Where was Flipper filmed?
1963
City Locations
Grassy Key and Miami, FL (USA)
Location Types
Film Studio, Beach/Oceanview
Location Styles
Retro, Beachfront, Exotic/Tropical, Sail
About Flipper
In the 1963 film Flipper, the story revolves around Sandy Ricks (Luke Halpin), a young boy living in the Florida Keys. One day, Sandy comes across a dolphin that has been injured by a harpoon. He rescues the dolphin and forms a deep bond with it.
Sandy's father, Porter Ricks (Chuck Connors), who is a fisherman, initially disapproves of their friendship. However, as Sandy and the dolphin, whom he names Flipper, spend more time together, they develop a special connection.
The movie showcases the adventures of Sandy and Flipper as they explore the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys. They come across various challenges and obstacles but always manage to overcome them with their unwavering friendship.
Despite their bond, Sandy's father insists that Flipper be released back into the wild. This decision leaves Sandy heartbroken, but to his surprise, Flipper returns to him, showing gratitude for being saved.
Flipper is a heartwarming family film that highlights the importance of compassion, friendship, and the remarkable intelligence of dolphins. It captures the enchanting beauty of the ocean and the unique relationship between humans and marine creatures.
In late 1963, a film sequel called Flipper's New Adventure was filmed and later released in June 1964. During that same year, a television series titled Flipper, which drew inspiration from the movie, premiered and continued until 1967. In the 1990s, there was a television revival of the series, featuring Jessica Alba. Additionally, a movie remake was released in 1996, starring Paul Hogan and Elijah Wood.
Flipper Locations
Flipper was primarily filmed in Grassy Key, Florida, USA. This picturesque region in the Florida Keys provided a stunning backdrop for the movie's captivating story. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush tropical landscapes, Grassy Key offered the perfect setting to showcase the bond between a young boy and his dolphin friend. The film also included some scenes shot in the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands, adding to the exotic allure of the locations.
Exploring the filming locations of Flipper in Grassy Key and its surrounding areas offers a captivating experience for film enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The breathtaking beauty of the Florida Keys awaits, with a plethora of activities including snorkeling, diving, and boat tours that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring natural surroundings.
Nearby attractions such as the Miami Seaquarium, the very place where the iconic TV series Flipper was filmed, offer valuable opportunities to learn about and interact with marine life. Embark on this remarkable journey and discover the wonders that await in this picturesque region.
Whether you're a movie enthusiast or just seeking to bask in the sun-kissed allure of the Florida Keys, embarking on a journey to the iconic filming spots of Flipper promises an unforgettable experience.
Did you know?
The role of Flipper, the beloved dolphin character, was played by several trained dolphins named Mitzi, Susie, Patty, and Kathy. These intelligent creatures amazed audiences with their ability to perform various tricks and stunts for the film.
Training scene in Flipper
Dolphin Research Center, 58901 Overseas Hwy, Grassy Key, FL 33050, United States
Flipper rescues Sandy, the young boy protagonist, from danger. During this scene, Flipper demonstrates remarkable agility and problem-solving skills by navigating through obstacles and assisting Sandy. This showcases the bond and trust between Flipper and Sandy, as the dolphin's actions directly contribute to Sandy's safety.
This scene was filmed at the Dolphin Research Center, nestled in the breathtaking Florida Keys. The center is a nonprofit facility committed to advancing research and education about dolphins and sea lions. Immerse yourself in the world of these captivating marine creatures as you delve into their intricate behaviors and witness their awe-inspiring interactions. Join in on interactive programs that offer a hands-on experience, fostering a deep appreciation for marine life while promoting responsible conservation practices. Conveniently located on the picturesque Grassy Key, the center invites individuals of all ages to embark on a truly unforgettable and enriching journey of discovery.
To reach this location from Marathon, FL, you’re looking at a drive of seven miles along US-1 N.
Flipper returning to the Ricks’ pen scene in Flipper
12100 NE 16th Ave, North Miami, FL 33161, USA
Flipper returns to the Ricks' pen, bringing delight to Sandy. However, Flipper ends up devouring Porter's entire catch of fish, which Sandy can catch with Flipper's guidance. When Flipper jumps into the holding pen, Porter blames Sandy for the loss of valuable fish. This incident creates tension and conflict between father and son.
This scene was filmed at Ivan Tors Studios, formerly Thunderbird Studio, which was a Miami-based film production facility. It played a significant role in the film and TV industry, known for pioneering work in underwater photography. Popular productions include Flipper, Daktari, and Gentle Ben.
To get to this location 12100 NE 16th Ave, North Miami, you’ll need to take a 10-mile, 25-minute drive north from Miami Beach.
Conclusion
The 1963 film Flipper took audiences on a captivating adventure set against the stunning backdrop of various locations. The majority of the movie was filmed in Grassy Key, Florida, showcasing the picturesque beauty of the Florida Keys with its crystal-clear waters and lush tropical landscapes. Additionally, some scenes were shot in the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands, adding an exotic touch to the film.
The Miami Seaquarium in Virginia Key, Miami-Dade County, played a significant role in the production of both the film and the beloved TV series adaptation of Flipper. The lagoon and buildings at the Miami Seaquarium served as key filming locations for the series, making it a notable place for fans to visit and relive the magic.
Overall, the filming locations of the 1963 film offered a diverse range of settings. If you get the opportunity to check them out in person, doing so will be well worth it.