Summer Romance Books That Feel Like a Vacation
Look, I don’t make the rules—summertime and romance novels go hand in hand. Maybe it’s those blistering sunny days, new adventures that the season brings, the romance of travel…or maybe it’s just that life feels good with a romance novel in hand! Whatever the reason, summer always reminds me why I love vacation stories—and not just romance books that hand you a ticket to some dreamy destination and introduce you to a swoon-worthy stranger, but ones that feel like a vacation. They somehow capture that summertime feeling, bottle it up, and deliver it in book form.
Whether you’re packing a beach bag as we speak or simply looking for a hot summer romance read while you sit on your patio, here are some books that will whisk you away with seaside flings, adorable small towns, and beautiful moments that will make you yearn for summer the whole year-round.
What If I Never Get Over You by Paige Toone
The love interests meet while interrailing through Europe, and when they re-meet six years later, they must reconcile with past hurts and who they have grown into as adults. It will make you long to be young and dumb in your young 20s!
Match Made in the Maldives by Theresa Christine
The Maldives is absolute heaven on earth, and what could be better than going there with your brother’s best friend who you’ve low-key had a crush on for years and maybe even kissed one time a few years ago…not that he would remember! It’s a spicy, quick read, and it’s free for newsletter subscribers. ❣️
Every Summer After by Carley Fortune
This entire series from Carley Fortune just oozes nostalgia of childhood summers at the lake. This book is emotional and yearny and I’m 100% here for it.
Thorns & Ivies by Alyssa St. Don
This book has a little sci-fi kind of twist to it where people who turn 25 get a mark indicating whether they have a soulmate or not. Aurelia’s soulmate is, of course, a cocky, insufferable punk band singer. It’s a fun premise and takes you on a journey to places like Miami, Myrtle Beach, Nashville, Boston, NYC, and DC.
Seven Days in June by Tia Williams
This book is a bit heavier (check those trigger warnings), but it really captures the angst of teenage love. Something about this book just feels like humid New York summers and the serendipitous ways our paths can cross with people.
The Summer for Us by Izabela Kamila
A sassy, lovable city girl heads to a small town in Wisconsin, and everyone adores her…except, of course, for the town grump. I love seeing a closed-off, icy man completely melt for the FMC, and the found family trope in this book is *chef’s kiss.*
The Summer of Broken Rules by K.L. Walther
This is a delightful YA romance set in Martha’s Vineyard (and packed with Taylor Swift references). It’s a cute read but still has lots of emotional depth.
A Much Kneaded Union by K.E. Monteith
This book is pretty much every trope I ever want…small town, baker/cafe owners, rivals, and marriage of convenience! There’s also some summertime carnival fun, and by the end, Snowfall Valley is definitely a place you’ll want to visit.
The Layover by Lacie Waldon
It’s just a weeklong layover in Belize with your work nemesis, how bad can it be? Honestly, the setting alone makes it a must-read—Belize is the ultimate beachy destination. Throw in a gorgeous former pilot, and I’m there.
Not Quite Perfect by Rebecca Norinne
Bring on the drama with this one—a one-night stand turns awkward when the main characters realize their parents are getting married. It’s also got some Martha’s Vineyard vibes, which is perfect for a summertime read.
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
As a former travel journalist, I approve! The yearning is so good in this book, and I am so so so excited for this film to come out in early 2026.
Here We Go Again by Alison Cochrun
Road trip, anyone? I love the complications of estranged friends to lovers, and these two set out on a road trip with their mentor from coast to coast. Perfect you want some rom-com material.
Savor It by Tarah DeWitt
This is one of the best small-town romances out there, imho. It perfectly captures the ticking clock of summertime for these two characters, too. Such a good read!
It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
I love this book so much! Piper is such a fun character to follow, and the Pacific Northwest setting is a lovely way to spend a summer.