5 Trending Beach Reads to Soak Up This Summer (2025 Edition)
Sunshine, sand, and a good book—name a better trio. If your idea of a perfect summer day involves flipping pages with the sound of waves in the background, you’re in the right place. This year’s lineup of beach reads is full of charm, wit, spice, and heartfelt moments that’ll make you laugh, swoon, and maybe even tear up a little (in a good way).
Here are 5 trending beach reads you won’t want to miss this summer:
1. Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
Vibe: Cute-meet turned summer fling, emotional depth, small-town magic
Why it’s trending: Abby Jimenez is the queen of giving rom-coms with a whole lot of heart. In this story, two people with “relationship expiration dates” agree to a no-strings summer romance—until real feelings show up at the party.
“It’s sunshine, slow burn, and soulmates wrapped into one unputdownable story.”
Perfect for: Fans of emotional romance that still delivers major warm fuzzies.
2. The Summer Pact by Emily Giffin
Vibe: Lifelong friendships, beachy nostalgia, life changes
Why it’s trending: Emily Giffin returns with a story about four friends who reunite for a summer getaway that brings back old memories, buried secrets, and a second chance at the future they once dreamed of.
“It’s heartfelt, healing, and just messy enough to feel real.”
Perfect for: Readers who love friendship-focused fiction with lots of heart and a dash of drama.
3. This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune
Vibe: Longing, complicated love, coastal escapes
Why it’s trending: This emotional summer romance is all about crossing lines and confronting truths. With picturesque Prince Edward Island as the backdrop, it's full of slow moments and simmering tension.
“If you liked Every Summer After or Meet Me at the Lake, this one’s your next obsession.”
Perfect for: Anyone who loves a moody, romantic read with coastal vibes and a touch of nostalgia.
4. One-Star Romance by Laura Hankin
Vibe: Enemies-to-lovers, publishing industry snark, banter galore
Why it’s trending: When a scathing reviewer and a romance author find themselves unexpectedly face-to-face, sparks fly—literally. This clever, sharp romantic comedy is equal parts spicy and sweet.
“Think: Beach Read meets You’ve Got Mail with a little extra sass.”
Perfect for: Book lovers who want their beach reads full of laughs, tension, and smart writing.
5. The Getaway List by Emma Lord
Vibe: YA/NA coming-of-age, friendship goals, road trip meets beach trip
Why it’s trending: This feel-good novel follows a girl who reconnects with an old friend to complete a list of things they always wanted to do together. Heartwarming, quirky, and deeply relatable.
“It’s like sunshine in book form—with a playlist-worthy amount of joy.”
Perfect for: Younger readers or anyone craving a heartfelt, adventure-filled escape.
Bonus Tip: Pair Your Read With a Vibe 🍹
Romantic drama? Add a chilled glass of rosé.
Cozy banter-filled rom-com? Iced coffee all the way.
Moody, emotional tearjerker? You’ll need sunscreen and tissues.
Final Thoughts:
This summer, give yourself permission to lounge a little longer, turn another page, and get lost in stories that feel like a vacation in themselves. Whether you're poolside, beachside, or reading from the comfort of your balcony, these trending beach reads will be your perfect sunny escape. 🌞📖