Tyler Perry is back with another Madea comedy—this time sending the iconic matriarch on a tropical adventure in Madea’s Destination Wedding, now streaming on Netflix. While the film is set in the Bahamas, most of it was actually shot thousands of miles away, in Perry’s hometown of Atlanta, Georgia.
So if you’re wondering whether Madea actually left the country, the answer is mostly no—though a few scenes did make it to the islands.
Primary Filming Location: Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, Georgia
The bulk of the film was shot at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, where Perry continues to produce his content with his signature speed and efficiency.
According to a report by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, principal photography took place from January 15 to January 26, 2024—a remarkably fast timeline for a feature film.
Indoor scenes—including weddings, family arguments, and hotel setups—were constructed on soundstages at the studio, making clever use of set design to replicate the look of a luxurious Caribbean destination.
Why Not Film in the Bahamas?
While Madea’s Destination Wedding might sound like the perfect excuse to shoot a movie in paradise, Perry’s approach to filmmaking prioritizes controlled environments, speed, and cost-efficiency.
As a result, exterior shots of palm trees, ocean views, and sunny resort life were minimized—and in many cases, faked with indoor sets and green screens. This approach also helps Perry avoid the costs and logistics of a full overseas production.
Some Scenes Were Shot in the Dominican Republic
For moments that did require authentic outdoor beach scenes, a small unit from the production team filmed on location in the Dominican Republic, which served as a stand-in for the Bahamas.
The Caribbean backdrop allowed for some scenic visuals, helping to establish the tropical setting without moving the entire cast and crew out of the country.
Atlantis Paradise Island Resort: A Real Bahamas Cameo
In a rare exception, a few key scenes were filmed on location at the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort in the Bahamas. These shots were likely captured for establishing visuals—glimpses of palm trees, crystal-blue water, and the grand resort exteriors seen in wide-angle cuts.
While brief, they offer a touch of authenticity to an otherwise Atlanta-based production.
Conclusion: The Bahamas Are in Atlanta (Mostly)
So, where was Madea’s Destination Wedding filmed? For the most part: Atlanta, Georgia. A bit of Dominican Republic, and a splash of real Bahamas resort footage for good measure.
It’s all part of Tyler Perry’s unique production model—delivering fast, affordable, and tightly managed filmmaking, even when the story takes viewers to a beachfront paradise.
