Where Was “Jaws” Filmed? - Peerspace

If you’ve ever wondered, “Where was ‘Jaws’ filmed?”, then you’ve come to the right place! Released in 1975, Steven Spielberg’s hit film had many beachgoers thinking twice before they went for a swim. Besides being a bone-chilling thriller, it is also a very important piece of filmmaking on both a technical and artistic level, going as far as to be preserved in the National Film Registry! 

So like many film buffs and aspiring filmmakers, you’re probably wondering, “Where was ‘Jaws’ filmed where they could capture all that iconic imagery?” You may already know that the film was shot entirely on Martha’s Vineyard off the coast of Massachusetts, but haven’t gotten down to the nitty-gritty with specifics.

There are a few spots we’re going to key in on today: the iconic beaches, the bridge scene, and Chief Brody’s house. You’ll get a feel for the variety of locations that were used, along with some fun facts. And we’re also going to share a couple of similar filming locations in Martha’s Vineyard that you can rent via Peerspace. So slather on your sunscreen and take a trip to the beach with us!

The beaches of “Jaws”

At the beginning of the film, there is a memorable scene that sets the tone and gives you a good look at just what kind of a thriller you’re in for. A young woman is going for a swim in the ocean, where she is unexpectedly dragged under by the titular shark. This scene that’s been etched into so many minds was filmed at Cow Beach in Edgartown. 

Like so many locations from the 1970s, this beach has undergone a lot of changes. In fact, it underwent a beautiful restoration and was awarded the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association’s “Best Restored Beach” award in 2013. It’s nice to know that this beach has undergone such a beautification. It’s also become a conservation area.

According to an article on Patch: “In addition to the much-needed storm damage protection and flood control that the regional nourishment project has provided to the state highway and badly eroding public and private barrier beaches, the Cow Bay Beach has become a destination for endangered nesting shorebirds”. Moviegoers who have wondered, “Where was “Jaws” filmed?” can relax – there haven’t been any shark attacks at Cow Beach!