Sound

Unpredictable Weather Enhancing the Mood -The filmmakers faced frequent weather challenges while filming on Block Island, with sudden fog and storms often disrupting the schedule. One particularly dense fog bank rolled in during a scene on Mohegan Bluffs, which the director decided to incorporate, enhancing the eerie atmosphere.

Chris Sheffield’s Immersive Preparation - To prepare for his role, Chris Sheffield spent weeks shadowing local fishermen, learning the intricacies of their work and lifestyle. This immersive experience helped him portray Tom’s character with authenticity, grounding the supernatural elements in a realistic portrayal.

Community Involvement - Local residents were actively involved in the production, with many serving as extras in scenes at the harbor and beach. One memorable moment involved a local fisherman improvising a line that added unexpected humor to an otherwise tense scene, earning a spot in the final cut.

The Mystery of the Sound - The eerie sound central to the film’s plot was inspired by real-life unexplained noises recorded in the Atlantic Ocean. The sound design team blended these recordings with natural ocean sounds to create an unsettling auditory experience that became a character in itself.

Explore Block Island Like Tom

Step into the haunting world of The Block Island Sound and visit the real-life locations that played a central role in the story. Each site offers a glimpse into the eerie atmosphere that defined the film, allowing you to retrace Tom’s footsteps and immerse yourself in the island’s enigmatic charm.

Visit Old Harbor - Located on the eastern side of Block Island, Old Harbor is the island’s main port and a hub of activity in the film. This bustling waterfront is where several key scenes unfold, including Tom’s interactions with local fishermen as he begins to notice strange behavior. Wander along the historic docks, where fishing boats bob in the water, and imagine the tension that simmered beneath the surface. Look out for the Old Harbor Lighthouse, which adds a historic and slightly ominous touch to the area.

Stand at Mohegan Bluffs - The towering Mohegan Bluffs, located on the southern coast of Block Island, provide one of the film’s most dramatic backdrops. These rugged cliffs serve as the setting for Tom’s moments of reflection and tension, where the vast ocean symbolizes both isolation and mystery. Walk down the 141 wooden steps to the rocky beach below, where eerie discoveries in the film were made. The striking views from the top of the bluffs are as breathtaking as they are haunting, making this a must-visit spot.

Walk Along West Beach - Situated on the island’s western shore, West Beach is known for its tranquil beauty and natural charm. In the film, it’s the site of one of the most unsettling discoveries—dead fish mysteriously washed ashore. Walk the stretch of quiet sand and imagine the foreboding tension that permeated the scene. The tall grass and windswept dunes frame the shoreline, offering visitors a stark contrast to the film’s unease while showcasing the beach’s understated beauty.

Paddle the Great Salt Pond - The Great Salt Pond, nestled in the heart of Block Island, is a serene yet significant location in the film. This protected estuary is where Audry conducts her investigation into the island’s ecological disturbances. Rent a kayak and paddle the calm waters, following the route Audry might have taken. Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife and quiet inlets that add to the pond’s mysterious allure. The stillness of the water and the surrounding nature create an eerie yet captivating atmosphere.

Explore North Light at Sandy Point - North Light, situated at the northern tip of Block Island on Sandy Point, is another notable location tied to the film’s narrative. This historic lighthouse stands watch over the shifting sands and turbulent waters, symbolizing the isolation and forewarning central to the story. Visitors can walk the beach leading to the lighthouse, where scenes of quiet introspection and eerie discovery take place. The windswept shoreline and crashing waves make this a location steeped in both history and cinematic significance.

The Block Island Sound uses the natural beauty and eerie charm of Block Island to craft a story that lingers long after the credits roll. Visiting these filming locations not only offers a deeper connection to the film but also highlights the island’s captivating landscapes and unique character. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or a traveler seeking adventure, Block Island promises an experience filled with intrigue, beauty, and mystery. Step into the world of The Block Island Sound and let the island’s haunting allure captivate your imagination.