50 Best Summer Movies to Bring the Sunshine Indoors

Summer movies should feel like a dip in the ocean or a lazy day by the pool, bursting with beaches, vacations, or that warm, carefree vibe. They’re about sunlit adventures, summer romances, or coastal escapes that scream the season.

These films, from comedies to dramas, capture summer’s essence with settings like beaches, resorts, or road trips. Here are my top 50 summer-themed movies, ranked from 50 to 1, each drenched in the season’s heat and heart.

‘Beach Blanket Bingo’ (1965)

This 60s beach comedy follows Frankie (Frankie Avalon) and Dee Dee (Annette Funicello) in a surf-and-song romp. The sunny California coast and goofy antics scream summer fun.

The musical numbers and beach party vibe keep it light. It’s a nostalgic pick for carefree summer nights.

‘The Shallows’ (2016)

Blake Lively’s surfer Nancy battles a shark off a remote beach. The tropical ocean and tense survival story make it a gripping summer thriller.

Lively’s fierce performance and the sunlit waves keep you hooked. It’s a perfect pick for summer’s wilder side.

‘The Beach’ (2000)

Leonardo DiCaprio’s Richard seeks paradise on a secret Thai island. The lush beaches and summer adventure vibe capture the season’s allure.

The visuals and youthful quest for freedom resonate. It’s a dreamy escape for summer wanderlust.

‘Lords of Dogtown’ (2005)

This drama follows young surfers in 1970s Venice Beach who revolutionize skateboarding. The gritty coastal vibe and summer freedom shine through.

Heath Ledger’s mentor role adds heart. It’s a raw pick for summer’s rebellious spirit.

‘Blue Crush’ (2002)

Kate Bosworth plays a surfer chasing a big competition in Hawaii. The sun-drenched waves and girl-power energy make it pure summer.

The surf scenes and laid-back vibe keep it fresh. It’s a go-to for beach lovers and summer thrills.

‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ (2008)

Jason Segel’s Peter recovers from a breakup at a Hawaiian resort, sparking a summer romance. The tropical setting and heartfelt laughs scream vacation.

The ensemble, including Mila Kunis, shines. It’s a funny, romantic pick for summer getaways.

‘The Way Way Back’ (2013)

This coming-of-age tale follows shy Duncan at a summer beach house. The sunny Cape Cod setting and quirky water park job capture the season’s charm.

Sam Rockwell’s mentorship adds warmth. It’s a heartfelt pick for summer’s growing pains.

‘Aquamarine’ (2006)

Two teens befriend a mermaid (Sara Paxton) in their beach town. The sunny Florida vibe and playful story make it a light summer fantasy.

The friendship and beachside antics keep it fun. It’s a breezy pick for summer family viewing.

‘Soul Surfer’ (2011)

This true story follows Bethany Hamilton (AnnaSophia Robb) returning to surfing after a shark attack. The Hawaiian beaches and inspiring tale scream summer resilience.

The surf scenes and uplifting spirit shine. It’s a motivating pick for summer’s adventurous side.

‘Summer of ’42’ (1971)

A teen’s summer romance on Nantucket during WWII is tender and nostalgic. The beachy setting and coming-of-age story capture summer’s fleeting magic.

The soft visuals and emotional depth hit hard. It’s a poignant pick for summer’s romantic heart.

‘The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants’ (2005)

Four friends share magical jeans during a summer apart, from Greece to Mexico. The sunny settings and emotional bonds radiate summer warmth.

The ensemble, including Blake Lively, delivers heart. It’s a touching choice for summer’s reflective moments.

‘Adventureland’ (2009)

Jesse Eisenberg’s James works at a rundown amusement park during a summer job. The warm nights and young romance capture summer’s bittersweet vibe.

Kristen Stewart’s chemistry with Eisenberg adds depth. It’s a gem for summer’s mix of fun and longing.

‘The Endless Summer’ (1966)

This documentary tracks two surfers chasing perfect waves worldwide. The sun-soaked beaches and laid-back adventure scream summer’s essence.

The vibrant cinematography still inspires. It’s a pure celebration of summer’s free spirit.

‘Point Break’ (1991)

Keanu Reeves’ FBI agent infiltrates a surfer gang led by Patrick Swayze. The California beaches and high-stakes chases make it a summer thrill ride.

The surfing and bromance keep it electric. It’s a quintessential pick for summer action fans.

‘50 First Dates’ (2004)

Adam Sandler’s Henry falls for Drew Barrymore’s Lucy in Hawaii, despite her memory loss. The tropical beaches and sweet romance ooze summer vibes.

The humor and heartfelt moments shine. It’s a perfect pick for summer’s romantic side.

‘Y Tu Mamá También’ (2001)

Two teens and a woman take a Mexican road trip in this sultry drama. The sunlit beaches and emotional journey capture summer’s wild freedom.

The raw performances and vibrant settings hit hard. It’s a bold pick for summer’s adventurous heart.

‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’ (1999)

Matt Damon’s Tom Ripley schemes in 1950s Italy’s sunny coast. The luxurious beaches and tense drama make it a summer standout.

The stellar cast and lush visuals keep it gripping. It’s a stylish choice for summer’s darker side.

‘Mamma Mia!’ (2008)

Amanda Seyfried’s Sophie uncovers her dad’s identity on a Greek island with ABBA tunes. The vibrant beaches and joyful songs scream summer.

Meryl Streep’s charm makes it irresistible. It’s a feel-good pick for warm summer nights.

‘Moonlight’ (2016)

This drama follows Chiron’s life in Miami’s humid summers, exploring identity and love. The vibrant beaches and emotional depth make it a summer gem.

Barry Jenkins’ direction and raw performances resonate. It’s a powerful pick for summer’s reflective side.

‘Call Me by Your Name’ (2017)

Timothée Chalamet’s Elio falls for Oliver in 1980s Italy’s sunlit villas. The summer romance and lush settings capture the season’s fleeting magic.

The chemistry and dreamy visuals make it unforgettable. It’s a romantic choice for summer’s warm nights.

‘The Notebook’ (2004)

Ryan Gosling’s Noah and Rachel McAdams’ Allie share a summer romance in 1940s South Carolina. The steamy Southern setting and emotional stakes are iconic.

The rain-soaked kiss screams summer passion. It’s a go-to for romantic summer evenings.

‘Dirty Dancing’ (1987)

Jennifer Grey’s Baby and Patrick Swayze’s Johnny spark at a 1960s summer resort. The iconic dances and music capture summer’s heat and heart.

The ‘Nobody puts Baby in a corner’ line still thrills. It’s a classic pick for summer romance.

‘Lilo & Stitch’ (2002)

A Hawaiian girl, Lilo, befriends chaotic alien Stitch in this animated tale. The tropical beaches and family themes radiate summer fun.

The vibrant animation and heartfelt story shine. It’s a perfect all-ages pick for summer nights.

‘The Sandlot’ (1993)

Kids play baseball in 1962, chasing summer adventures and facing a legendary dog. The dusty fields and youthful antics scream nostalgia.

The friendship and humor keep it timeless. It’s a warm pick for summer’s carefree days.

‘Jaws’ (1975)

Spielberg’s shark thriller, set in a beach town during summer, redefined suspense. Roy Scheider’s Sheriff Brody facing a great white is pure tension.

The ocean setting and iconic score make it peak summer viewing. Its gripping thrills still hook audiences.

‘Blue Hawaii’ (1961)

Elvis Presley’s Chad returns to Hawaii, sparking romance and beachside musical numbers. The tropical vibe and sunny charm capture summer’s essence.

Elvis’ charisma and catchy songs keep it fun. It’s a lighthearted pick for summer escapism.

‘Summer Rental’ (1985)

John Candy’s family faces vacation chaos at a beach house. The sunny Florida setting and goofy mishaps scream summer comedy.

Candy’s warmth carries the laughs. It’s a breezy choice for summer family viewing.

‘Palm Springs’ (2020)

Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti are stuck in a time loop at a desert wedding. The poolside vibes and quirky romance fit summer perfectly.

The fresh humor and chemistry shine. It’s a modern pick for summer’s playful side.

‘Captain Ron’ (1992)

Kurt Russell’s quirky sailor helps a family navigate a Caribbean yacht trip. The sea adventure and comedic chaos make it a summer gem.

Russell’s oddball charm keeps it fun. It’s a light pick for summer’s adventurous spirit.

‘What About Bob?’ (1991)

Bill Murray’s neurotic Bob follows his therapist (Richard Dreyfuss) on vacation. The lake house setting and hilarious antics scream summer getaway.

Murray’s comedic genius shines. It’s a funny choice for summer’s quirky side.

‘The Parent Trap’ (1998)

Lindsay Lohan’s twin sisters plot to reunite their parents at summer camp. The sunny settings and mischievous schemes capture summer fun.

Lohan’s dual role and heartwarming story charm. It’s a family-friendly pick for summer nights.

‘Wet Hot American Summer’ (2001)

This spoof of 80s summer camps, with Paul Rudd and Amy Poehler, is absurdly funny. The lake antics and retro vibe nail summer’s carefree spirit.

The wild humor and ensemble cast keep it fresh. It’s a cult pick for summer laughs.

‘Dazed and Confused’ (1993)

Richard Linklater’s look at the last day of school in 1976 follows teens partying. The Texas sun and classic rock scream summer freedom.

Young Matthew McConaughey and the laid-back vibe shine. It’s a nostalgic pick for summer’s wild nights.

‘National Lampoon’s Vacation’ (1983)

Chevy Chase’s Clark Griswold leads a chaotic family road trip. The summer vacation mishaps and slapstick humor hit every funny bone.

The Wally World quest keeps it iconic. It’s a classic pick for summer comedy.

‘The Great Outdoors’ (1988)

John Candy and Dan Aykroyd star in a family vacation gone wrong at a lake cabin. The summer setting and goofy chaos capture the season’s messiness.

Candy’s warm humor carries it. It’s a fun pick for summer family nights.

‘Little Miss Sunshine’ (2006)

A quirky family road-trips to a beauty pageant in this indie gem. The sunny drive and emotional bonds scream summer adventure.

The ensemble, including Toni Collette, shines. It’s a heartfelt pick for summer’s reflective side.

‘On Golden Pond’ (1981)

Henry Fonda and Katharine Hepburn play a couple at their summer lake house. The serene setting and family drama capture summer’s quiet moments.

The emotional performances hit deep. It’s a poignant choice for summer’s introspective side.

‘A Summer Place’ (1959)

This romance follows a rekindled love affair at a Maine resort. The beachy setting and dramatic passion make it a summer classic.

The iconic theme song and emotional stakes endure. It’s a romantic pick for summer evenings.

‘Midsommar’ (2019)

Ari Aster’s horror follows a group at a Swedish summer festival that turns sinister. The bright daylight and eerie vibes twist summer’s cheer.

Florence Pugh’s raw performance chills. It’s a bold pick for summer’s darker side.

‘The Kings of Summer’ (2013)

Three teens build a house in the woods for a summer escape. The forest setting and coming-of-age story capture summer’s freedom.

The quirky humor and youthful spirit shine. It’s a fresh pick for summer’s adventurous heart.

‘The Last Song’ (2010)

Miley Cyrus’ Ronnie finds love with Liam Hemsworth’s Will at a beach town. The coastal summer romance and family drama hit all the right notes.

The emotional pull and sunny setting resonate. It’s a sweet pick for summer’s romantic side.

‘Now and Then’ (1995)

Four friends reflect on their 1970 summer as teens. The nostalgic bike rides and small-town vibe capture summer’s youthful magic.

The ensemble, including Christina Ricci, shines. It’s a warm pick for summer memories.

‘My Girl’ (1991)

Macaulay Culkin and Anna Chlumsky star in this coming-of-age tale set in a 1970s summer. The small-town warmth and young love scream nostalgia.

The emotional moments still tug heartstrings. It’s a heartfelt pick for summer’s tender side.

‘Flipped’ (2010)

This 1960s-set romance follows two teens navigating a summer crush. The sunny suburban vibe and sweet story capture young love’s warmth.

The dual perspectives and charming leads shine. It’s a light pick for summer’s romantic heart.

‘Stand by Me’ (1986)

Four boys trek to find a body in this Stephen King adaptation. The 1950s summer setting and friendship story scream youthful adventure.

Wil Wheaton and River Phoenix deliver heart. It’s a timeless pick for summer’s nostalgic side.

‘The Goonies’ (1985)

Kids hunt for pirate treasure in this Spielberg-produced adventure. The coastal Oregon setting and thrilling quest capture summer’s excitement.

The gang’s chemistry and iconic moments endure. It’s a perfect pick for summer’s adventurous spirit.

‘Summer of Sam’ (1999)

Spike Lee’s drama, set during the 1977 New York heatwave, explores a neighborhood under a killer’s shadow. The sweaty summer vibe and tense story grip you.

The raw performances and urban heat hit hard. It’s a gritty pick for summer’s darker side.

‘Crazy Rich Asians’ (2018)

Rachel (Constance Wu) visits Singapore for a summer wedding, facing a dazzling world. The tropical glamour and romantic drama scream summer opulence.

The vibrant cast and lush settings shine. It’s a romantic pick for summer’s lavish side.

‘Before Sunrise’ (1995)

Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy’s strangers meet on a summer night in Vienna, sparking romance. The warm European vibe and intimate talks capture summer’s magic.

Their chemistry and soulful dialogue resonate. It’s a dreamy pick for summer’s romantic heart.

‘Luca’ (2021)

This Pixar tale follows two sea monster boys exploring an Italian coastal town. The vibrant Riviera and summer friendship scream seasonal joy.

The colorful animation and heartfelt story shine. It’s a perfect all-ages pick for summer’s sunny side.

Which summer-themed movie is your favorite, or did I miss a beachy gem? Drop your picks in the comments!