Best Books for a Day on the Beach
Summertime on Seabrook Island, SC is one of our absolute favorite seasons. You can’t beat the sound of waves crashing while soaking up some Carolina sunshine on our private beaches.
In honor of National Book Lovers Day today, we thought it would only be fitting to celebrate the last few weeks of summer by talking about one beach day essential in particular (books, of course). From the moment you open the first page, an iconic romance novel or an exciting thriller paired with your favorite beach chair can add a whole new level of relaxation to your oceanside experience.
Our list of handpicked reads below has something for just about every bookworm. Whether you enjoy classic beach authors or something fresh-off-the-press, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.
Happy reading!
Seabrook Island Beach Essentials: Best Summer Reads
The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks
Seabrook Island, SC and our surrounding coastal areas continue to be the source of inspiration for many well-known authors’ next romantic tales. Among the most well-known romance novels set in Seabrook is none other than Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook. Allie and Noah illustrate a classic Romeo and Juliet love story — the family disapproves of their relationship and they fight for love anyway. But when Noah gets sent off to serve in World War II, will their spark survive?
Have you seen the film based on The Notebook? You might see some familiar spots all around Charleston! Some believe it was filmed on our private island… find out more here.
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
Named the Most Anticipated Book of 2021 by Newsweek, this book dances around the story of two best friends, Alex and Poppy, who have vacationed together every year for a decade until catastrophe falls on their friendship and they refuse to speak to one another.
Fast forward a few years, Poppy has everything she’s ever wanted but knows that she hasn’t been truly happy since her final trip with Alex. The question is: when Poppy convinces Alex to go on one final vacation with her, can she finally fix everything?
Beach House by Mary Alice Monroe
After leaving her Southern roots far behind, Caretta Rutledge receives an unusual request that pulls her back to the scenic Lowcountry where she spent her childhood summers. She picks up right where she left off, enjoying the family beach house she once knew so well, in no time.
After reconnecting with her love of the Lowcountry, she is reminded of the value of reconnecting with long-lost acquaintances, sacrifice in true love, and the necessity of placing family before mistakes of the past.
Beach Music by Pat Conroy
As a Southerner living abroad, Jack McCall is desperate to find peace within himself after tragedy strikes. In an effort to begin healing his aching heart, Jack throws himself into the past, digging up his family history along the way.
While launching a search for answers between numerous continents, Jack’s endeavor teaches him about his family roots, secrets, and the beauty in pain that plagues his life.
Beach Read by Emily Henry
From the New York Times Bestselling Author of People We Meet on Vacation, Emily Henry gives us another satisfying summer read! This novel depicts two drastically different writers; Augustus Everett and January Andrews. Augustus loves to write literary fiction, and January writes whirlwind romance novels.
After finding themselves in creative ruts, they strike up a deal — Augustus will spend the summer writing a blissfully romantic novel, while January will create the next American classic novel. Seeking inspiration from each other becomes a necessity… and they grow closer than ever.
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Reading on the beach is one of the most enjoyable pastimes—especially when you’re surrounded by Seabrook Island’s unparalleled natural splendor! As new pieces of literature grace our bookshelves, we’re here to help you find the perfect book for your summertime bliss. Make sure to review our reading list from last year so that you don’t miss a page! We also encourage readers to get involved with our local social groups, including the Book Club.
Find Your Next Beach Read Near Seabrook Island, SC
Looking for a nearby bookstore or library to find your next beach read? We’ve compiled a list of a few local spots that are sure to offer something for everyone.
Indigo Books
Just minutes away from Seabrook Island’s front gate, Indigo Books is situated in the centrally-located Freshfields Village shopping center. Visit this local bookseller between 9 am to 6 pm at 472 Freshfields Village Dr., Johns Island, SC.
Buxton Books
Located at 160 King St., this bookstore is just under an hour from the Island, and the perfect stop on your day trip to explore downtown Charleston. Grab a good book, stroll through the Historic Charleston City Market, and discover all that the city has to offer.
Charleston County Public Library
Also located downtown Charleston at 68 Calhoun St., the main branch of the Charleston County Public Library has a wide variety of novels to choose from. Visit this public library today to borrow your favorite beach read for free.
Reading rule #1: enjoy the love of local booksellers and the Island backdrop!
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Seabrook Island’s private, oceanfront community offers Seabrook Island Club Members and their guests serene natural surroundings, pristine beaches and marshes, and endless amenities to enjoy. No matter where you go on the island, you will always have the perfect backdrop for a good read. So get ready to grab your summer novel and hit the beach with us!