Couple in beach chairs watching their kids play by the water on the beach in Gulf Shores

Best Beach Songs

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

A refreshing coastal breeze. Your toes in the sand. The waves wash over your feet. A memorable visit to Alabama’s sugar-white sand beaches includes all these elements, but the ideal beach day also needs the perfect songs of summer to set the tone.

Couple lounging on chairs with cocktails by the pool at The Lodge

Alabama's Beaches aren't just a place where you can listen to beach music. It’s a location deeply intertwined with the history of the genre — epitomized by Alabama Gulf Coast native Jimmy Buffet. This legendary singer-songwriter is synonymous with the laid-back, sun-soaked vibes of beach life. Here, you don’t just hear the tunes; you live them. From Surfaces to Sublime, experience songs that capture the essence of a warm summer breeze and bushwacker in hand.

Whether you’re soaking up the sun by the shore, lounging by the pool, or planning your next beach trip, these 12 songs will get you in the mood for a relaxing day by the water.

Summertime Songs to Save

Add these iconic beach tunes to your playlist for the ultimate beach day!

1. Kokomo – Beach Boys

Kokomo is a quintessential beach tune. With its steel drums, harmonious vocals, and dreamy lyrics, this song is a perfect soundtrack for a sunny day spent beachside.

2. Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison

Brown Eyed Girl is a timeless classic that captures the warmth of summer love and carefree days. Its upbeat rhythm and nostalgic lyrics are ideal for making sweet summer memories of your own.

3. Margaritaville – Jimmy Buffet

This is more than a song — it’s an anthem for beachgoers everywhere. Capturing the essence of a beachside lifestyle with its catchy refrain and laid-back lyrics, it’s a must-have on any Gulf Shores and Orange Beach playlist.

4. Sunday Best – Surfaces

Looking for a modern, upbeat vibe? Sunday Best offers a cheerful melody, which promises to inspire a feel-good mood for any beach day.

5. Riptide – Vance Joy

Riptide brings a unique, indie folk twist to beach music. Its catchy riffs and engaging lyricism make for a playfully nostalgic listening experience (ideal for a day of seaside adventures).

6. Island in the Sun – Weezer

Island in the Sun is a simultaneously mellow and manic track that promises to transport listeners to their own personal island paradises.

7. Escape (Pina Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes

This beachy classic is a fun and whimsical tune that captures the spirit of lazy days spent beachside. Its simple yet catchy chorus and humorous lyrics are perfect for those seeking the best beach songs.

8. Santeria – Sublime

Santeria blends reggae and rock to create a distinctive sound that’s synonymous with coastal life. Its laid-back groove and sun-soaked rhythm make it an essential track for a chill beach day.

9. Soak Up the Sun – Sheryl Crow

Talk about the epitome of a summer anthem. This early 2000s hit serves an upbeat tempo, making it a great addition to any beach playlist.

10. Knee Deep – Zac Brown Band

Featuring Jimmy Buffett, this country-infused beach tune celebrates the joys of carefree days spent shoreside.

11. In the Summertime – Jerry Mungo

With its catchy beat and playful lyrics, In the Summertime is a timeless track that brings a sense of joy and relaxation to any beach day.

12. No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem – Kenny Chesney

With a carefree vibe that makes you want to kick off your sandals and feel the sand between your toes, this song practically begs to be heard while soaking in the sun. So, kick off those shoes, and let the waves of Alabama Beaches wash over you.

Seeking even more songs of summer? Follow us on Spotify and check out our beach day playlist

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