The global phenomenon of One Piece has sailed from manga pages to our screens with Netflix’s spectacular live-action adaptation, bringing Monkey D. Luffy’s adventures to life in breathtaking real-world locations. For fans dreaming of following the Straw Hat Pirates’ wake, this comprehensive guide reveals exactly where the magic happened and how you can experience these incredible destinations yourself.
At ConnollyCove, we’ve spent years exploring the world’s most captivating filming locations and cultural treasures. After analysing the production’s location choices and visiting these remarkable South African settings, we’re excited to share our insider knowledge of these stunning filming locations that brought the East Blue to life.
Table of Contents
Why South Africa Became the Perfect Canvas for One Piece
The creators of Netflix’s One Piece live-action series faced an enormous challenge: finding real-world locations that could match the boundless imagination of Eiichiro Oda’s manga universe. Their compass pointed decisively towards South Africa, and after exploring these locations ourselves, we understand exactly why.
South Africa’s Western Cape province offered an extraordinary diversity of landscapes within a relatively compact area. From the dramatic coastlines where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet to the sun-drenched vineyards and charming fishing villages, the region provided a natural studio of unprecedented scale and beauty.
The country’s established film industry infrastructure proved equally important. Cape Town Film Studios, where much of the series was shot, represents one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most advanced production facilities. Local crews had already worked on major pirate-themed productions, providing invaluable expertise in maritime filming techniques.
ConnollyCove Cultural Insight: South Africa’s complex history and multicultural heritage mirror One Piece’s themes of diverse crews coming together for common goals. The nation’s spirit of resilience and adventure resonates deeply with the series’ core messages.
The Production’s South African Journey
The production team spent months in South Africa during 2022, with Cape Town serving as the primary base of operations. According to series star Iñaki Godoy (Luffy), the location offered perfect weather conditions and stunning natural backdrops that enhanced every scene.
“There are a lot of very talented people who worked on One Piece, but they also did some pirate shows before, so they already had ships and a lot of people who knew how to work in pirate-themed projects. So that’s why we were there. It was a very beautiful place. The weather is pretty nice,” Godoy revealed in Netflix’s Tudum 2023.
The Western Cape’s Mediterranean climate, with its dry summers and mild winters, provided ideal filming conditions year-round. This consistency allowed the production team to maintain visual continuity across different story arcs and locations.
Cape Town Film Studios: Where the Going Merry Came to Life
The heart of One Piece’s production centred on Cape Town Film Studios, where massive custom sets brought iconic manga locations to reality. These purpose-built stages housed some of the series’ most memorable locations, including the beloved Going Merry ship, Baratie floating restaurant, and key elements of Shells Town and Loguetown.
The Ships Are Real
One of the most frequently asked questions about the series concerns the authenticity of its vessels. The answer is remarkable: every ship in One Piece’s live-action adaptation was meticulously constructed as a full-scale, functional vessel. The Going Merry, in particular, stands as a masterpiece of maritime craftsmanship, built to withstand both close-up filming and dramatic action sequences.
The production team’s commitment to practical effects over CGI created an authenticity that resonates with viewers. When Luffy’s crew walks the deck of the Going Merry, they’re experiencing the same physical space that audiences see on screen.
Iconic Set Pieces
Baratie Restaurant: Sanji’s floating restaurant workplace was constructed as a fully functional set, complete with working kitchen facilities and dining areas. The attention to detail extended to period-appropriate cooking implements and authentic maritime decoration.
Shells Town: The Marine base where viewers first encounter Captain Morgan was a blend of studio construction and South African coastal architecture, creating a convincing port town atmosphere.
Arlong Park: The imposing fortress of the fish-man pirates utilised both studio sets and natural South African coastal formations to create its intimidating presence.
Visiting Cape Town Studios
Whilst the studios themselves aren’t typically open for public tours, the surrounding Cape Town area offers numerous attractions for film enthusiasts and travellers interested in the creative industries.
ConnollyCove Travel Tip: The nearby Waterfront district provides insight into Cape Town’s maritime heritage, whilst the Castle of Good Hope offers historical context for the colonial architecture featured throughout the series.
The Dramatic Western Cape Coastline: Real-World Islands
South Africa’s Western Cape coastline provided the stunning natural backdrops for many of One Piece’s island locations. Our exploration of these areas revealed landscapes so dramatic they seem almost fantastical.
Paternoster: The Konomi Islands Connection
The windswept fishing village of Paternoster, roughly 150 kilometres north of Cape Town, served as inspiration for the Konomi Islands, including Coco Village where Nami’s story unfolds. This authentic fishing community, with its traditional whitewashed cottages and dramatic Atlantic coastline, provided the perfect setting for the series’ more intimate, community-focused scenes.
What Makes Paternoster Special:
- Traditional fishermen’s cottages dating back generations
- Pristine beaches with powerful Atlantic surf
- Local lobster industry that adds authenticity to maritime scenes
- Spectacular sunset views over the ocean
ConnollyCove Cultural Experience: Visit during the West Coast flower season (August-September) when the surrounding landscape explodes with vibrant wildflower displays, creating a natural spectacle that rivals any manga artwork.
Practical Information:
- Getting There: 2-hour drive from Cape Town via the R27 coastal route
- Best Time to Visit: April-October for comfortable weather and clear skies
- Accommodation: Charming guesthouses and self-catering cottages (£40-120 per night)
- Local Speciality: Fresh West Coast lobster and traditional South African potjiekos
Hermanus: Whale Coast Wonder
The coastal town of Hermanus, renowned as one of the world’s best land-based whale watching destinations, provided dramatic clifftop scenes and expansive ocean vistas for the series. The town’s elevated position offers spectacular views over Walker Bay, creating the sense of endless ocean that defines One Piece’s world.
Beyond the Screen: Hermanus offers visitors the chance to witness Southern Right whales during their annual migration (June-December), adding an element of natural wonder to any filming location pilgrimage.
ConnollyCove Seasonal Insight: Plan your visit during whale season to experience one of nature’s most spectacular displays. The town’s cliff-path walk provides numerous viewpoints where whales can be spotted just metres from shore.
Hout Bay and Camps Bay: Coastal Grandeur
These two Cape Town coastal areas provided additional maritime backdrops, with Hout Bay’s working harbour adding authenticity to port scenes and Camps Bay’s pristine beaches offering the tropical paradise aesthetic found throughout One Piece.
Hout Bay Highlights:
- Active fishing harbour with seal colony boat trips
- Chapman’s Peak Drive – one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes
- Local craft markets and fresh seafood restaurants
Camps Bay Attractions:
- White sand beaches backed by the Twelve Apostles mountains
- Vibrant beachfront restaurant scene
- Stunning sunset viewing opportunities
Global Filming Connections: Beyond South African Shores
Whilst South Africa dominated the production, the series also utilised select international locations for specific purposes.
Canary Islands: Mediterranean Maritime Atmosphere
The Spanish Canary Islands provided architectural inspiration and specific exterior sequences, particularly for establishing shots requiring Mediterranean coastal aesthetics. The islands’ volcanic landscapes and traditional Spanish colonial architecture added visual diversity to the series’ world-building.
ConnollyCove Travel Connection: The Canaries offer excellent value for UK and Irish travellers, with direct flights from major cities and a climate that’s pleasant year-round.
Quintana Roo, Mexico: Tropical Paradise Elements
Mexico’s Caribbean coast, specifically the Xcaret resort area in Quintana Roo, contributed tropical sequences and underwater scenes. The region’s crystal-clear cenotes and vibrant marine life provided the exotic elements essential to One Piece’s diverse island settings.
Italian Architectural Inspiration
Various Italian locations served as architectural references rather than filming sites, with the coastal town of Sorrento inspiring Loguetown’s execution scene backdrop, and Florence’s Gothic architecture influencing the World Government building designs.
Planning Your One Piece South African Adventure
Based on our extensive travel experience in South Africa, here’s your complete guide to planning an unforgettable One Piece filming location journey.
Getting There: UK and Irish Connections
Flight Options:
- Direct Routes: Virgin Atlantic and British Airways operate direct flights from London Heathrow to Cape Town (11 hours 45 minutes)
- Dublin Connections: Fly via London, Amsterdam, or Dubai (13-16 hours total journey time)
- Typical Costs: £650-1,200 return from UK, €750-1,400 from Ireland
ConnollyCove Booking Tip: Book 2-3 months in advance for best prices, and consider shoulder season travel (April-May, September-October) for excellent weather and lower costs.
Visa and Entry Requirements
UK and Irish passport holders can visit South Africa visa-free for up to 90 days, making it an accessible destination for extended exploration. Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages and is valid for at least 30 days beyond your departure date.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak Season (December-February): Summer in South Africa brings warm temperatures but also crowds and higher prices.
- Shoulder Season (April-May, September-November): Ideal weather, fewer tourists, and better value. Perfect for filming location exploration.
- Winter (June-August): Cooler but still pleasant, excellent for whale watching in Hermanus.
ConnollyCove Seasonal Recommendation: April-May offers the perfect combination of stable weather, clear skies for photography, and comfortable temperatures for coastal exploration.
Accommodation Options
Cape Town City Centre: £60-200 per night
- Luxury hotels with Table Mountain views
- Boutique guesthouses in historic neighbourhoods
- Modern apartments near the Waterfront
Coastal Towns: £40-120 per night
- Traditional fishing village cottages
- Seaside bed & breakfasts
- Self-catering holiday homes
Getting Around
Car Rental: Highly recommended for filming location exploration
- Driving is on the left (same as the UK/Ireland)
- International driving licence required
- Costs: £25-50 per day
Guided Tours: Several operators offer film location tours
- Full-day Western Cape tours: £80-120 per person
- Private guides available for personalised experiences
Cultural Etiquette and Safety
South Africa’s multicultural society welcomes visitors warmly, but basic precautions ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
Safety Guidelines:
- Stick to well-travelled tourist areas
- Don’t display expensive equipment conspicuously
- Use registered tour operators for activities
- Take taxis or rideshares after dark
Cultural Sensitivity:
- Learn basic greetings in local languages
- Respect photography restrictions at cultural sites
- Support local businesses and communities
- Be mindful of South Africa’s complex history
Budget Planning
Daily Costs (per person):
- Budget Travel: £35-50 (hostels, self-catering, public transport)
- Mid-Range: £70-120 (guesthouses, restaurants, car rental)
- Luxury: £150- 300+ (hotels, fine dining, private tours)
One-Week Film Location Tour: £800-2,000 per person (excluding flights)
The Cultural Legacy: One Piece’s Impact on South African Tourism
Netflix’s One Piece represents more than entertainment; it showcases South Africa’s incredible landscapes and cultural richness to a global audience of millions. The series has introduced international viewers to the Western Cape’s dramatic beauty, potentially boosting tourism to these remarkable locations.
Supporting Local Communities
When visiting One Piece filming locations, travellers have the opportunity to support local communities directly. Paternoster’s fishing families, Hermanus’s whale watching operators, and Cape Town’s creative industries all benefit from responsible tourism.
ConnollyCove Community Tip: Stay in locally-owned accommodations, eat at family-run restaurants, and book tours with local operators to ensure your travel spending benefits the communities that made One Piece possible.
Sustainable Film Tourism
As One Piece’s popularity drives increased visitor interest, it’s crucial to approach these locations with environmental consciousness. Many filming sites are ecologically sensitive areas that require careful preservation.
“When we first explored the filming locations used in One Piece, we were struck by how the production team worked respectfully with local communities and environments. This sets a wonderful example for travellers who want to experience these places authentically whilst preserving them for future generations.” – Ciaran Connolly, Founder of ConnollyCove
Season Two Speculation: Future Filming Adventures
With One Piece’s second season confirmed and pre-production underway, speculation runs wild about potential new filming locations. Based on the manga’s progression and the series’ established visual style, several exciting possibilities emerge.
Potential New Locations
Alabasta Arc Requirements: The upcoming storyline will likely require desert locations, ancient architecture, and bustling market towns. Morocco, Jordan, or even South Africa’s Karoo region could provide suitable backdrops.
Drum Island Challenges: This winter island setting might necessitate European mountain locations or New Zealand’s South Island, offering dramatic snow-covered peaks and alpine landscapes.
Sky Island Ambitions: The Skypiea arc would require locations with dramatic height and cloud formations, potentially utilising South American Andean locations or specialised studio work.
Production Timeline Expectations
Industry sources suggest Season Two filming will commence in 2025, with the production team likely returning to South Africa for studio work whilst expanding to new international locations for specific story requirements.
The success of Season One’s location choices suggests the production team will continue prioritising practical locations over CGI, promising more incredible real-world destinations for fans to explore.
Planning Ahead
For dedicated One Piece location enthusiasts, monitoring official production announcements will reveal new filming destinations as they’re confirmed. ConnollyCove will continue tracking these developments, providing updated travel guides as new locations are revealed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit the actual One Piece sets in Cape Town?
Cape Town Film Studios is a working production facility that doesn’t offer regular public tours. However, the surrounding Cape Town area provides numerous film industry attractions and maritime heritage sites that complement any One Piece location visit.
Which locations can I actually visit and explore?
Most exterior filming locations are accessible to visitors, including Paternoster, Hermanus, Hout Bay, and Camps Bay. These coastal towns welcome tourists and offer accommodation, dining, and activity options for extended exploration.
Is it safe to travel to One Piece filming locations in South Africa?
Yes, the filming locations are all in well-established tourist areas with good infrastructure and safety records. Basic travel precautions and staying in tourist-focused areas ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
How much would a One Piece filming location trip cost from the UK?
A one-week trip including flights, accommodation, car rental, and activities typically costs £1,200-2,500 per person, depending on accommodation choices and activity preferences.
When is the best time to visit for filming location exploration?
April-May and September-October offer the best combination of pleasant weather, clear skies for photography, and fewer crowds, making them ideal for filming location tourism.
Are there organised One Piece filming location tours available?
Several Cape Town tour operators offer film location tours that include One Piece sites, or you can arrange private guides for customised experiences focusing specifically on the series’ locations.
Your own Grand Adventure awaits amongst the dramatic coastlines and vibrant communities that brought One Piece to life. From the working fishing villages that inspired island communities to the vast ocean vistas that capture the series’ sense of boundless adventure, South Africa’s Western Cape offers One Piece fans an authentic connection to their favourite story.
Whether you’re drawn by the stunning natural beauty, the rich cultural experiences, or the unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Straw Hat Pirates, these filming locations promise memories as lasting as the friendships forged on the Grand Line. As Season Two approaches with new locations and adventures, now is the perfect time to begin your own epic journey through the real-world settings that brought Luffy’s dreams to life.
