21 Best Songs About the Beach – Sea, Sand & Good Times

As the warmer months approach, people often find themselves yearning for the beach and all the joys that come with it. Whether it’s soaking up the sun, playing beach volleyball, or simply taking a leisurely walk along the shoreline, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of sand between your toes and the sound of crashing waves in the background. And what better way to capture that feeling than through music? There are countless songs about the beach and summertime, but some stand out for their ability to transport listeners to a place of carefree joy and relaxation.

In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and beloved songs about beach sand and good times. From classic hits to more recent releases, these songs all share a common theme of celebrating the simple pleasures of life and embracing the laid-back spirit of the beach. We will dive into the lyrics and melodies that capture the essence of beach culture, and discuss how these songs have become beloved anthems for generations of beachgoers. Whether you’re planning a day trip to the shore or simply looking to bask in the sun from the comfort of your own backyard, these songs are sure to get you in the mood for some fun in the sun.

1. ‘No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems’ by Kenny Chesney

‘No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems’ by Kenny Chesney. This is a fun and upbeat country song that talks about the simple pleasures of life, like relaxing on the beach and forgetting about the stresses of the world. The song’s catchy chorus invites listeners to join in and forget about their worries, with Chesney’s smooth vocals backed by a catchy guitar riff and upbeat drums. The song’s carefree message is perfect for a lazy day at the beach or for those moments when you just want to kick back and let go of your problems. Overall, ‘No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems’ is a feel-good song that reminds us to take a break from the stresses of life and enjoy the simple things in life.

2. ‘Toes’ by Zac Brown Band

‘Toes’ by Zac Brown Band. This is a catchy and upbeat country song that celebrates the joys of being on vacation, with lyrics about sipping on cold drinks and feeling the sand between your toes. The song’s energetic beat and catchy chorus make it the perfect summer anthem for anyone who loves spending time at the beach. Brown’s smooth vocals are accompanied by the band’s skillful instrumentation, which includes banjos, guitars, and fiddles, giving the song a fun and lively feel. Overall, ‘Toes’ is a fun and infectious song that captures the carefree spirit of summertime and encourages listeners to let loose and enjoy the moment.

3. ‘Margaritaville’ by Jimmy Buffett

‘Margaritaville’ by Jimmy Buffett. This classic song is a tribute to the laid-back lifestyle of the tropics, with lyrics about drinking margaritas and watching the sun go down. The song’s catchy melody, simple lyrics, and Buffett’s relaxed vocals have made it a beloved classic for generations of beachgoers and music lovers. The song’s popularity has even spawned a chain of Margaritaville restaurants and merchandise. Overall, ‘Margaritaville’ is a timeless song that captures the essence of a carefree, beachside lifestyle and invites listeners to escape the stresses of everyday life and live in the moment.

4. ‘Some Beach’ by Blake Shelton

Some Beach’ by Blake Shelton. This humorous country song is about a man who is fed up with his mundane life and wishes he could escape to a tropical paradise. The song’s clever lyrics and upbeat melody make it a fun and enjoyable listen, with Shelton’s smooth vocals and twangy guitar adding to the song’s charm. The chorus, with its catchy hook, “Some beach, somewhere, there’s a big umbrella casting shade over an empty chair,” invites listeners to imagine their own perfect getaway. Overall, ‘Some Beach’ is a lighthearted and entertaining song that pokes fun at the daily grind and reminds us to keep our sense of humor even when things get tough.

5. ‘Knee Deep’ by Zac Brown Band featuring Jimmy Buffett

‘Knee Deep’ by Zac Brown Band featuring Jimmy Buffett. This song is a laid-back tribute to the joys of summertime, with lyrics about spending lazy days by the water, drinking cold drinks, and enjoying the company of friends. The song’s mellow beat and catchy melody, combined with the smooth vocals of Zac Brown and Jimmy Buffett, create a relaxing and feel-good vibe that captures the spirit of carefree summer days. The song’s upbeat chorus, with its call-and-response between Brown and Buffett, is particularly infectious and memorable. Overall, ‘Knee Deep’ is a fun and enjoyable song that invites listeners to forget their worries and soak up the sun.

6. ‘Surf Wax America’ by Weezer

‘Surf Wax America’ by Weezer. This high-energy song is a tribute to the surfing culture of Southern California, with lyrics about riding waves, feeling the sun on your skin, and enjoying the freedom of the beach lifestyle. The song’s driving beat, distorted guitar riffs, and lead singer Rivers Cuomo’s distinctive vocals create a sense of excitement and urgency that perfectly captures the thrill of catching a big wave. The song’s catchy chorus, with its call-and-response between the band and the listener, is particularly memorable. Overall, ‘Surf Wax America’ is a fun and energetic song that celebrates the exhilaration of surfing and the carefree spirit of the beach lifestyle.

7. ‘At the Beach’ by Avett Brothers

‘At the Beach’ by Avett Brothers. This song is a reflective and introspective look at the experience of being at the beach, with lyrics that explore the complexities of human emotions and relationships. The song’s stripped-down acoustic instrumentation and the plaintive vocals of Scott and Seth Avett create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that draws the listener in. The song’s poignant lyrics, with their themes of nostalgia, regret, and longing, are both haunting and beautiful. Overall, ‘At the Beach’ is a powerful and moving song that speaks to the human experience and the ways in which our emotions and relationships are shaped by our surroundings.

8. ‘Rockaway Beach’ by The Ramones

‘Rockaway Beach’ by The Ramones. This classic punk rock song is a fast-paced tribute to the legendary beach in Queens, New York, and the wild, carefree lifestyle that it embodies. The song’s driving beat, heavy guitar riffs, and Joey Ramone’s distinctive vocals create a sense of raw energy and rebellion that captures the essence of punk rock. The song’s lyrics, with their references to surfing, beach parties, and teenage rebellion, are both irreverent and iconic. Overall, ‘Rockaway Beach’ is a timeless punk rock classic that celebrates the freedom and energy of youth culture and the excitement of living life on the edge.

9. ‘When the Sun Goes Down’ by Kenny Chesney Ft. 10. Uncle Kracker

When the Sun Goes Down’ by Kenny Chesney ft. Uncle Kracker. This upbeat country song is a celebration of the carefree, adventurous lifestyle of spending time at the beach. The song’s catchy melody, energetic rhythms, and catchy lyrics capture the excitement and fun of a night out at the beach with friends. The addition of Uncle Kracker’s rap interlude adds an extra layer of urban flavor to the song, while Chesney’s smooth vocals and engaging stage presence create a sense of intimacy and connection with the listener. Overall, ‘When the Sun Goes Down’ is a fun, energetic, and infectious song that celebrates the joys of summertime and the pleasures of living life to the fullest.

10. ‘Beyond the Sea’ by Bobby Darin

‘Beyond the Sea’ by Bobby Darin. This classic song is a romantic, jazzy ballad that speaks of the yearning for adventure and the unknown. Darin’s smooth, velvety vocals bring to life the poetic lyrics, evoking images of distant lands and exotic journeys. The song’s timeless melody, with its sweeping orchestration and lush instrumental interludes, perfectly captures the sense of longing and wanderlust at the heart of the song. ‘Beyond the Sea’ is a beautiful and timeless song that speaks to the human desire for exploration and the thrill of the unknown.

11. ‘Under the Boardwalk’ by The Drifters

‘Under the Boardwalk’ by The Drifters. This classic R&B song is a nostalgic tribute to the joys of young love and the pleasures of spending time at the beach. The Drifters’ soulful harmonies and upbeat rhythms perfectly capture the carefree spirit of the summer season. The song’s playful lyrics, with their references to sand, sun, and surf, create a sense of joy and spontaneity that is infectious and irresistible. Overall, ‘Under the Boardwalk’ is a timeless classic that captures the magic of summertime romance and the simple pleasures of life by the shore.

12. ‘Surfin’ Safari’ by The Beach Boys

Surfin’ Safari’ by The Beach Boys. This classic surf rock tune is an upbeat ode to the thrill of catching waves and riding the surf. The song’s lively instrumentation, with its twangy guitar riffs and lively drum beats, perfectly captures the energy and excitement of a day at the beach. The Beach Boys’ signature harmonies are on full display in ‘Surfin’ Safari’, adding a touch of sweetness and joy to the song’s already exuberant sound. Overall, ‘Surfin’ Safari’ is a timeless classic that perfectly captures the fun and excitement of the beach lifestyle, making it a beloved favorite among generations of fans.

13. ‘Catch a Wave’ by The Beach Boys

‘Catch a Wave’ by The Beach Boys. The song is another classic surf rock tune that showcases the band’s signature harmonies and lively instrumentation. With its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics, ‘Catch a Wave’ captures the exhilaration of surfing and encourages listeners to dive into the ocean and ride the waves. The song’s driving rhythm section, highlighted by prominent bass and drums, provides a solid foundation for the upbeat guitar melodies and vocal harmonies that define the Beach Boys’ sound. Overall, ‘Catch a Wave’ is a fun and energetic song that perfectly captures the spirit of summer and the joys of beach life.

14. ‘Kokomo’ by The Beach Boys

‘Kokomo’ by The Beach Boys. Released in 1988, ‘Kokomo’ is a tropical pop song that became one of the band’s biggest hits in the later years of their career. The song’s lyrics describe a fictional island paradise in the Caribbean, with references to various exotic locations like Aruba, Jamaica, and the Florida Keys. The catchy melody, bouncy rhythm, and smooth harmonies make ‘Kokomo’ an easygoing and fun song that evokes feelings of relaxation and escapism. With its upbeat instrumentation, the song perfectly captures the carefree vibe of a summer vacation in a tropical paradise.

15. ‘Beachin” by Jake Owen

‘Beachin” by Jake Owen. Released in 2014, ‘Beachin” is a country song that captures the laid-back vibe of a day at the beach. The lyrics describe the experience of spending time with friends on the sand, soaking up the sun and enjoying the carefree atmosphere. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a perfect anthem for summertime fun, and the mix of electric guitar and steel drums creates a breezy, tropical feel. Overall, ‘Beachin” is a feel-good song that celebrates the joy of spending time with loved ones in a beautiful, relaxing setting.

16. ‘Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini’ by Brian Hyland

“Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini” is a classic novelty song by Brian Hyland. Released in 1960, the song tells the story of a girl who is too shy to wear her new yellow polka dot bikini to the beach. The catchy tune and playful lyrics made it an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s success also popularized the bikini as a mainstream fashion item. “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini” remains a beloved summer anthem and a timeless representation of carefree beach fun.

17. ‘Surf City’ by Jan and Dean

“Surf City” by Jan and Dean is a classic surf-rock anthem from the 1960s. It tells the story of a guy who dreams of finding the perfect surfing spot, where the waves are always just right and the girls are all wearing bikinis. He travels up and down the coast in search of this mythical place, and eventually finds it in “Surf City.” The song features catchy harmonies, twangy guitar riffs, and a driving beat that captures the excitement and energy of surfing culture. “Surf City” became a huge hit and helped popularize the surf-rock genre, which would go on to influence countless musicians and artists in the decades to come.

18. ‘Soak Up the Sun’ by Sheryl Crow

“Soak Up the Sun” is a 2002 pop-rock hit by American singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow. The upbeat and catchy song features a driving rhythm and lyrics that encourage listeners to enjoy life’s simple pleasures and not worry about the little things. Crow’s vocals are backed by guitar riffs, a funky bassline, and percussion, creating a laid-back and carefree vibe. The song became a commercial success and remains one of Crow’s most popular tunes. Its positive message and catchy melody have made it a favorite for summertime playlists and beach trips, encouraging listeners to soak up the sun and let go of their worries.

29. ‘I Want to Go to the Beach’ by Iggy Pop

“I Want to Go to the Beach” is a laid-back and upbeat song by Iggy Pop, released in 1993. The song features simple, catchy lyrics about the desire to escape to the beach for some relaxation and fun. The instrumentation includes a mix of acoustic and electric guitars, along with some percussion elements that give the song a beachy vibe. Iggy’s distinctive voice is also a highlight of the track, as he delivers the lyrics with a sense of longing and playfulness. Overall, “I Want to Go to the Beach” is a fun and catchy ode to the joys of the seaside.

20. ‘Escape (The Piña Colada Song)’ by Rupert Holmes

“Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” is a catchy and upbeat song by Rupert Holmes that tells the story of a man who’s grown tired of his current relationship and decides to search for a new love interest by responding to a personal ad. However, he soon realizes that the woman he meets at the bar who responded to the ad is actually his current partner, and they both laugh at the irony of their situation. The song’s lively melody, featuring a mix of tropical and pop elements, perfectly captures the carefree and playful atmosphere of a sunny beach vacation. With its catchy chorus and sing-along verses, “Escape” has become a beloved classic, and is often played at beach bars and parties around the world. Holmes’ smooth vocals and witty lyrics, coupled with the song’s iconic saxophone solo, make it a timeless favorite that still resonates with listeners today.

21. ‘Only the Ocean’ by Jack Johnson

“Only the Ocean” by Jack Johnson is a soft, acoustic ballad that transports listeners to the peacefulness of the ocean. The song features Johnson’s signature mellow vocals and gentle guitar strumming, creating a serene atmosphere. The lyrics describe the beauty of the ocean and its ability to provide a sense of calm and perspective. The chorus, “Only the ocean knows for sure,” emphasizes the idea that the ocean is a mysterious and powerful force that humans can never fully understand. The song’s simple melody and poetic lyrics make it a perfect listen for a lazy day at the beach or a moment of reflection. Overall, “Only the Ocean” captures the essence of the ocean and its significance in our lives.