19 Best Songs about Vacation to Put You in a Holiday Mood

Songs about vacations are a popular musical genre, often associated with summer and the warm months. They inspire us to pack our bags and explore new destinations. These songs can provide an escape from our daily routines and bring us into a world of relaxation and adventure.

One of the most well-known vacation songs is “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys, which paints an idyllic picture of a tropical paradise. The song takes listeners on a journey to a “little place” off the Florida Keys, where they can enjoy palm trees, sand, and sunshine. Similarly, “Summertime” by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince reminds us of the joys of summer and the adventures that await us during vacation time.

Other popular vacation-themed songs include “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes, “Vacation” by The Go-Go’s, and “Rockaway Beach” by The Ramones. These songs have a catchy beat and encourage us to leave our worries behind and enjoy our time off.

Songs about vacations can also evoke feelings of nostalgia, such as “Holiday” by Madonna, which reminisces on the singer’s fond memories of her childhood summers. “Vacation” by Connie Francis takes a similar approach, reminiscing on the nostalgia of past vacations and how they bring back fond memories.

Whether we are planning a vacation or just dreaming of a getaway, songs about vacations can inspire us and provide us with a much-needed escape from our daily routines. They transport us to new places and create a sense of excitement, adventure, and relaxation that we all need from time to time.

1. Vacation – Dirty Heads

“Vacation” is a song by the American band Dirty Heads, released in 2017. The upbeat track is an ode to the simple pleasures of life, encouraging listeners to take a break from the stresses of everyday life and enjoy a carefree vacation. The song’s catchy chorus and laid-back vibe make it a perfect summer anthem, with its blend of reggae, hip-hop, and rock influences. The lyrics speak of lazy days spent by the beach, drinking beer and enjoying the sun. “Vacation” is a feel-good song that transports listeners to a world of relaxation, reminding them to slow down and savor life’s little joys.

2. Holiday – Vampire Weekend

“Holiday” is an upbeat and catchy song by the American indie rock band Vampire Weekend. Released in 2010 as a single from their second album “Contra,” the song features jangly guitars, energetic drums, and frontman Ezra Koenig’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe the thrill of escaping from the routine of daily life and experiencing new adventures. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Holiday, oh, a holiday,” is irresistibly catchy and sure to get stuck in your head. Overall, “Holiday” is a fun and lighthearted track that embodies the carefree spirit of a much-needed vacation.

3. I’m on Vacation – Rhett & Link

“I’m on Vacation” is a comedic song by the American YouTubers Rhett & Link, released in 2014. The track is a parody of typical vacation songs, with exaggerated lyrics about the joys of taking a break from work and responsibility. The music video features the duo dressed in Hawaiian shirts, dancing and singing in various vacation spots around the world. The song’s catchy chorus and humorous lyrics make it a fun and lighthearted summer anthem. “I’m on Vacation” is a reminder to let loose and have fun on your time off, and not take life too seriously.

4. Some Beach – Blake Shelton

“Some Beach” is a humorous country song by American singer Blake Shelton. Released in 2004, the song features a lively beat, twangy guitars, and Shelton’s deep, drawling vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a stressed-out protagonist who is seeking a reprieve from his troubles by imagining himself on a deserted beach somewhere. The catchy chorus, with its playful wordplay and sing-along quality, is a crowd-pleaser at live shows. With its upbeat melody and clever lyrics, “Some Beach” is a fun and light-hearted addition to Shelton’s discography, and a great example of his signature style.

5. Island in the Sun – Weezer

“Island in the Sun” is a song by the American rock band Weezer, released in 2001. The song’s bright and breezy melody, coupled with its lyrics about escape and relaxation, have made it a summer anthem. The song is an ode to getting away from it all, with references to sun, sand, and ocean waves. The chorus, with its “hip, hip” refrain, is particularly catchy and uplifting. “Island in the Sun” has become one of Weezer’s most popular songs, and a staple of summertime playlists. Its themes of freedom and escapism resonate with listeners of all ages, making it a timeless classic.

6. Holiday – Madonna

“Holiday” is an iconic pop song by the Queen of Pop herself, Madonna. Released in 1983 as the third single from her self-titled debut album, the song is a catchy and upbeat celebration of the joy of taking time off to enjoy life. The song features a bouncy rhythm, with infectious synth and guitar riffs that make it impossible to resist dancing along. Madonna’s confident and playful vocals add to the overall fun and carefree vibe of the track. “Holiday” quickly became a hit, cementing Madonna’s status as a pop superstar and an enduring presence in the music world.

7. No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems – Kenny Chesney

“No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” is a song by American country singer Kenny Chesney, released in 2003. The track is an ode to the simple life, with lyrics about the joys of spending time by the ocean, and the freedom of letting go of material possessions. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo, coupled with Chesney’s smooth vocals, make it a perfect summer anthem. “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” reminds listeners to slow down and appreciate the little things in life, and to take time to relax and enjoy the moment. The song’s carefree spirit and positive message have made it a favorite of Chesney’s fans for years.

8. Lost Weekend – Lloyd Cole and the Commotions

“Lost Weekend” is a song by the British band Lloyd Cole and the Commotions, released in 1985. The track is a nostalgic look back at a wild weekend, with lyrics that capture the excitement and recklessness of youth. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo, combined with Cole’s distinctive vocals, make it a memorable pop classic. “Lost Weekend” speaks to the universal experience of letting loose and having fun, and the bittersweet feeling of coming back to reality after a wild adventure. The song’s themes of nostalgia and fleeting youth have made it a favorite of fans for decades.

9. Born to Be Wild – Steppenwolf

“Born to Be Wild” is a classic rock song by Canadian-American band Steppenwolf, released in 1968. With its pounding drums, roaring guitar riffs and lead singer John Kay’s powerful vocals, the song is an anthem for the free-spirited rebels of the counterculture movement. The lyrics speak of a desire for adventure and a rejection of conformity, with the iconic line “heavy metal thunder” becoming a symbol of the wild and unbridled energy that characterizes the song. “Born to Be Wild” has become a timeless rock classic, a staple of movie soundtracks and a rallying cry for generations of nonconformists.

10. Vacation – The Go-Go’s

“Vacation” is a song by the American all-female band The Go-Go’s, released in 1982. The track is a fun and upbeat pop song, with lyrics that capture the excitement of going on vacation and escaping everyday life. The song’s catchy melody, lively guitar riffs, and infectious chorus have made it a beloved summer anthem. “Vacation” encourages listeners to let go of their worries and enjoy life, even if it’s just for a little while. The song’s infectious energy and positive message have made it a staple of pop culture, and a favorite of generations of music lovers.

11. On the Road Again – Willie Nelson

“On the Road Again” is a song by the American musician Willie Nelson, released in 1980. The track is a classic country anthem, with lyrics that speak to the life of a touring musician. The song’s catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and Nelson’s distinctive vocals have made it an enduring favorite. “On the Road Again” captures the sense of freedom and adventure that comes with life on the road, and the joy of making music for a living. The song’s themes of wanderlust and the pursuit of one’s dreams have made it an inspiration to countless musicians and fans over the years.

12. Soak Up the Sun – Sheryl Crow

“Soak Up the Sun” is a breezy, feel-good song by American singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow, released in 2002 as the lead single from her album “C’mon C’mon”. The song features upbeat acoustic guitar riffs, handclaps and a catchy chorus, encouraging listeners to let go of their worries and enjoy the simple pleasures in life. The lyrics convey a sense of optimism and the importance of living in the moment, with Crow’s signature raspy vocals adding a touch of soulfulness to the track. “Soak Up the Sun” is a perfect summer anthem, and a reminder to take time to appreciate the good things in life.

13. Pontoon – Little Big Town

“Pontoon” is a song by the American country music group Little Big Town, released in 2012. The track is an upbeat and playful tribute to spending lazy summer days on a pontoon boat. The song’s catchy melody, singalong chorus, and carefree lyrics have made it a favorite of country music fans. “Pontoon” captures the joy of being out on the water with friends and family, enjoying the sunshine and relaxation that comes with a day on the lake. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy have made it a staple of summer playlists, and a reminder to savor the simple pleasures of life.

14. Kokomo – The Beach Boys

“Kokomo” is a song by the American rock band The Beach Boys, released in 1988. The track is a nostalgic ode to the laid-back island lifestyle of the Florida Keys, with lyrics that celebrate the beauty and simplicity of life by the sea. The song’s catchy melody, infectious chorus, and upbeat tempo have made it an enduring favorite. “Kokomo” speaks to the universal desire for escape and relaxation, and the appeal of a carefree existence in a tropical paradise. The song’s themes of adventure and romance have made it a beloved classic, and a staple of beach-themed playlists.

15. Toes – Zac Brown Band

“Toes” is a laid-back and infectious country song by American band Zac Brown Band, released in 2009 as the second single from their album “The Foundation”. The song features an upbeat rhythm, twangy guitars, and frontman Zac Brown’s smooth vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a carefree protagonist who is enjoying the simple pleasures of life, with the chorus encouraging listeners to “lay back and unwind”. The catchy melody and relatable lyrics make “Toes” a crowd-pleaser, while the band’s signature harmonies and musicianship showcase their versatility and skill. Overall, “Toes” is a fun and uplifting song that embodies the spirit of summer and good times.

16. Holiday Road – Lindsey Buckingham

“Holiday Road” is a song by the American musician Lindsey Buckingham, released in 1983. The track is perhaps best known as the theme song to the comedy film “National Lampoon’s Vacation.” The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and playful lyrics capture the excitement of a road trip, with references to iconic American destinations like Chicago and Los Angeles. Buckingham’s smooth vocals and guitar work make the song a perfect summer anthem, evoking the sense of freedom and adventure that comes with hitting the open road. “Holiday Road” has become a beloved classic, synonymous with summer fun and the joys of travel.

17. School’s Out – Alice Cooper

“School’s Out” is a song by American rock musician Alice Cooper, released in 1972. The track is a raucous celebration of the end of the school year, with lyrics that capture the rebellious spirit of youth. The song’s catchy melody, energetic guitar riffs, and Cooper’s distinctive vocals have made it a classic rock anthem. “School’s Out” speaks to the universal experience of young people everywhere, yearning for the freedom and excitement of summer vacation. The song’s themes of rebellion and youthful energy have made it a favorite of rock fans for generations, and a symbol of the enduring spirit of youth culture.

18. I’ve Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash

“I’ve Been Everywhere” is a song by the American country music legend Johnny Cash, originally recorded in 1962. The track is a musical travelogue, with lyrics that list off hundreds of cities and towns across the United States and Canada. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Cash’s distinctive vocals make it an enduring classic. “I’ve Been Everywhere” speaks to the sense of wanderlust that is central to American culture, and the joy of exploring new places and experiences. The song’s themes of adventure and exploration have made it a favorite of music lovers and road trippers alike.

19. Margaritaville – Jimmy Buffett

“Margaritaville” is a beloved classic by American singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, released in 1977 as a single from his album “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes”. The song’s catchy melody and playful lyrics, which describe a relaxed and carefree lifestyle in the titular tropical paradise, have made it a staple of beach parties and vacation playlists. The upbeat tempo, steel drum melodies, and Buffett’s smooth vocals all add to the song’s irresistible charm, while its laid-back message of enjoying life and letting go of stress has resonated with generations of fans. “Margaritaville” is a timeless anthem that has become a cultural touchstone and a symbol of the good life.