What Movie Was Filmed in Port Angeles?
If you’ve ever walked through downtown Port Angeles and thought, “This feels like a movie set,” you’re not wrong. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Port Angeles, Washington, has the kind of natural beauty that begs to be filmed. From cozy diners to foggy shorelines, it’s a town that feels cinematic even on an ordinary day.
So, what movies were filmed in Port Angeles? The list is short but meaningful. And one title in particular brought this small town a whole lot of attention.
Let’s take a look.
Twilight (2008)
The most famous movie filmed near Port Angeles is, without question, Twilight. Yes, that Twilight. The one with the sparkly vampires, moody forests, and teenage brooding.
Although much of the movie was filmed in Oregon and other parts of Washington, a few key scenes were shot right here in Port Angeles. And if you’re a fan of the books or films, you’ll recognize the spots instantly.
The Famous Dinner Scene
In the first Twilight movie, Bella and her friends visit Port Angeles for a shopping trip. Later that evening, Bella finds herself in a sketchy situation, only to be rescued by Edward in his shiny Volvo. Afterward, they head to a cozy Italian restaurant for dinner.
That restaurant? It’s a real place. Known as Bella Italia, it’s located right in downtown Port Angeles. And yes, you can actually order the exact dish Bella had—mushroom ravioli. Since the film’s release, it has become a must-visit spot for fans from around the world.
The restaurant still proudly displays its connection to the movie. The warm lighting, cozy booths, and wine bottles lining the walls make it easy to see why it was chosen for filming.
Downtown Street Scenes
Some of the scenes in Twilight that show the characters walking around town were also filmed along the streets of downtown Port Angeles. If you stroll through the area, especially around First Street and Laurel Street, you’ll feel the vibe right away. It’s all th ere—the same storefronts, the same views of the harbor, and the same small-town feel that Stephanie Meyer described in the books.
So, while Twilight wasn’t filmed entirely in Port Angeles, the town plays an important part in the story. And for fans, it’s a must-see destination.
Other Productions
Now, you may be wondering—were any other movies filmed in Port Angeles?
The answer is: not many. While Port Angeles has the perfect scenery for film, it hasn’t been used widely by Hollywood. That said, the Olympic Peninsula as a whole has served as a filming location for several other movies and documentaries.
For example:
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The Olympic National Park, just minutes from Port Angeles, has appeared in nature documentaries and travel films
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Nearby areas like Forks and La Push, also featured in Twilight, have seen an increase in media attention due to the books and movies
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Independent filmmakers have also used Port Angeles as a backdrop, though many of these films are not widely released
So while Twilight is the standout, Port Angeles has certainly caught the eye of creatives looking for a dramatic, natural setting.
Why Port Angeles Makes a Great Film Location
Even if the list of films is short, the potential is huge. Port Angeles has everything filmmakers love. Towering evergreens, moody beaches, foggy mornings, and charming architecture all in one place.
Here are just a few reasons why the area works so well on camera:
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Dramatic lighting. Between the mist and the clouds, the natural light is incredibly cinematic.
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Diverse backdrops. One minute you’re in the forest. Ten minutes later, you’re at the beach or walking through town.
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Quiet, small-town feel. That means fewer crowds, less traffic, and more flexibility for filming.
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Close to natural wonders. Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge, and Lake Crescent are just a short drive away.
For productions looking to shoot in the Pacific Northwest, Port Angeles is a hidden gem.
How to Explore Twilight Filming Locations
If you’re traveling to Port Angeles and want to see the Twilight spots for yourself, it’s easy to do. Start by visiting Bella Italia. Grab dinner or just take a photo outside the entrance. Next, take a walk through the downtown core. The sidewalks, shops, and overall atmosphere will feel instantly familiar to any fan.
Want a deeper dive? Several websites offer self-guided Twilight tours that include stops in Port Angeles, Forks, and La Push. You can even rent a car and recreate Bella and Edward’s iconic drive.
And even if you’re not a fan of the franchise, the area is still worth exploring. The views are stunning, the food is good, and the vibes are peaceful.
Final Thoughts
So, what movies were filmed in Port Angeles? While Twilight is the headliner, the real star of the show is the town itself. Port Angeles offers a naturally beautiful, peaceful, and cinematic setting that feels like something out of a film—even when no cameras are rolling.
Whether you’re a movie buff, a Twilight fan, or just looking for your next great photo backdrop, Port Angeles is ready for its close-up.