Travelers who have spent time on Big Pine Key in Florida might recognize familiar spots when Vince Vaughn’s ‘Bad Monkey’ returns for its second season. The show recently filmed scenes on the island. Production crews even made a special stop at Big Pine Key RV Park.
The waterfront resort, which is a favorite for Florida snowbirds and families, served as the backdrop for scenes in the upcoming season.
“The Big Pine Key RV Park guests were so excited. Getting a behind-the-scenes look at a TV show is a real RV resort perk that our guests didn’t expect.”
Savannah Shafer, Community Manager at Big Pine Key RV Park
Florida Keys Waterfront RV Resort Welcomes ‘Bad Monkey’
Production, including actor Vince Vaughn, shot scenes at the RV campground in early February over two days.
Look for scenes along the canal at Big Pine Key RV Park, boat launch, and even outside of the resort store/front desk, which was temporarily renamed for the shoot. ‘Bad Monkey’ even pulled in Big Pine Key RV Park employees as extras.
“It was a cool experience for everyone staying at our waterfront resort. And Vaughn was great and very friendly,” explained Shafer.
‘Bad Monkey’ is a dark comedy based on Carl Hiaasen’s novel by the same name. Vince Vaughn plays Andrew Yancy, a former Miami police officer turned health inspector/renegade detective who uncovers greed and corruption.
The ‘Bad Monkey’ production was a welcome bonus for resort guests who spend the season fishing, soaking up the Florida Keys sun, and taking advantage of the resort amenities and entertainment.
The shoot came together quickly, according to Shafer, who oversees the ten-acre Cove Communities resort.
The Monroe County Commission only approved the use of county conservation lands on Big Pine Key for filming on January 28. The RV resort neighbors a protected wildlife preserve – the National Key Deer Refuge. The endangered key deer are a staple on the island. The deer are also known to wander through the RV park along the famous Overseas Highway.
Behind the Scenes of Apple TV’s ‘Bad Monkey’
Shafer is happy to welcome the local wildlife and the ‘Bad Monkey’ crew back to Big Pine Key RV Park anytime.
“Everyone was super professional and friendly, from the location scouts to the director.”
“We’ve had a great time hosting the crew and showing off our bit of paradise.”
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Everyone can catch ‘Bad Monkey’ second season when it begins streaming in late 2026 or early 2027. ‘Bad Monkey’ premiered on Apple TV+ in August 2024 to award nominations and strong reviews.
“It gets better as it goes along,” explained critic and NPR contributor David Bianculli. “And even those who already read the book will be surprised in spots because some of the characters in this TV series meet different fates than in the book.”
Apple TV approved the production of season two by December.
Season 2 includes returning stars Natalie Martinez, Charlotte Lawrence, and John Ortiz, according to Deadline. New additions include John Malkovich, Peter Billingsley, and June Diane Raphael.
‘Bad Monkey’ Returns to Big Pine Key
The new season isn’t the first time Big Pine Key has been featured on the AppleTV hit.
Season one also features scenes shot on Big Pine Key. Production began in 2022 with Vaughn and company using Key West and other Florida Keys favorites as a backdrop.
“They filmed scenes right down the way from the RV resort during season one. We’d see them driving by all the time,” said Shafer, who hopes the show is renewed for a third season.
About Big Pine Key, Florida
The Florida Keys’ favorite is home to more than the key deer. It’s a year-round favorite for folks looking for a quieter, more affordable alternative to Key West. But don’t assume “quiet” means boring.
Resorts like Big Pine Key RV Park serve up more than a place to stay. Big Pine Key offers RV sites, vacation cottages, rustic tent sites, airstream rentals, and luxury travel trailer rentals.
Beyond the accommodations is a packed schedule with activities, world-class fishing, and live entertainment. It’s a favorite stop for up-and-coming country artists like Blake Tyler and Peyton Porter.
You can find pricing and availability online if you’re interested in staying at the waterfront resort. The proximity to the Florida Keys must-sees is a bonus.
Located in the middle of the Keys, Big Pine Key places guests close to Bahia Honda State Park. It’s also the midway point (mile marker 33 on the Overseas Highway) to Key West. But don’t make Big Pine Key a pit stop along the way. Travel pros call Big Pine Key a “must-stop. It’s more than a mile marker. It’s a true Florida vacation experience.