As the final weeks approach for summer 2023, there’s still time to hit the beaches for sand and surf. But whether you’re staying home to avoid the crowds because of Covid and Monkey Pox, or just relaxing after a day of fun in the sun, it’s always good to add a few viewings from the top 10 best summer beach movies of all time.
Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson star in “Moana”
My rules for this list are fairly simple — I wanted movies that are set at and around beaches, with plenty of beach-centric activity, and that take place during summer or generally summer-like conditions, so they feel like a movie you can watch during summer time even if they weren’t technically made or released during summer.
I wanted films that provide a variety of experiences, from different eras and perspectives, and which all entertain and remind us of why the beach is so popular and can even provide transcendent experiences. And I wanted to be sure it includes movies for all different tastes and ages, from drama to action, from horror to musical, from adult fare to all-ages entertainment.
I know I left off a few titles that are likely to be popular with some audiences, but hopefully I included others pictures those viewers haven’t seen yet but will enjoy.
So here they are, dear readers, in no particular order (except the first one is definitely the best) — my picks for the best beach movies to watch as we pass the final weeks of another summer!
And here are five honorable mentions that feel in the general spirit of the list, but not quite “beach” enough to qualify as true “summer beach movies” for my list…
So there you have it, dear readers, my picks for the top 10 best movies to watch for your summer beach entertainment.
I hope you find a few to watch before we reach the end of summer this year, and that you are safe and healthy if you choose to go visit any actual beaches — remember to mask up and socially distance, not just for your own protection but also the protection of others who might be at higher risk.
