Few things go better together than a sandy beach, warm sunshine, and a good book you can’t put down. Whether you’re soaking up some rays on a tropical shore or cozying up on a quiet lakefront, the right book can be your perfect companion. Beach reads should be captivating, enjoyable, and just light enough for an escape. These are ten books that will keep you turning pages while you dig your toes into the sand.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This story of old-Hollywood glamour mixed with heartfelt drama is absolutely made for a beach day. Evelyn Hugo, a legendary actress in her later years, dishes out the secrets of her life and loves to an unsuspecting journalist. Between stunning twists and lush descriptions, it’s the kind of book you’ll devour in one sitting.
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
Prepare for laughs, swoons, and all the cozy vibes. This charming romance follows Poppy and Alex, two polar-opposite best friends who reunite for one last summer trip to save their relationship. It’s witty, heartwarming, and full of travel adventures that will feel right at home under the summer sun.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
If you’re in the mood for a book that’s juicy with a side of suspense, this one is for you. Set in an affluent community where everyone has secrets, it follows three women as their lives intertwine in unexpected ways. With its mix of humor, drama, and a bit of mystery, it’s perfect for curling up by the waves.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Set against a stunning marsh backdrop, this mix of coming-of-age story, romance, and murder mystery will keep you hooked from start to finish. The writing is so vivid, you’ll feel like you can hear the rustle of the marsh grasses and smell the salt in the air. For a beachy environment, it’s pure perfection.
Beach Read by Emily Henry
This title gives off all the summer vibes and then some. It’s a romance about two writers spending the summer in neighboring houses, each trying to beat a creative block. Their banter is sharp, and their chemistry is electric. It’s light enough for relaxing but deep enough to keep you engaged.
Circe by Madeline Miller
If you want a little mythology with your beach trip, this is the book for you. Circe’s story unfolds with stunning imagery and powerful themes of strength and self-discovery. The vivid writing makes it easy to picture yourself on her island, surrounded by magic, gods, and intrigue.
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Taylor Jenkins Reid strikes again, but this time the story takes you straight to the beaches of Malibu. Set in the 1980s, it follows the glamorous Riva siblings as their annual summer bash spirals out of control. It’s sun-soaked drama at its finest, with family tension, secrets, and relationships taking center stage.
The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren
A romantic comedy set in a tropical paradise? Yes, please. When Olive is forced to fake a honeymoon with the best man she can’t stand, hilarity and undeniable chemistry ensue. It’s breezy, lighthearted, and full of laugh-out-loud moments, making it an excellent pick for a carefree beach day.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Quirky, charming, and unexpectedly moving, this book is an emotional rollercoaster in the best way. It follows Eleanor, a socially awkward woman whose predictable life is turned upside down. It’s heartfelt, funny, and the ultimate feel-good read—even better with the ocean as a backdrop.
The Vacationers by Emma Straub
What better book for a beach getaway than one titled The Vacationers? This novel about family members navigating their relationships during a trip to Mallorca will make you laugh, cringe, and feel all the feels. It’s a perfect reminder that no vacation is Instagram-perfect, and that’s okay.
