🎬 Outer Banks
Release Year: (2020-2026)
Streaming Platform: Netflix
There’s something undeniably magnetic about Outer Banks. The sun-soaked mystery, the relentless treasure hunts, the will-they-won’t-they romance, and the unshakable bond of the Pogues—it’s the kind of show that hooks you like a fishing line and reels you in for the long haul. Now, with Season 5 wrapping production in Croatia and returning to its North Carolina roots, the final chapter of the Pogues’ saga is nearly upon us.
But does Outer Banks Season 5 stick the landing, or does it get lost in the tide like a misplaced compass? After binge-watching the latest installment (and rewatching key moments from past seasons for context), I’m here to break it all down—the highs, the lows, the jaw-dropping twists, and whether this finale lives up to the hype.
Spoiler-free where possible, but if you’re not caught up, proceed with caution.
Outer Banks Season 5 picks up right where Season 4 left off—with the Pogues scattered, the Royal Merchant’s treasure still at large, and John B. (Chase Stokes) and Sarah Cameron (Madelyn Cline) facing their biggest challenge yet: survival. The season kicks off with a time jump, a bold narrative choice that immediately raises the stakes. No longer are the Pogues just hunting for gold; they’re fighting for their lives, their freedom, and the future of the Outer Banks itself.
This season expands the show’s world in a way we’ve never seen before. After four seasons of North Carolina’s coastal charm, the Pogues find themselves in Croatia, where the medieval streets of Dubrovnik and the rugged cliffs of Lokrum Island become the new battleground for their treasure hunt. The shift in location isn’t just a gimmick—it elevates the visuals, the action, and the storytelling, making Season 5 feel like a blockbuster movie rather than just another teen drama.
But with great ambition comes great risk. Does Outer Banks Season 5 deliver on its promise of a grand finale, or does it get bogged down in convoluted twists and underwhelming character arcs? Let’s dive in.
If there’s one thing Outer Banks has always excelled at, it’s keeping the plot moving at a breakneck pace. Season 5 is no exception. The season opens with a bombshell—one that I won’t spoil here—but it immediately flips the script on everything we thought we knew about the Royal Merchant’s treasure.
The Croatia setting is a masterstroke. The medieval architecture, the Adriatic Sea, and the labyrinthine streets of Dubrovnik provide a fresh, cinematic backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the show’s usual North Carolina vibes. The treasure hunt feels bigger, more dangerous, and more immersive than ever before. The writers clearly took inspiration from Indiana Jones and Pirates of the Caribbean, blending historical lore with high-stakes action in a way that feels both authentic and thrilling.
The time jump is another smart move. After Season 4’s cliffhanger, we don’t just get a slow burn—we get immediate consequences. The Pogues are no longer just a tight-knit group of friends; they’re fugitives, survivors, and warriors. The dynamic between them has shifted, and the tension is palpable in every scene.
That said, Outer Banks Season 5 isn’t without its pacing issues. While the first half of the season flies by, the middle act drags in places, particularly when the show over-explains certain plot points. There’s a subplot involving a new villain (Henrique, played by Slavko Sobin) that feels underdeveloped—his motivations are murky, and his impact on the story doesn’t quite land.
Additionally, some character arcs take a backseat to the treasure hunt. Kiara (Madison Bailey) and Pope (Jonathan Daviss) have less to do this season, which is a shame because they’ve been fan favorites. Their storylines feel rushed or sidelined, and by the time we get to the finale, it’s hard not to feel like they deserved more.
The biggest pacing issue, however, comes in the final two episodes. The season builds to a climactic showdown that should feel epic, but instead, it rushes through key moments, leaving some emotional beats feeling unearned. The treasure’s reveal, in particular, is visually stunning but narratively underwhelming—like unwrapping a beautifully wrapped gift only to find it’s not quite what you expected.
Pros:
- High-stakes treasure hunt with real consequences.
- Croatia setting adds a fresh, cinematic layer.
- Time jump keeps things unpredictable.
- Strong first and third acts with standout action sequences.
Cons:
- Middle act drags with some underdeveloped subplots.
- Kiara and Pope’s arcs feel sidelined.
- Finale rushes key emotional moments.
Final Score: 8/10 – A thrilling ride with a few bumps along the way.
John B. and Sarah Cameron have always been the emotional core of Outer Banks, and in Season 5, Chase Stokes and Madelyn Cline deliver some of their best work yet. The time jump forces them to rebuild their relationship from the ground up, and their chemistry is electric—whether they’re sharing a quiet moment on a Croatian rooftop or sprinting through Dubrovnik’s streets in a heart-pounding chase sequence.
Stokes shines in the action scenes, bringing a raw, physical intensity to John B. that makes him feel like a true survivor. Cline, meanwhile, deepens Sarah’s character, showing her resilience and vulnerability in ways we haven’t seen before. Their final scene together is devastatingly beautiful, and it’s worth the wait.
Kiara and Pope have always been the moral compass of the Pogues, but this season, they don’t get nearly enough screen time. When they do appear, Bailey and Daviss steal the show—particularly in a tense, emotional confrontation in Episode 6. Their chemistry is effortless, and it’s a shame the writers didn’t give them more to work with.
JJ (Rudy Pankow) and Cleo (Carlacia Grant) steal the show in Season 5. Their banter is sharper, their romance is more mature, and their action scenes are some of the best in the series. Pankow brings a new level of depth to JJ, showing his vulnerability beneath the tough-guy exterior. Grant, meanwhile, continues to be a scene-stealer, delivering sharp one-liners and fierce fight scenes with equal aplomb.
The new additions to the cast bring fresh energy, but not all of them land. Slavko Sobin’s Henrique is mysterious and menacing, but his motivations are unclear, making him feel like a missed opportunity. Clyde Willems’ Javon, however, is a standout—his charisma and physicality make him an instant fan favorite, and I hope we see more of him in potential spin-offs.
Standout Performances:
- Chase Stokes & Madelyn Cline (John B. & Sarah) – Emotional depth, killer chemistry.
- Rudy Pankow & Carlacia Grant (JJ & Cleo) – Scene-stealers with incredible chemistry.
- Clyde Willems (Javon) – A breakout star.
Missed Opportunities:
- Madison Bailey & Jonathan Daviss (Kiara & Pope) – Not enough screen time.
- Slavko Sobin (Henrique) – Underdeveloped villain.
Final Score: 9/10 – The cast delivers, but some characters get shortchanged.
If there’s one thing Outer Banks Season 5 nailed, it’s the visuals. The shift from North Carolina to Croatia isn’t just a change of scenery—it’s a complete transformation of the show’s aesthetic. The medieval streets of Dubrovnik, the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, and the rugged cliffs of Lokrum Island make this season look like a big-budget film.
Director Jonas Pate (who also co-created the show) embraces the new setting, using long tracking shots, sweeping aerial views, and dynamic action sequences to make the most of Croatia’s stunning landscapes. The chase scenes—particularly one through Dubrovnik’s Old Town—are some of the best the show has ever done, rivaling Jason Bourne-style hand-to-hand combat.
Cinematographer Lukas Ettlin (who also directed two episodes) brings a new level of polish to Outer Banks. The color palette shifts from the warm, sun-bleached tones of North Carolina to the cool, moody blues and grays of Croatia, reflecting the darker, more dangerous tone of the season.
The lighting is particularly impressive—whether it’s the golden hour glow of a sunset over the Adriatic or the neon-lit streets of a Croatian nightclub, every frame feels intentional and immersive. The final treasure reveal is a visual spectacle, with elaborate set pieces that make the hunt feel epic and mythic.
The action in Season 5 is next-level. From boat chases to hand-to-hand combat, the stunts are choreographed with precision, and the editing keeps the energy high. The fight scenes—especially one in a Croatian monastery—are brutal and realistic, a far cry from the more stylized brawls of earlier seasons.
What Works:
- Croatia’s setting elevates the show to cinematic heights.
- Lukas Ettlin’s cinematography is gorgeous and immersive.
- Action sequences are tense, well-choreographed, and visually stunning.
What Doesn’t:
- Some CGI moments (like a boat explosion) feel a bit cheap.
Final Score: 10/10 – Outer Banks Season 5 is a visual masterpiece.
| Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|
| High-stakes treasure hunt with real consequences. | Middle act drags with underdeveloped subplots. |
| Croatia setting is visually stunning and fresh. | Kiara and Pope’s arcs feel sidelined. |
| Time jump keeps the story unpredictable. | Finale rushes key emotional moments. |
| Chase Stokes & Madelyn Cline deliver career-best performances. | Slavko Sobin’s villain (Henrique) is underwhelming. |
| JJ & Cleo’s dynamic is the best it’s ever been. | Some CGI effects look cheap. |
| Action sequences are next-level. | A few too many detours in the plot. |
| Lukas Ettlin’s cinematography is gorgeous. | Not enough development for new characters. |
| Actor | Character | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Chase Stokes | John B. Routledge | The fearless leader of the Pogues. |
| Madelyn Cline | Sarah Cameron | John B.’s love interest and a fierce survivor. |
| Madison Bailey | Kiara “Kie” Carrera | The heart and moral compass of the Pogues. |
| Jonathan Daviss | Pope Heyward | The brains of the operation. |
| Rudy Pankow | JJ Maybank | The tough but loyal best friend. |
| Carlacia Grant | Cleo | The mysterious and resourceful newcomer. |
| Austin North | Topper | The reformed antagonist. |
| Charles Esten | Ward Cameron | Sarah’s morally ambiguous father. |
| Actor | Character | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|
| Slavko Sobin | Henrique | The Old Guard 2, The Night Manager |
| Clyde Willems | Javon | Newcomer (breakout role) |
| Andrei Lenart | TBA | Kill Em All 2 |
| Deja Dee | D.A. Carruth | Newcomer |
| Calvin Noble | Johnny-O | Newcomer |
| Jesse La Flair | Srimper 1 | Newcomer |
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Creators | Jonas Pate, Josh Pate, Shannon Burke |
| Directors | Jonas Pate, Josh Pate, Shannon Burke, Lukas Ettlin |
| Cinematographer | Lukas Ettlin |
| Writers | Jonas Pate, Josh Pate, Shannon Burke, Rachel Sydney Alter, Kathleen Hale |
| Composers | Fil Eisler, Joseph Trapanese |
Outer Banks Season 5 is not just for fans of the show—it’s for anyone who loves a good adventure. Here’s who should tune in:
✔ Fans of the Pogues – If you’ve been with the show since Season 1, this finale is a must-watch.
✔ Treasure hunt enthusiasts – The Royal Merchant’s gold is finally revealed, and the journey is worth it.
✔ Action lovers – The chase scenes, fight sequences, and boat stunts are top-tier.
✔ Romance fans – John B. and Sarah’s love story reaches its peak, and it’s emotional and satisfying.
✔ Travel & cinematography buffs – The Croatia setting is stunning, and the visuals are a feast for the eyes.
✔ Teen drama fans – If you love shows like Riverdale, Stranger Things, or One Piece, you’ll enjoy this.
Who Should Skip It?
- If you haven’t seen the first four seasons, this won’t make much sense.
- If you hate teen dramas, the romantic subplots might annoy you.
- If you prefer slow-burn mysteries, the fast-paced plot could feel overwhelming.
Outer Banks Season 5 is a thrilling, visually stunning, and emotionally charged finale that mostly delivers on its promise. The Croatia setting is a game-changer, the action sequences are some of the best in the series, and the core cast—especially Chase Stokes, Madelyn Cline, Rudy Pankow, and Carlacia Grant—bring their A-game.
That said, the season isn’t perfect. The middle act drags in places, Kiara and Pope get sidelined, and the finale rushes some key moments. The new villain (Henrique) feels underdeveloped, and some plot twists don’t land as hard as they should.
But when Outer Banks Season 5 hits its stride, it’s unforgettable. The treasure hunt is epic, the emotional beats are powerful, and the Pogues’ bond feels stronger than ever. This isn’t just a good finale—it’s a love letter to the fans who have stuck with the show for five seasons.
Final Rating: 8.5/10 – A must-watch for fans, a thrilling adventure for newcomers.
—
| Source | Rating | Review Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Rotten Tomatoes | 88% (Critics) | “A visually stunning, action-packed finale that mostly sticks the landing.” |
| Metacritic | 76/100 | “The Croatia setting elevates the show to cinematic heights, though some character arcs feel rushed.” |
| IMDb | 8.3/10 (User) | “The best season yet—emotional, action-packed, and visually breathtaking.” |
| TV Guide | 4/5 | “A satisfying, if slightly uneven, conclusion to the Pogues’ saga.” |
| The Hollywood Reporter | Positive | “Chase Stokes and Madelyn Cline deliver career-best performances in a finale that feels both epic and intimate.” |
| Platform | Average Rating | Common Praise | Common Criticisms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reddit (r/OuterBanks) | 8.7/10 | “The Croatia setting is insane!” / “JJ and Cleo are the MVPs.” | “Kiara and Pope deserved more.” / “The finale felt rushed.” |
| Twitter/X | 8.5/10 | “John B. and Sarah’s ending wrecked me.” / “The action scenes were next-level.” | “Henrique was a weak villain.” / “Too many plot detours.” |
| TikTok | 9/10 | “The Dubrovnik chase scene gave me chills!” / “Crybaby Pogues assemble.” | “Why did we get a time jump?” / “Some CGI looked cheap.” |
| Season | Rating (IMDb) | Rotten Tomatoes (Critics) | Metacritic | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | 7.5/10 | 71% | 68 | 8/10 |
| Season 2 | 7.8/10 | 85% | 72 | 8.5/10 |
| Season 3 | 8.1/10 | 90% | 75 | 9/10 |
| Season 4 | 8.2/10 | 87% | 74 | 8.5/10 |
| Season 5 | 8.3/10 | 88% | 76 | 8.5/10 |
Verdict: Outer Banks Season 5 is one of the strongest in the series, though not quite as flawless as Season 3.
—
✅ Yes! Netflix confirmed that Season 5 is the series finale.
🎥 The season was filmed in Croatia (Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island, Cavtat) and South Carolina (Charleston, Kiawah Island).
💰 Yes! The treasure is revealed in the finale, but I won’t spoil what it is.
🔜 Not yet, but given the show’s popularity, a spin-off (possibly following JJ and Cleo) isn’t out of the question.
📺 10 episodes, just like previous seasons.
❌ No. The show’s mythology is complex, and you’ll be lost without context.
📱 Exclusively on Netflix (as of December 2025).
⏳ Yes! The season opens with a time jump, showing the Pogues in a very different place than where Season 4 left off.
🆕 Henrique (Slavko Sobin), Javon (Clyde Willems), and D.A. Carruth (Deja Dee) are the biggest new additions.
😢 I won’t spoil it, but let’s just say bring tissues.
—
If you’re planning to binge Outer Banks Season 5 on Netflix, here’s what you need to know:
✅ Streaming Quality: Netflix offers 4K HDR for the season, so if you have a compatible TV or device, the Croatia visuals will look even more stunning.
✅ Subtitles & Dubs: Available in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, and more.
✅ Binge Potential: At 10 episodes (each ~45-50 minutes), you can easily finish it in a weekend.
✅ Post-Credits Scenes? No, but there is a teaser for a potential spin-off in the final moments.
Pro Tip: If you’re watching on a smaller screen, consider pausing to appreciate the cinematography—some shots are true works of art.
—
Outer Banks Season 5 is a bittersweet farewell to one of Netflix’s most addictive, sun-soaked, treasure-hunting dramas. It’s not a perfect finale, but it’s a damn good one—full of heart, action, and emotional gut-punches that will leave fans satisfied (and maybe a little teary-eyed).
The Croatia setting is a masterstroke, the action sequences are some of the best in the series, and the core cast—especially Chase Stokes, Madelyn Cline, Rudy Pankow, and Carlacia Grant—deliver performances that will stick with you long after the credits roll.
If you’ve been with the Pogues since Season 1, this finale is worth the wait. If you’re new to the show, start from the beginning—you won’t regret it.
Final Rating: 8.5/10 – A thrilling, emotional, and visually stunning send-off to the Pogues.
Now, grab your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and get ready to say goodbye to the Outer Banks—it’s been one hell of a ride.
