While the novel took place in North Carolina, the movie was set in Tybee Island, GA to take advantage of Georgia's film tax credits. Establishing shots of local landmarks such as the lighthouse and scenes filmed around town (see below) offer a rare view of Tybee Island from Hollywood.
Zoom to: Atlanta, GA,
The house where Ronnie stays for the summer, and beach area in front is used for many scenes. For a better view check it out with Bing maps bird's eye view
this chapel, originally at 6th Ave and 13th, was built for the film and moved to U.S. 80 to become a local wedding chapel
This area is used for the bonfire scene. Marcus hits on Ronnie under the pier.