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Oceanside has long been a favorite Hollywood filming location, featured in classics like Top Gun, Bring It On, and Sands of Iwo Jima. Its laid-back beach vibe and central location between L.A. and San Diego have also made it a go-to getaway for stars seeking a little R&R.
In 2016, TNT’s hit drama Animal Kingdom brought Oceanside back into the spotlight. The series follows 17-year-old Joshua “J” Cody as he’s drawn into his criminal family’s dangerous world, set against the backdrop of this coastal town. Starring Ellen Barkin, Scott Speedman, Shawn Hatosy, Finn Cole, and more, the show blends crime, family, and high-stakes drama.
Now, all seasons of Animal Kingdom are streaming on Netflix US – a perfect time to dive into the Cody family’s wild world.
Family ’til the end. Oceanside forever.
Featured Photo: Rich Cruse, @crusephoto
Where is Animal Kingdom filmed? The hit crime drama Animal Kingdom is filmed right here in Oceanside, CA!
Shawn Hatosy said it best in an interview with San Diego Magazine (June 2016):
“Oceanside plays such a big role in the show. It is a character in and of itself. The way of life. The attitude of the locals. The surf.”
Over the last six seasons, Oceanside has served as a beautiful backdrop with over 70 local filming locations, including a number of iconic Oceanside landmarks such as the Oceanside Pier, The Strand and the Oceanside Transit Center. To give the series a local flare, many actual Oceanside surf shops and restaurants are included within the script and mentioned in the show by name. How many Oceanside locations can you reference while watching the series?
Featured Photo: Rich Cruse, @crusephoto
Want to get a little closer to the action? We have narrowed down the 70+ Oceanside filming locations featured in Animal Kingdom to the following 10 locations giving you a self-guided itinerary of where all of the cinematic magic took place.
Please note that some of these locations are privately owned, use discretion when approaching each location.
Learn More About Oceanside On The Big Screen:
A Film Fan’s Guide to Oceanside
“LA Times: The SoCal crime drama to catch up on this summer”
“‘Animal Kingdom’ Sets Premiere for Sixth & Final Season on TNT”
San Diego Magazine “Seven Minutes with Shawn Hatosy” (June 2016)
The San Diego Union Tribune “‘Animal Kingdom’ Crime Drama Begins Shooting in O’side” (April 2016)
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