The beach is an inspiring place for many musicians and creatives.

37 BEST Songs About The Beach For Every Mood 2024

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Whether you’re actually on your dream vacation in Tahiti or just daydreaming about it, sometimes it can feel great to listen to a song about the beach. For many people, the beach represents being completely relaxed and at peace, without a care in the world. 

This song list includes a variety of tracks about the beach. Though they span decades and genres, they share a common theme of making you feel like you’re next to the ocean while you listen. 

There are classic pop-punk anthems, surf-rock jams, country ballads, and some bubblegum pop. No matter what your definition of a great song about the beach is, you’ll find something you love on this list. 

Songs About The Beach

Songs about the beach should capture the blissful and carefree feeling of summer and spending time by the water. These songs do just that, so they’re perfect for your beach playlist.

1. Toes – Zac Brown Band

“Toes” is a song by the American country music group the Zac Brown Band. The song is known for its laid-back, beachy vibe and its references to relaxation and carefree living.

The song “Toes” tells the story of a man who is looking to escape the stresses of life and enjoy a more simple existence, like the one you’d find on a beach. The chorus repeats the line “Life is good today”, which captures the vibe of the song and his escape from reality to a beach somewhere. 

The song has a catchy melody and relatable theme, making it the perfect addition to a beachy summer playlist.

2. Waves – Mr. Probz

“Waves” by Mr. Probz is an international hit that was first released in April 2013. It didn’t get much attention until it was remixed by Robin Schulz, a German DJ and record producer to make it more up-tempo

Lyrically, “Waves” is about the ups and downs of a romantic relationship. It uses ocean waves as a metaphor to describe the feeling of rolling through the highs and lows of a turbulent relationship.

Songs about the beach can be chill, fun or emotional, there's a song for every mood.

The music video for Waves was filmed in Tulum, Mexico and includes shots of the town and nearby Mayan ruins.

3. Kokomo – The Beach Boys

“Kokomo” by The Beach Boys was released in 1988 as a single from their album “Still Cruisin’.” The song was featured in the movie “Cocktail” and became one of The Beach Boys’ most recognizable hits. While “Kokomo” is not a typical representation of The Beach Boys’ earlier sound, it still captures a sense of tropical escapism and beachy vibes.

The song “Kokomo” is about a fictional place named Kokomo, described as a tropical paradise in the Caribbean. The song paints a vivid picture of this idyllic destination, mentioning various locations, activities, and attractions you might find in a beach resort. 

It’s a feel-good, escapist anthem.

4. Island in the Sun – Weezer

“Island in the Sun” is a song by the American rock band Weezer, released as a single from their second self-titled album in 2001. 

Songs about the beach are perfect for a vacation playlist or just a playlist to make you feel like you're on vacation.

Island in the Sun” is about seeking escape, relaxation, and a sense of tranquility. The song’s melody, along with its catchy guitar riff and infectious rhythm, contributes to its carefree and uplifting atmosphere.

5. Sweater Weather – The Neighbourhood

“Sweater Weather” is a song by The Neighborhood, an American alternative rock band. It was released as the lead single from their debut album, “I Love You,” in 2013. The song became a significant hit, reaching number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 list.

Often, “Sweater Weather” is interpreted as a song about love, connection, and making the best of any situation you might find yourself in. The song combines atmospheric and moody musical elements with relatable and evocative lyrics, making it almost endlessly resonate.

With lyrical mentions of the beach and California, it’s a great addition to any playlist that needs a little alternative rock edge. 

6. The Boys of Summer – The Ataris

“The Boys of Summer” is a song originally written and performed by Don Henley, a founding member of the Eagles. The Ataris covered “The Boys of Summer” in 2003, putting their own punk rock spin on the song. 

“The Boys of Summer” is a nostalgic reflection on youth, love, and growing older. 

In The Ataris’ cover, the song retains the original’s themes of nostalgia and lost love while infusing it with a more energetic and youthful musical style.

7. Beach Shack – Elvis Presley

“Beach Shack” is a song by Elvis Presley that was released in 1966 as part of the soundtrack for the movie “Spinout.” The song was written by Bill Giant, Bernie Baum, and Florence Kaye.

In “Beach Shack,” the narrator invites a woman to come join him in his small shack on the beach. He tells her, “Be my guest, have a snack/See how nice I feed company/In my little beach shack.” 

The overall feel of the song is romantic and playful, the perfect addition to a summer beach playlist. 

8. I Want to Go to the Beach – Iggy Pop

“I Want to Go to the Beach” is a song by Iggy Pop from his 2009 album “Préliminaires.” The album as a whole was influenced by the French novel “La Possibilité d’une île” by Michel Houellebecq.

It marked a departure from Iggy Pop’s typical rock sound, incorporating elements of New Orleans-style jazz.

The beach is an inspiring place for many musicians and creatives.

“I Want to Go to the Beach” is a melancholic and reflective song that conveys a sense of longing and nostalgia. The phrase “I want to go to the beach” could be seen as a metaphor for seeking solace, tranquility, and a break from the challenges of the world.

9. Some Beach – Blake Shelton

“Some Beach” is a 2004 country song by American singer Blake Shelton. The song’s lyrics humorously depict a series of maddening situations that lead the narrator to daydream about being on a beach “somewhere.”

The lyrics of “Some Beach” detail various annoying scenarios, such as traffic jams or a cell phone battery dying. In each situation, the narrator’s exasperation grows, prompting him to think about a hypothetical “some beach, somewhere” where life’s annoyances wouldn’t bother him.

It’s a lighthearted and fun song to listen to, whether you’re actually at the beach or just longing to be there. 

10. Somewhere On A Beach – Dierks Bentley

“Somewhere on a Beach” is a country song by American singer Dierks Bentley. Released in 2016 as the lead single from his studio album, “Black,” the song became a commercial success and topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

In “Somewhere on a Beach,” Bentley sings about a man who is dealing with a recent breakup. He finds himself on a beach somewhere, trying to move on. Despite his heartbreak, he’s enjoying the sun, the sand, and the company of other people, particularly a new romantic interest.

Overall, “Somewhere on a Beach” captures the feeling of trying to move on from a broken relationship by seeking temporary happiness and escapism.

It’s the perfect summer anthem for anyone trying to move on from a broken heart by spending some quality time having fun at the beach.

11. Summertime – Bon Jovi

“Summertime” is a song by the American rock band Bon Jovi. It was released in 2007 as a single from their album “Lost Highway.” 

Bon Jovi’s “Summertime” describes a past romance that took place during the summer. The lyrics, “It’s like a beach blanket and a bottle of wine/It feels something like summertime,” capture the nostalgia of a bygone summer fling.

12. All Summer Long – Kid Rock

“All Summer Long” is a truly iconic song by American musician Kid Rock. It was a huge commercial success and remains one of Kid Rock’s signature songs, capturing the spirit of summertime and the enduring appeal of classic rock music.

“All Summer Long” is known for its summery and nostalgic vibe, as well as its blend of rock and country elements. The lyrics of “All Summer Long” evoke a sense of nostalgia and youthful memories of carefree summer days. 

The song’s use of the familiar melodies from Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama” and Warren Zevon’s “Werewolves of London” adds to its nostalgic charm and makes it resonate with a wide audience.

13. Under the Boardwalk – The Drifters

“Under the Boardwalk” is a song by the American doo-wop and R&B vocal group, The Drifters. It was released in 1964 and has become one of the group’s most iconic and beloved songs. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a romantic and carefree scene under a boardwalk at the beach.

“Under the Boardwalk” describes a summertime scene where couples gather to enjoy each other’s company. The song captures the essence of a romantic rendezvous and the excitement of escaping to a hidden spot with a loved one. 

Musicians have been writing songs about the beach for decades, making it a timeless topic.

The catchy melody and harmonious vocals of The Drifters contributed to the song’s enduring popularity.

14. Santa Monica – Everclear

“Santa Monica” is a song by the American rock band Everclear. It was released in 1995 as a single from their album “Sparkle and Fade.” The song’s lyrics are deeply personal and explore themes of loss and the complexities of relationships.

The lyrics of “Santa Monica” seem to describe a relationship that has ended, leaving the narrator feeling heartbroken and disconnected. The song’s chorus, “I am still living with your ghost / Lonely and dreaming of the west coast,” suggests that the memories of the past relationship continue to haunt the narrator, even as they try to move on.

The reference to Santa Monica, a coastal city in California, likely symbolizes a place of refuge.

15. No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem – Kenny Chesney

“No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem” is a song about escaping from the pressures and stresses of life and enjoying a simple, laid-back existence on the beach. It was released in 2002 by American country music artist Kenny Chesney and peaked at number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100 list. 

The song paints a picture of idyllic moments spent on the beach. You can picture him sitting in the sand, swimming, and basking in the sun, all while letting his problem be bygone memories.  

Vising the beach is about creating idyllic moments or relaxation and fun in the sun.

The song’s catchy melody and relaxed vibe have made it a favorite among fans of Kenny Chesney’s music.

16. Rockaway Beach – The Ramones

“Rockaway Beach” is a song about spending a day at Rockaway Beach in Queens, New York. It was released in 1977 by the American punk rock band The Ramones on their third studio album, “Rocket to Russia.” 

It was the band’s highest-charting single, peaking at 66 on the Billboard Hot 100. 

The song captures the spirit of summertime and the excitement of spending a day at the beach with friends, enjoying the sand, surf, and sun. It’s a classic example of The Ramones’ straightforward and infectious songwriting style, which often focused on themes of youth, rebellion, and pop culture.

17. Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini – Brian Hyland

“Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini” is a novelty song recorded by American pop singer Brian Hyland in 1960. 

The song is a light-hearted and playful tale about a shy young woman’s reluctance to wear a daring yellow polka dot bikini to the beach. As the story unfolds, the song captures her journey from hesitation to embracing her swimsuit.

It’s the perfect addition to a vintage beach playlist.

18. Miami – Will Smith

“Miami” is a song by Will Smith, an American rapper and actor. The song is an upbeat tribute to the city of Miami, Florida, known for its vibrant culture, nightlife, and beach scenes.

The lyrics of “Miami” celebrate many aspects of the city, from its beautiful beaches and warm weather to its diverse culture and energetic nightlife. Smith raps about enjoying the city’s vibe, dancing, and having a good time.

The song’s catchy melody and infectious rhythm contributed to its popularity. It became a notable hit for Will Smith, hitting 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 list.

19. Sand in My Shoes – Dido

“Sand in My Shoes” is a song by British singer-songwriter Dido. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of nostalgia for a romantic encounter she had while on holiday. She still has sand from the beach in her shoes, hinting at how recent and real the encounter was, though she knows it’s over. 

Dido’s melancholic and introspective style shines through in “Sand in My Shoes.” The song’s wistful tone and Dido’s emotive delivery have resonated with listeners, making it a poignant and memorable track from her discography.

20. Circle In the Sand – Belinda Carlisle

“Circle in the Sand” is a song by American singer Belinda Carlisle, former lead vocalist of the Go-Go’s, that was released in 1988. The song is known for its catchy pop sound and romantic lyrics.

Many summer anthems are centered around life on the beach and escapism.

The song is about love and longing. The chorus includes the lines “Circle in the sand, ‘round and ‘round / Never-ending love is what we’ve found” reflects the idea of love’s cyclical nature and the hope that it will endure and persist, much like a circle that continues unbroken.

The upbeat melody and heartfelt lyrics of “Circle in the Sand” contributed to its popularity and success on the music charts, making it one of Belinda Carlisle’s signature songs.

21. Ocean Avenue – Yellowcard

“Ocean Avenue” by Yellowcard was an unofficial pop-punk anthem in the early 2000s. The song was released as a single on December 15, 2003 and spent time on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It was also a huge radio hit, especially during the summer of 2004. 

The song captures the feeling of a relationship that’s falling apart, and the memories associated with a specific place, Ocean Avenue. The song’s chorus, “If I could find you now, things would get better / We could leave this town and run forever,” conveys a yearning to recapture the happiness of an earlier moment in the relationship and change the way that things turned out.

“Ocean Avenue” remains one of Yellowcard’s most recognizable and enduring songs. It’s the perfect addition to a throwback or pop-punk beach playlist.

22. Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay – Otis Redding

“Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” is a song by American singer-songwriter Otis Redding and guitarist Steve Cropper. It was released posthumously in 1968, shortly after Redding’s tragic death in a plane crash. 

The song is one of Redding’s most well-known and beloved hits, recognized for its unique blend of soul, rhythm and blues, and a touch of folk.

“Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” is often interpreted as a reflection on the challenges and uncertainties of life, as well as a meditation on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of existence. This timeless classic is the perfect addition to a bluesy beach playlist, especially one featuring songs from the 1960s.

23. Escape (The Pina Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes

It’s hard to imagine a more quintessentially beach-worthy song than “Escape (The Pina Colada Song)” by British-American singer-songwriter Rupert Holmes. It was released in 1979 as a single from his album “Partners in Crime.” The song’s catchy melody and humorous lyrics have made it a memorable and iconic hit.

The song tells the story of a man who is feeling dissatisfied in his current relationship.

He responds to a personal ad from a woman who shares his interests and desires, including enjoying piña coladas and getting caught in the rain. When he arrives, he discovers that the woman he was planning to meet is actually his current partner. 

“Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” is often celebrated for its clever storytelling and the unexpected twist in the lyrics. The catchy chorus and upbeat melody contribute to the song’s enduring popularity.

It became a chart-topping hit and remains a classic example of light-hearted storytelling in popular music.

24. Soak Up the Sun – Sheryl Crow

“Soak Up the Sun” is a song by American singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow. It was released as the lead single from her album “C’mon, C’mon” in 2002. The song has a lighthearted and carefree vibe, with lyrics that convey a message of embracing positivity, enjoying life, and not letting worries hold you back.

It’s hard to listen to Soak Up the Sun by Sheryl Crow without smiling. This song is a bright, sunshiney reminder to try to see things a bit more positively. “It’s not having what you want, it’s wanting what you’ve got” is one of the lyrics that best captures the essence of the song. 

This song is a perfect addition to a beach playlist because it is a feel-good anthem that encourages you to let go of your worries and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. 

25. Sea and Sand – The Who

“Sea and Sand” is a song by the British rock band The Who. It appears on their 1973 rock opera album “Quadrophenia.” 

The album tells the story of a young man named Jimmy struggling with identity, rebellion, and the challenges of youth in 1960s London. “Sea and Sand” portrays Jimmy’s love for the beach, a place he uses to escape his troubles.

The opening lines for “Sea and Sand” are, “Here by the sea and sand/Nothing ever goes as planned.” These lines have become famous lyrics from The Who, popular with fans. 

26. At the Beach – Avett Brothers

“At the Beach” is a song by the American folk-rock band The Avett Brothers. It’s a track from their 2004 album “Mignonette.” The song “At the Beach” is a reflective and introspective piece that touches on themes of change and the passage of time.

The song captures a bittersweet feeling, with the beach symbolizing a place of both happiness and sadness.

“At the Beach” evokes a feeling of acceptance and presence in the moment, even when you’re experiencing pangs of regret or longing for what was or might have been.

At the same time, it’s light and catchy enough to nod along to on the sand, perfect for a folksy beach playlist. 

27. Surfin’ USA – The Beach Boys

“Surfin’ USA” is an iconic song about the beach by the American rock band The Beach Boys.

The song is primarily about the surfing culture that was emerging in Southern California during the early 1960s. “Surfin’ USA” has become emblematic of the California Sound, a pop music aesthetic that emerged around the time the song was released. 

Many songs about the beach have a poppy California surf vibe.

The lyrics depict the excitement and joy of surfing and the laid-back lifestyle associated with it.

The song’s lyrics mention various surfing spots along the California coast, including places like Del Mar, Ventura County Line, and Santa Cruz.

The Beach Boys were known for their harmonious vocal arrangements and catchy melodies, and “Surfin’ USA” is no exception, capturing the carefree and optimistic spirit of the era.

“Surfin’ USA” remains one of The Beach Boys’ most iconic and recognizable songs, contributing to their status as one of the pioneering bands of the surf rock genre. It’s a classic addition to any playlist made up of songs about the beach. 

28. Beachin’ – Jake Owen

“Beachin'” is a song by American country music artist Jake Owen. Released in 2014 as the second single from his album “Days of Gold,” the song quickly became a hit on country radio and in various music charts.

The song is a catchy and upbeat country tune that captures the essence of a carefree day at the beach. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of an idyllic sunny day by the ocean, where the protagonist and his love interest are enjoying each other’s company and the leisurely pleasures of the beach. 

Overall, “Beachin'” is a summery anthem that captures the essence of carefree moments and the joy of spending time with someone special on a beach. It celebrates the simple joys of life, summer, and romance – things like white sand, tan lines, and sunshine.

29. Save Your Sundays For Surfin’ – The Fantastic Baggys

“Save Your Sundays for Surfin'” is a song by The Fantastic Baggys, a surf rock band formed in the 1960s. 

The song “Save Your Sundays for Surfin'” captures the carefree and adventurous spirit of the surfing culture that was popular during the 1960s. The lyrics describe spending Sundays riding waves, and soaking up the sun with your friends.

It’s a song that celebrates the Southern California beach lifestyle and the joy of surfing.

The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and surf-rock sound make it a quintessential example of the surf music genre that was popularized during that era. It’s a feel-good song about the beach that captures the feeling of doing something you love and being near the ocean. 

30. Help Me, Rhonda – The Beach Boys 

“Help Me, Rhonda” is a song by The Beach Boys, an American rock band whose music spans the genres of rock, pop, surf, and psychedelia.

Released in 1965, “Help me, Rhonda” first appeared on their first album and later re-recorded and included on the album “Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!)” 

The song is generally upbeat and catchy, perfect for a fun beach playlist. “Help Me, Rhonda” tells the story of a guy seeking advice and comfort from a girl named Rhonda after his romantic relationship has ended. 

Overall, “Help Me, Rhonda” is a classic song from The Beach Boys that captures the feelings of longing and seeking support during a difficult time.

It is set to an infectious melody that became one of the band’s many popular hits.

31. Beautiful Girls – Van Halen

“Beautiful Girls” is a song by the American rock band Van Halen. It appeared on their 1979 album titled “Van Halen II.” The song is a lively and upbeat rock track with a characteristic Van Halen sound, featuring Eddie Van Halen’s guitar work and David Lee Roth’s distinctive vocals.

This song is a simple story about a man sitting on a beach, watching a woman who is smoking and drinking closeby. He thinks she’s beautiful and decides that he wants to be with her, despite having no specific plans for his pursuit.  

“Beautiful Girls” captures the carefree and youthful spirit often associated with rock music from the late 1970s.

It’s one of the many tracks that helped solidify Van Halen’s reputation as a leading force in the rock and roll scene.

32. Walk on the Beach – The Summer Obsession 

“Walk on the Beach” is a song by the American punk rock band The Summer Obsession. The song has a light and upbeat sound that’s typical of pop-punk music. 

Lyrically, the song explores going for a long walk on the beach when you’re going through a challenging chapter of your life.

The song captures the feeling of trying to escape your problems and talking about life with someone you love while walking in the sand. 

33. New Light – John Mayer

“New Light” is a song by American singer-songwriter John Mayer. It was released as a single in 2018 and later included in his eighth studio album, “Sob Rock.” This 80s-inspired track has a catchy and upbeat vibe with a slightly retro feel.

In “New Light,” Mayer sings about being “friendzoned” and pursuing a woman who is either disinterested in him or unaware of his interest. He asks her to give him “one night” so that she can see him in a “new light.”

As a summer beach song, it’s groovy and bluesy – the perfect listen for a chill day in the sand. 

34. Only the Ocean – Jack Johnson

“Only the Ocean” is a song by American singer-songwriter Jack Johnson. It appears on his 2010 album titled “To the Sea.” Jack Johnson is known for his laid-back, acoustic folk-rock style, and his songs often explore themes of nature, love, and introspection.

“Only the Ocean” is a strummy beachside ballad that reflects on themes of impermanence, change, and the passage of time. The song’s gentle melody and Jack Johnson’s signature soothing vocals contribute to its introspective and contemplative atmosphere. 

If you listen to this song at the beach, you’ll feel like it’s only the ocean – in all of its vastness and permanence – and you. 

35. Summer Nights – Olivia Newton-John & John Travolta

“Summer Nights” is a song from the 1978 film adaptation of the musical “Grease,” starring Olivia Newton-John as Sandy and John Travolta as Danny Zuko.

The song is a duet between the characters Sandy and Danny and is performed by Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta.

As one of the most iconic songs from the “Grease” soundtrack, it has become a popular and recognizable classic. It captures the nostalgia and innocence of teenage romance and contributes to the overall fun and energetic energy of the movie.

“Summer Nights” is the perfect addition to an upbeat and playful beach playlist. 

36. Lucinda – Joe Cocker

“Lucinda” is a song by Joe Cocker from his 1975 album “Jamaica Say You Will.” 

Lyrically, “Lucinda” is a bluesy and soulful track that tells the story of a man reflecting on his past and his love for a woman he met on a beach named Lucinda. The lyrics capture a sense of nostalgia, regret, and longing.

37. Beach in Hawaii – Ziggy Marley

“Beach in Hawaii” is a song by Ziggy Marley, Bob Marley’s son. It appeared on Ziggy Marley’s 2006 album titled “Love Is My Religion.” The album as a whole explored themes of love, spirituality, and unity.

Black sand beach in Hawaii.

Lyrically, “Beach in Hawaii” is a poetic song about wishing a loved one were with you. The song uses the imagery of a beach in Hawaii as a metaphor. Its gentle melody and reggae-infused sound contribute to its soothing and somewhat nostalgic vibe.

Some have wondered if “Beach in Hawaii” was written by Ziggy about his father, Bob, who died when Ziggy was 12. 

How To Make A Summer Playlist

In order to make a great summer playlist, start by choosing a theme or a mood.

This will help to ensure the songs are cohesive, because you can judge every song against the theme to ensure that it belongs. Then, add a diverse selection of songs that still fit within the overall theme.

After you have your base of great, thematic songs, add in some classic summer anthems and recent hits.

These will be the high energy additions to the playlist – the types of songs that make people want to sing along.

Once you have about 1-2 hours of music, listen to your playlist all of the way through. You may find a few songs that don’t fit the theme as well as you’d thought, or you might want to add a new song. After you’re satisfied with the flow, share it with friends, family, or on social media platforms. 

Conclusion: Songs About The Beach

Songs that are best for the beach often evoke a sense of relaxation, happiness, and the carefree spirit of being by the ocean.

Sometimes these songs are happy and upbeat, while others are wistful and contemplative. Still others have catchy melodies, nostalgic lyrics, or just capture the feeling of sitting in the sand. 

So, whether you’re actually sitting in the sand or planning your next escape, these are the songs to add to your next beach playlist.