Primary Filming Location in Monterey, California
The HBO series Big Little Lies was filmed primarily in Monterey, California, with additional scenes shot in nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea. The production used real coastal streets, private homes, and public beaches to create the fictional Monterey Shores neighborhood. The show relied on local permits and community cooperation to capture the area's distinctive architecture and ocean views.
Monterey County's tourism board reported increased public interest in the series' locations after the show's debut. Fans frequently visit sites like Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, which appear in establishing shots. The production team chose these spots for their visual similarity to the upscale coastal setting described in the source material.
Key Houses and Interiors Used in the Series
The exterior of the Wright family home in Big Little Lies was filmed at a private residence on Marine Avenue in Monterey. Interior scenes for the same house were built on a soundstage at a Los Angeles studio, allowing controlled lighting and set modifications. The production designer recreated the home's coastal aesthetic using custom furniture and palette choices.
Other notable houses in the series were filmed at real private properties in Carmel and Pebble Beach. The school scenes were shot at a local Monterey-area elementary school, with the production using actual classrooms and hallways. The Madeline McKenzie home exterior was a separate private residence, and the production kept specific addresses undisclosed to respect homeowner privacy.
Production Companies and Broadcast Details
Big Little Lies was produced by HBO Entertainment, with the series based on the novel by Liane Moriarty. The showrunners and producers worked with local film commissions in Monterey County to manage location logistics, traffic control, and community notifications during filming days.
The series premiered on HBO and HBO Max, with later seasons continuing the same broadcast arrangement. The production contributed to California's film economy by hiring local crew members and using regional service providers. For information on HBO's programming and production policies, visit HBO Official Site. The California Film Commission provides data on location filming and economic impact at California Film Commission.