Essential Summer Reads: 15 Must-Have Books for Your Beach Bag

Reading a book on the beach with summer essentials in the background - Best Beach Reads for Summer 2025
There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a great book while soaking up the summer sun. Whether you're lounging poolside, curled up in a hammockwhile camping or sneaking in a few pages during nap time… 

This fun curated list of essential summer reads has something for everyone. From juicy romances to thrilling mysteries and laugh-out-loud rom-coms, you’ll find the perfect page-turner for your summer escape.  Looking for even more relaxing summer fun?  Why not check out our 10 Small Town Summer Movie List!

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Light Beach Reads

These are the breezy, bingeable books that make you forget to reapply sunscreen.

Thrillers & Mysteries

Add a little suspense to your sunbathing sesh..

Rom-Coms & Feel-Goods

Heartwarming and hilarious, these reads are like sunshine in book form.

  • The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren
    Enemies forced to fake a honeymoon in paradise? Yes, please.

  • Funny You Should Ask by Elissa Sussman
    A second-chance romance told through flashbacks and interviews.

Non-Fiction for Inspiration

For the moments you want to feel motivated while sipping iced coffee or lemonade..

  • Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
    A beautiful guide to living a creative life.

  • Atomic Habits by James Clear
    Practical, powerful tools to create lasting positive change.

YA & Coming-of-Age Picks

Young love, big decisions, and unforgettable summers.

Cozy Bookish Vibes

Books about books and the people who love them.

  • The Bookish Life of Nina Hill by Abbi Waxman
    Introverts unite! A charming story about embracing life.

  • The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams
    A heartwarming tale of an unlikely friendship and the books that bring people together.

    Did your favorite summer read make the list? Thanks so much for your support of Wifetime of Happiness while keeping your reading list fresh and fun!

    📚 Happy reading and happy summer! ðŸŒž