Fans of heartfelt drama and sun-drenched coastal escapes will find plenty to love in “The Five Star Weekend,” the TV adaptation of Elin Hilderbrand’s bestselling novel. The series stars Jennifer Garner as Hollis Shaw, a popular food influencer attempting to piece her life back together after a sudden tragedy. In search of healing, Hollis invites four friends – each representing a distinct era of her past – for an unforgettable weekend getaway packed with emotional reunions, surprising revelations and deep conversations.
Guided by showrunner Bekah Brunstetter (“This Is Us”), the series boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Regina Hall, Chloë Sevigny, D’Arcy Carden, Gemma Chan and Timothy Olyphant. Beyond its powerhouse lineup, the show’s gorgeous seaside setting acts almost like a character itself. Historic streets, idyllic waterfront views and grand coastal homes set a serene backdrop that beautifully mirrors the story’s core themes of friendship, forgiveness and new beginnings.
To capture that authentic maritime charm, the production filmed on location in one of New England’s most iconic vacation spots, Nantucket. If you are curious about where Hollis Shaw’s picturesque universe comes to life, discovering these breathtaking filming locations is the perfect starting point before planning your own beachside getaway.
Nantucket Island Is The Visual Backbone Of ‘The Five Star Weekend’
Key Scenes: According to Parade, one of the most prominent confirmed filming locations for “The Five Star Weekend” is a stunning estate on Eel Point Road. Serving as the exterior for Hollis Shaw’s elegant beach house, this idyllic setting acts as the true heart of the story. It is where the weekend’s most memorable moments unfold, bringing old friends together for heartfelt conversations and rekindled bonds.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Nantucket is from late May through early October. These months are when warm temperatures, ferry schedules and seasonal businesses are in full swing. Summer brings the island’s most vibrant atmosphere, with outdoor dining, sailing excursions, boutique shopping and cultural events attracting visitors from across the country. This is also when Nantucket’s beaches are at their most inviting.
Transportation Options: Although Nantucket is an island, reaching it is straightforward. Most visitors arrive by high-speed ferry or traditional ferry from Hyannis, Massachusetts, with multiple daily departures during the tourist season. Ferry travel remains one of the most popular ways to reach the island. Alternatively, Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) offers year-round flights from Boston and seasonal nonstop service from several major East Coast cities.
The primary filming location for “The Five-Star Weekend” is Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. This destination is renowned for its cobblestone streets, historic whaling heritage, pristine beaches and upscale coastal charm. According to People, production took place on the island during September 2025.
During filming, Jennifer Garner shared glimpses of her time exploring Nantucket, visiting several popular local attractions. As Garner shared with People, “You could be in nature, you could be on the beach, you can shop, you can … learn about history … And also, I loved the churches there.” Her favorite spots included places like the Nantucket Whaling Museum, which she visited three times.
Things to Do: Begin by exploring the Nantucket Whaling Museum, one of the island’s top attractions. Housed in a restored candle factory, the museum tells the story of Nantucket’s whaling era through fascinating exhibits, artifacts and a fully restored sperm whale skeleton. Afterward, visitors can wander through Nantucket’s historic downtown. This is where cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques, art galleries, cafés and locally owned shops. Nature lovers can spend the afternoon relaxing on one of Nantucket’s many beaches. Some of the most popular include Jetties Beach, Surfside Beach and Cisco Beach, with each offering its own unique character. If you’re looking for spectacular coastal views, consider visiting Brant Point Lighthouse. It is one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States and a favorite spot for photography.
Where to Eat: Nantucket has earned a reputation as one of New England’s premier dining destinations. One of the best-known filming stops is Wicked Island Bakery, which is popular for its fresh pastries, artisan breads, breakfast sandwiches and locally roasted coffee. Another local business that production filmed at was Hatch’s Package Store, a longtime Nantucket institution. Although it’s primarily a wine and spirits retailer rather than a restaurant, it is a point of interest for fans following the cast’s footsteps. Remember that Nantucket’s most popular restaurants can fill up quickly during the summer season. Making reservations in advance is highly recommended, particularly for evening meals.
Where to Stay: Choosing the right accommodation can make it easy to experience both the beauty of Nantucket and the atmosphere seen throughout “The Five Star Weekend.” Travelers seeking a classic Nantucket experience may prefer staying in or near the historic downtown district. This area provides convenient access to shops, restaurants, museums and the ferry terminal, while allowing guests to explore much of the island on foot or by bicycle. For those hoping to enjoy the island’s scenic coastline, beachfront hotels and vacation rentals offer beautiful ocean views and quick access to Nantucket’s sandy shores. Popular options include The Nantucket Hotel & Resort and The Wauwinet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What movies have been filmed in Nantucket?
Nantucket’s picturesque coastline and historic charm have made it a popular filming destination for both movies and television productions. One of the best-known films shot on the island is “The Witches of Eastwick” (1987), starring Jack Nicholson, Cher, Susan Sarandon and Michelle Pfeiffer, although filming also took place in several Massachusetts communities. The island also inspired the setting of the television series “Wings,” even though the sitcom was largely filmed on studio sets. More recently, “The Perfect Couple,” starring Nicole Kidman, showcased Nantucket’s elegant estates and scenic coastal landscapes.
How many episodes are in “The Five Star Weekend”?
“The Five Star Weekend” consists of eight episodes that adapt Elin Hilderbrand’s bestselling novel while expanding certain storylines for television. Across the season, viewers follow Hollis Shaw as she brings together four women from different periods of her life for what she hopes will be a restorative weekend on Nantucket.
