Filming on the Monterey Peninsula wasn’t just about visuals. The constant ocean fog and the sound of crashing waves were deliberately used to heighten tension. The show’s composer doubled down on that natural ambience, mixing it with a haunting score.
A fun fact: many of the beach scenes were shot at Asilomar State Beach, a protected area known for its wild dunes and surf. It’s so photogenic that even the worst day there looks like a vacation.
The Homes: Where the Money Lives
The characters’ homes are arguably the most aspirational part of the show. Celeste’s cliffside house? That’s a real rental property near Point Lobos, one of the most photographed spots in California. Madeline’s charming cottage is in Pacific Grove’s historic district, complete with a white picket fence that probably costs more than your car.
If You're Wondering Where 'Big Little Lies' Was Filmed, Plan A Trip To
You can’t actually tour the interiors (they’re private residences), but you can walk by and pretend you’re about to host a book club. Just don’t ring the bell—unlike the show, real life doesn’t need a musical cue for tension.
