Cabana’s Summer Beach Reads

Books we’re packing in our beach bags (right next to the SPF and rosé).

Whether you’re stretched out on a striped lounger or curled up under an umbrella, nothing completes a beach day quite like the perfect book. From breezy romances to twisty thrillers, our summer reading list is all about escapism, entertainment, and a little bit of glam.

Grab your sunnies, slip on your favorite cover-up, and toss one (or a few) of these books into your beach bag.

1. The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han

A young adult classic we return to again and again. First love, beach houses, and a whole lot of feelings. If you're looking for nostalgic summer energy and binge-worthy beach drama, this one delivers.

2. The Villa by Rachel Hawkins

A dual-timeline mystery set in a picturesque Italian villa with a scandalous past. There's murder, secrets, and a touch of 1970s rock 'n roll. It’s dramatic in the best way.

3. Happy Place by Emily Henry

A fake breakup, a dreamy Maine beach house, and one last chance at love? Say no more. This one is romantic, witty, and will have you laughing one minute and tearing up the next.

4. Beach Read by Emily Henry

Yes, another Emily Henry because we’re obsessed. A clever rom-com about two writers, a beach town, and a summer of creative (and emotional) unraveling.

5. People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry

Okay, last one. But this opposites-attract, friends-to-lovers gem is practically written for vacation reading. Sun-drenched settings and sizzling chemistry? Yes, please.

6. The Guest by Emma Cline

Edgy, eerie, and a little mysterious. This is the kind of book you can’t stop reading and can’t quite forget after you do. It’s moody, modern, and filled with tension that simmers just beneath the surface.

7. The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand

No summer reading list is complete without an Elin moment. This one’s set in Nantucket and brings together a group of women for a luxurious (and emotional) weekend escape. It’s the literary version of a cabana cocktail—refreshing with a little kick.

8. It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey

A spoiled LA socialite is sent to a sleepy Pacific Northwest fishing town where she butts heads with a rugged sea captain who has zero time for drama. It’s Schitt’s Creek meets steamy summer romance, and we are absolutely hooked.

Bonus: A Classic Re-Read — The Great Gatsby

Because there’s something so timeless about jazz-age drama and lavish summer parties. Revisit the green light, the gold dresses, and the delicious chaos of West Egg.

So there you have it, our official Cabana Summer Beach Reads. From flirty fiction to haunting thrillers, there’s a story here for every kind of summer mood.

Tag us in your book stack or beach read setup! We love seeing what our Cabana girls are diving into.