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Aquamarine movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Aquamarine filmed?

2006

City Locations

Queensland, Australia

Location Types

Film Studio, House, Beach Club

Location Styles

Beach House, Boat Style, Bungalow, Retro, Retreat

About Aquamarine

In 2006, a romantic fantasy comedy movie called Aquamarine was directed by Elizabeth Allen. It starred Joanna "JoJo" Levesque, Emma Roberts, and Sara Paxton. The film was released in the United States on March 3, 2006. Michael Rechtshaffen, from The Hollywood Reporter, described the movie as a delightful romantic comedy with great performances and direction. The plot of Aquamarine revolves around Claire (Emma Roberts) and Hailey (JoJo Levesque), two best friends facing separation when Claire's mother moves to Australia for a job. Just before the girls part ways for good, a storm brings them an unexpected guest - Aquamarine (Sara Paxton), a beautiful teenage mermaid from the sea with her troubles. With time running out, Aquamarine offers to grant their wish if they will help her escape an arranged marriage back in the ocean depths. Aquamarine’s father doesn't believe in love unless Aquamarine can prove it, or else she will have to marry someone she doesn't love. Luckily, Aquamarine can turn into a human during the day on land. Claire and Hailey come to her aid and help her win over Raymond (Jake McDorman), a charming lifeguard so that she can prove the power of love to her father. Aquamarine earned generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. At the 2007 Young Artist Awards, it won Best Performance in a Feature Film – Supporting Young Actress (JoJo). It was nominated for Choice Movie: Chick Flick and Choice Movie Breakout Star – Female (JoJo) at Teen Choice Awards. The cast's performances received positive reviews. According to Leydon, Paxton's portrayal of Aquamarine was described as "impish, anxious, and ebullient," Her impressive talent for physical comedy was also recognized.

Aquamarine Locations

The 2006 film, Aquamarine, is a product of Queensland, Australia. Set by the backdrop of the stunning oceanfront of Sea World, Gold Coast, and Palm Beach, this movie showcases this region's beautiful and varied natural landscapes. Most scenes were shot at Sea World Drive, Palm Beach, and Gold Coast, each offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and lush rainforests. Club scenes were filmed at Tallebudgera Beach in Queensland, Australia. In these areas, visitors can partake in various activities. They can swim and surf at multiple beaches, watch wildlife, and explore the rainforest. Seaworld Drive is an option for those interested in an aquatic adventure where they can dive deep into the ocean. Palm Beach offers stunning vistas of the Indian Ocean. The Gold Coast is famous for its lively nightlife and entertainment options. The natural beauty that can be found throughout this region is unparalleled. It's no wonder why producers chose to highlight these breathtaking locations for their movies. From the sparkling Indian Ocean views from the coastline to the Great Barrier Reef located offshore, aquamarine lovers will have a lot to marvel at. Whether it's an afternoon spent beach hopping or diving into the depths of its aquatic environment, with Sea World Drive offering spectacular views from below sea level- a trip to settings for Aquamarine (2006) is worthwhile for viewers interested in uncovering more about the vast beauty that Queensland has to offer.

The club scenes in Aquamarine

Tallebudgera Beach, Queensland, Australia

Almost all scenes were shot at Tallebudgera beach, as viewers experience the quaint and picturesque setting of 'Baybridge,' Florida. This beach became the movie's fictional town where Claire (Emma Roberts) lives with her grandparents, lifeguard Raymond (Jake McDorman) works, and where Aquamarine (Sara Paxton) surfaces. Embodying a relaxed but nostalgic East Coast American feel, the filmmakers built an entire pool from scratch for this film, as it was critical to the story and for the mermaid reveal. The local clubs did not have a swimming pool suitable for the story and the key "reveal" of the mermaid, so the filmmakers decided to build a new one from scratch. Coates, the designer, created the swimming pool first and made the entire beach club around it. Tallebudgera Beach in Queensland is renowned for its tranquil creek, surrounded by Burleigh Heads National Park on one side and Palm Beach on the other. This stunning location makes it perfect for swimming, picnicking, watersports, and fishing. Tourists can also enjoy exploring nearby attractions like Tallebudgera Creek Estuary Walk or Point Danger Lookout. To get to Tallebudgera Beach from Brisbane Airport, take Flight Path Way to M1/Pacific Motorway until you reach Exit 92 (Tallebudgera Creek Rd). Then turn left onto Tallebudgera Creek Rd, leading you directly to Tallebudgera Beach. To reach your destination, follow Christine Ave from Surfers Paradise and turn right onto Gold Coast Hwy/State Route 2. From there, turn left at Tallebudgera Dr to reach your destination directly.

Filming Locations Scout

Aqua and Raymond's date scene in Aquamarine

Seaworld Dr, Main Beach QLD, Australia

One of the scenes shows Aqua (Sara Paxton) and Raymond (Jake McDorman) having a romantic day together at Sea World. At the amusement park, they participate in various activities, such as playing games and dancing. The iconic moment comes when Raymond wins a stuffed dolphin for Aqua as a prize from one of the game stands. Aquamarine and Raymond bond at a local dance as the sunset approaches. However, Aquamarine has to leave because her legs transform into a tail at sunset. The scene was filmed at Sea World, on Australia's Gold Coast. It is one of Australia's most popular family holiday destinations. Its attractions include rides, animal exhibits, shopping and dining outlets, and educational presentations about marine life conservation and rescue programs. The place is open for tourists to visit and experience the Aquamarine scenes and the park. Visitors can fly directly into Coolangatta Airport or take public transport from Brisbane Airport, which takes approximately an hour to get to Sea World. Alternatively, visitors can drive along the Pacific Motorway (M1), which links Brisbane and the Gold Coast. There is also plenty of car parking available at Sea World itself. Tourists can take a two-hour bus journey by traveling from Brisbane to Southport - Gold Coast, and then taking a 704 bus leading to Sea World.

Video Shoot Locations Directory

Aqua realizes that human love exists scene in Aquamarine

Stage 5, Village Roadshow Studios, Oxenford, Queensland, Australia

The final scene, filmed near the buoy in the water, is quite iconic, as it marks the moment when Raymond (Jake McDorman) and Aquamarine (Sara Paxton) share a romantic kiss. It marks a shift in their relationship from tentative friendship to something more. The two had been through a lot together, with Aquamarine teaching Raymond how humans can love and Claire (Emma Roberts) and Hailey ("JoJo" Levesque) sacrificing their wishes for their friend's safety. In this touching moment of shared connection, Raymond and Aquamarine promise to meet again. The scene was shot at Stage 5, Village Roadshow Studios, in Oxenford, Queensland, Australia. This world-class film production facility is adjacent to the Warner Bros Movie World Theme Park, providing ample opportunity for movie-makers to create unique scenes like this one while benefitting from sophisticated soundstages and post-production services. To get to this location, fly into Brisbane International Airport or Gold Coast Airport before going north to Oxenford by car or public transport. There is also accommodation nearby if staying overnight is required. Village Roadshow Studios is a 50-minute drive south of Brisbane International Airport and only 20 minutes north of Surfers Paradise, an iconic holiday spot and one of Australia's rapidly developing and enthusiastic areas. If you're driving from Brisbane using a private car, take the route through M3 and M1.

Uncover Film Shoot Locations

Conclusion

Aquamarine is a delightful and lighthearted dose of feel-good entertainment. The movie follows two 13-year-old girls, Claire (Emma Roberts) and Hailey (JoJo), as they befriend a mermaid (Sara Paxton) while on vacation at a beach resort. The movie has all the makings of a fun, coming-of-age summer film with its colorful characters, amusing dialogue, and charming performances. The actor playing Aquamarine was incredibly captivating. Her radiant energy stole every scene she was in. The actors’ performances were impressive for such a lighthearted movie. All the child actors hit the right notes when showing their characters’ emotions without overacting or seeming too cheesy. The script was enjoyable. It could juggle several plotlines without feeling rushed or cliched. As for the idea behind Aquamarine, having a mermaid play an essential role in the story added a unique element that made this movie stand out from other similar films. Aquamarine shows there is more to filmmaking than just explosions and special effects. Sometimes audiences want something entertaining yet subtle enough not to be overbearing.