Where was Jaws III filmed?
1983
City Locations
Orlando (USA), Navarre (USA)
Location Types
Unusual, Unique, Beach Club
Location Styles
Beachfront, Old Hollywood
About Jaws III
Jaws III continues the story of the Brody children from the previous Jaws movies as they visit SeaWorld, a marine park located in Florida. As the park prepares to open, a young great white shark sneaks into the lagoon and begins attacking and killing employees. However, upon capturing the shark, it becomes clear that an even larger predator lurks within the park. The film was released when 3-D technology became popular, allowing audiences to wear polarized cardboard glasses that made elements appear as if they were coming out of the screen. Reception for the movie Jaws III was largely negative, with critics panning the film for its weak plot, poor acting, and subpar special effects. Despite being a box office success, the movie failed to impress audiences with its predictable storyline and lack of suspense, making it one of the weakest entries in the Jaws franchise.
Jaws III Locations
Jaws III is an iconic movie in the thriller genre, and most scenes were shot mainly in SeaWorld Orlando and Navarre, Florida. SeaWorld Orlando is a marine zoological park in Central Florida with aquariums, rides, shows, and other attractions. The park allows visitors to get up close with sea life, including dolphins, manatees, fish, sharks, and more. Navarre, Florida, is in the Florida Panhandle near Pensacola on the Gulf Coast. As such, it provides breathtaking views of white sand beaches and emerald green waters that will take your breath away. The backdrop of both regions adds to the production value of Jaws III as they are both stunningly beautiful settings that help to create an atmosphere that excites audiences. The gorgeous landscapes help set the stage for each suspenseful scene throughout the movie. Secluded coves, vast open waters, lush greenery, and pristine beaches provide perfect backdrops for a blockbuster film like Jaws III. A trip to these locations featured in Jaws III would be highly worthwhile for any fan of this classic movie or anyone looking for a perfect vacation destination. Swimming with dolphins at SeaWorld and fishing off the coast of Navarre offer many fun activities that will create memories to last a lifetime. Whether you are there as part of a pilgrimage to see where Jaws III was made or just looking for some relaxation, these locations will not disappoint.
Fun Fact
A fun fact about Jaws III is that it marked Joe Alves' directorial debut. Steven Spielberg had previously hired him as a production designer on Jaws (1975) and Jaws 2 (1978). Alves also wrote the story for this sequel and took on directing duties when no other filmmakers were interested in helming a third movie in the franchise. In addition, several of Hollywood's biggest stars from that era made cameos in this movie, including Ed McMahon from The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson and Jack Wilson from The Gong Show.
Water skiers scene in Jaws III
Navarre Beach, Pensacola Beach, FL
A group of water skiers is being pulled by a speedboat in the lagoon outside SeaWorld Orlando. The camera then cuts to an underwater shot, where we see the shark approaching its prey and launching an attack. This incredible scene was filmed at Navarre Beach along the Gulf Coast. Visitors return year after year because of the crystal clear waters and powder sand. Located on Santa Rosa Island, Navarre Beach offers tranquility and serenity for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. You can spend the day lounging on the beach or dip in the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboard or jet ski and explore the coastal waterways. Don't forget to catch a breathtaking sunset over the water; there's truly nothing like it. Navarre Beach is the perfect destination for relaxing and picturesque vacations. Though getting there may seem daunting, the journey is well worth it. Navarre Beach can be accessed via Interstate-10 or State Route 87 if you're driving. If you're flying in, the closest airport is Pensacola International Airport. From there, you can rent a car, take a shuttle or hail a taxi to Navarre Beach.
Filming Locations Tour
The Sea Park scene in Jaws III
SeaWorld Orlando, 7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL
Michael Brody (Dennis Quaid) is the SeaWorld Orlando chief engineer. Meanwhile, Kathryn "Kay" Morgan (Bess Armstrong) is the park's senior biologist. Notable attractions at the park include newly installed underwater tunnels that offer visitors a unique view of marine life. However, a malfunction in the park's gate system causes a great white shark to enter and pursue a group of water skiers, unaware of the danger. SeaWorld Orlando is a marine zoological and theme park in Orlando, Florida. It offers an array of attractions and activities for visitors, including thrilling rides, up-close animal encounters, and captivating shows. One of SeaWorld Orlando's defining features is its focus on marine life and conservation, with exhibits and interactive experiences designed to educate visitors about the importance of marine life preservation. The park is popular with families and visitors seeking entertainment and educational experiences. Take the Beachline Expressway/FL-528 E towards the airport to SeaWorld Orlando. Follow the International Drive/Convention Center signs, merge onto Beachline Expressway/FL-528 E, and take exit 1 for International Drive. Turn onto International Drive and left onto Sea Harbor Dr for the entrance of SeaWorld Orlando.
Conclusion
Jaws III was a thrilling action-adventure movie in and around the SeaWorld Orlando theme park. It was shot in Navarre, Florida (a community near Pensacola in the Florida Panhandle) and SeaWorld Orlando (a marine zoological park). Through its range of locations and storyline featuring life-like animatronic shark technology, Jaws III gave viewers great suspense and excitement that kept them on the edge of their seats. The combination of real-life locations and detailed animatronics produced unparalleled realism, showing how daring and dangerous this underwater enemy can be. Jaws III gave audiences an unforgettable experience full of danger and suspense that they will remember for a long time.