Ah, oceans. Islands. Beaches! Often times, those things bring to mind a sunny paradise ideal for vacations. But it only takes one unfortunate event to turn any beach into a potential death sentence. We’re here to make sure your summer TV plans don’t end in disaster, only pure binge-watching bliss!
Is winter getting you down? Or maybe it’s just plain unbearably hot outside, giving you the perfect excuse to hunker down inside, fuse your body with your couch cushions, and binge watch television while the A/C blasts! You’ve blown through every show you know to watch on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and every other streaming service out there, and now you’re looking for something NEW to binge watch. Don’t worry, we got you covered!
Forget the struggle of choosing your next obsession; we’ve scoured the shows out there, and come up with an incredible list of the best TV shows that take place on a beach, ready for you to dive into! Whether you’re dreaming of golden sands, dramatic coastlines, or just a good old-fashioned seaside mystery, these series are your perfect companion for those blissful, air-conditioned indoor days. Get ready to grab your popcorn (and maybe a virtual swimsuit!), because we’re about to transport you to some of the most captivating coastal settings television has to offer. Happy Watching!
1. **Baywatch (1989)** Okay, let’s kick things off with a classic that absolutely screams “summer vibes” from the top of its lungs! “What other location screams ‘beach holiday’ more than California and Hawaii?” Seriously, this show is practically synonymous with sun-soaked shores and the kind of high-stakes drama that only happens when you’re rocking a “skimpy red swimsuit.” Get ready to soak up some serious nostalgia, because *Baywatch* is here to make your summer binge-watching dreams come true!
Created by the dynamic trio Michael Berk, Douglas Schwartz, and Gregory J. Bonann, this iconic series once reigned supreme as “the most-watched television show in the world, with an audience of 1.1 billion viewers every week.” Talk about a global phenomenon! Even if it’s “now parodied and mocked in pop culture,” there’s no denying its legendary status. It’s pure, unadulterated beach-based action, adventure, and even a little crime thrown in for good measure.
Starring the legendary David Hasselhoff, Pamela Anderson, and Yasmine Bleeth, *Baywatch* gives us exactly what we want: “David Hasselhoff and his crew run around the shorelines of Los Angeles, saving lives together in skimpy red swimsuits.” It’s an action-drama that’s definitely “not a show you should take too seriously,” which makes it the perfect lighthearted escape for those long summer days. Just kick back and enjoy the incredible scenery, both natural and human!
And if you’ve already binged all 242 episodes (across 11 seasons!), you might remember “It was recently remade as a 2017 comedy movie starring Zac Efron and Dwayne Johnson, directed by Seth Gordon.” So, whether you’re into the original iconic series or curious about its modern, comedic take, *Baywatch* is the ultimate sunny escape. It’s got that feel-good, slightly cheesy, utterly irresistible charm that makes it a must-watch for any beach lover!
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2. **We Are Who We Are (2020)** Alright, let’s shift gears from iconic red swimsuits to something a little more introspective, but still absolutely dripping with coastal atmosphere! *We Are Who We Are* is an Italian-American miniseries that might just be your next deep-dive, emotional summer watch. “Set on a fictional US military base in Chioggia, Italy, which is surrounded by blustering, foamy seas,” this show brings serious seaside drama with an art-house flair.
Created by Luca Guadagnino, Paolo Giordano, and Sean Conway, this single-season, 8-episode drama is a profound “coming-of-age tale as old as time, playing out against a backdrop of intertwining cultures.” It’s the kind of show that draws you in with its stunning visuals and keeps you hooked with its raw, relatable storytelling. If you’re looking for a show that truly transports you, this is it!
Starring Jack Dylan Grazer, Jordan Kristine Seamón, and Chloë Sevigny, the series follows “two 14-year-old Americans who move to the foreign town.” It’s packed with universal “themes of love, friendship, first times, and personal identity,” making it incredibly resonant, especially for anyone who remembers the confusing, exciting, and sometimes overwhelming journey of adolescence.
“We Are Who We Are perfectly captures the messy and often unsettling experience of being a teenager, while balancing its subdued drama with moments of pure shock.” This isn’t just a pretty backdrop; the coastal setting provides a powerful sense of isolation and freedom that perfectly complements the characters’ emotional journeys. Prepare for a thought-provoking binge that will have you reflecting long after the credits roll!
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3. **The Durrells (2016)** Ready for a sun-drenched escape to a Greek island, complete with charming eccentricities and a whole lot of family drama? Look no further than *The Durrells*, also affectionately known as *The Durrells in Corfu*! This delightful series is “loosely based on Gerald Durrell’s autobiographies” and is guaranteed to sweep you away to a different time and place – specifically, “the Greek island of Corfu, to which the Durrell family suddenly decides to move.”
Created by Simon Nye, this “gorgeous sea-swept ITV comedy series” boasts 26 episodes across 4 seasons, offering plenty of content for a blissful summer binge. It’s an absolute treat for anyone who loves a blend of biography, comedy, and drama, all set against a stunning coastal backdrop. Just imagine yourself basking in that Mediterranean sunshine alongside the Durrells!
The premise is simple but utterly captivating: “Worlds away from their British lives in Bournemouth, the Durrells struggle to adjust to their new island lifestyle.” Set in the 1930s, you’ll follow this wonderfully “dysfunctional family through all the trials and tribulations of starting anew.” Their adventures, misadventures, and hilarious attempts to fit in make for truly heartwarming and laugh-out-loud viewing.
And let’s not forget the incredible cast! Keeley Hawes “stars as head of the family and she’s simply bursting with charm—an English rose among the foreign tropics.” You’ll fall in love with her resilient spirit and the entire family’s quirky personalities. So, if you’re yearning for a dose of historical charm, stunning island scenery, and a family you’ll instantly adore, *The Durrells* is your perfect summer companion!
4. **Doc Martin (2004)** From sunny Greek islands, let’s take a delightful (and slightly grumpy!) trip to the picturesque coast of Cornwall, England! If you’re into quirky characters, charming seaside towns, and a healthy dose of British wit, then *Doc Martin* is absolutely your next binge-watch. Imagine this: “A surgeon with hemophobia? Well, that’s inconvenient!” That’s our hero, Martin, in a nutshell.
Created by Dominic Minghella, this series stars Martin Clunes as the titular doctor, alongside Caroline Catz and Ian McNeice. With an impressive 79 episodes across 10 seasons, you’re sure to have plenty of content to keep you entertained all summer long. This cozy blend of comedy, drama, and romance is rated 8.4 on IMDb, so you know you’re in for a good time!
Martin, “a socially awkward (implied autistic) doctor who struggles to fit in with his new small town surgery,” finds himself quite the fish out of water. “Without the distracting bustle of London to hide within, Martin’s blunt nature comes as a shock to the coastal town of Portwenn, where everybody knows everybody else.” His dry humor and inability to sugarcoat anything make for some truly hilarious and heartwarming moments as he navigates small-town life.
“Inspired by the doctor in Nigel Cole’s Saving Grace, we can’t help but fall in love with Martin despite his unusual ways.” This is truly “the perfect watch for an easy night in, whisking us off to the picturesque mountains of Cornwall.” It’s the kind of show that feels like a warm hug, even with Martin’s sometimes frosty demeanor. Get ready to fall for the charm of Portwenn and its unforgettable residents!
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5. **Lost (2004)** Alright, put on your metaphorical survival gear, because we’re heading to a truly mysterious and isolated island! If you’re a fan of high-stakes adventure, mind-bending puzzles, and a whole lot of drama, then *Lost* is absolutely your next summer obsession. Imagine “a group of airline passengers who crash-land on a mysterious island in the South Pacific Ocean.” Sounds intense, right? It totally is!
This iconic series, “created by J. J. Abrams, Damon Lindelof, and Jeffrey Lieber,” stars a massive cast including Matthew Fox, Evangeline Lilly, and Jorge Garcia. With “121 episodes (6 seasons)” to devour, you’re in for one epic journey. The show’s premise is so compelling that “If you enjoyed the movie Cast Away, then this show’s premise will be right up your alley” – it was even “originally intended to be an adaptation of that film!”
*Lost* is not just a survival story; it’s a deep dive into character and supernatural mystery. “Using a clever flashback format, the show explores one main character per episode and takes us back to some formative moment in their past. We grow to know and care for characters, all of whom struggle with some kind of otherworldly pain.” Each season is “packed with drama, character depth, and mysteries that’ll keep you hooked,” keeping you guessing at every turn.
While “its ending leaves a lot to be desired,” the journey is truly what makes this show legendary. “The first season is universally regarded as some of the finest TV ever made.” “Twists abound as we find various, often ridiculous, ways characters are connected.” Prepare for “a shedload of supernatural mystery mixed in around every corner” and “some of the best twists.” “The ride is more enjoyable than the destination,” so buckle up for an unforgettable summer binge!
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6. **Don’t Forget the Driver (2019)** Let’s bring it back to a more grounded, yet equally captivating, coastal setting! If you’re in the mood for a thoughtful, darkly humorous, and incredibly relevant series that might have “slipped under your radar,” then *Don’t Forget the Driver* is calling your name. This brilliant BBC series takes us to “Bognor Regis, which is a seaside resort in West Sussex, England,” proving that even a quiet coastal town can be the backdrop for profound storytelling.
Created, written, and directed by the talented Tim Crouch and Toby Jones, this gem offers “6 episodes (1 season)” of gripping content. Starring Toby Jones himself, alongside Erin Kellyman and Claire Rushbrook, it’s a comedy-drama that masterfully balances laughs with poignant social commentary. It’s the perfect show for those who appreciate intelligent writing and a coastal setting with a unique twist.
Jones delivers a compelling performance as Pete Green, “a depressed single dad driving around coaches for a living.” His ordinary life takes an extraordinary turn when, “On one of his jobs, Pete Green discovers an asylum seeker—and in a post-Brexit world, he isn’t sure what to do.” This premise immediately grabs your attention, promising a narrative that’s both personal and incredibly timely.
This series is a “timely tale that uses humor to tackle real pressing issues,” offering a fresh perspective on contemporary challenges. It’s truly a testament to how television can be both entertaining and deeply meaningful. So, if you’re looking for a show that will make you think, laugh, and appreciate the unique charm of a British seaside resort, make sure to add *Don’t Forget the Driver* to your summer queue! We’re “here to revive it” for a reason!
Okay, team, if you thought the first half of our summer binge-watch list was good, get ready to dive even deeper! We’re talking more sun-drenched shores, more thrilling mysteries, and definitely more reasons to glue yourself to the couch with the A/C blasting. Our coastal TV journey is far from over, and trust us, the next wave of shows is just as captivating, promising everything from teen treasure hunts to period romances by the sea and intense dramas against dramatic backdrops. So, grab another snack, because your summer just got even better!
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7. **Outer Banks (2020)**Are you ready for some serious teen drama, treasure hunts, and enough sun-kissed scenery to make you forget about your actual responsibilities? Then Netflix’s *Outer Banks* is calling your name! We’re talking about the blissful beaches of North Carolina, but don’t let the postcard-perfect setting fool you – there’s a gaping class divide here that fuels a whole lot of juicy conflict. This show is an absolute rush from start to finish!
Our journey begins with the charismatic John B. Routledge, played by the amazing Chase Stokes, who leads the Pogue ringleader crew (aka the coolest working-class locals around). His world gets turned upside down when he uncovers a legendary treasure, a mystery deeply linked to his father’s disappearance. Seriously, how much more intriguing can one summer get? It’s like *The Goonies* met *Dawson’s Creek*, but with more high-stakes adventure and, let’s be real, way more surfing.
Alongside John B., you’ll fall in love with the rest of the Pogue gang: Madelyn Cline, Madison Bailey, Jonathan Daviss, and Rudy Pankow, all bringing their A-game. Together, they navigate the treacherous waters of adolescence, dealing with all the usual woes – think intense love triangles, rebellious acts, and even some questionable choices that make for epic viewing. It’s a true coming-of-age saga, but with a super cool, treasure-hunting twist.
This mysterious action-adventure Netflix Original has already captivated audiences for three seasons, and guess what? There’s more to come! If you’re looking for a show that perfectly blends action, crime, drama, and a whole lot of coastal charm, then *Outer Banks* needs to be at the very top of your summer binge-list. Get ready to join the Pogues on their wild ride – you won’t regret it!
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8. **Sanditon (2019)**Alright, history buffs and romance lovers, prepare to swoon! If you’ve ever wished for more Jane Austen, then *Sanditon* is your dream come true. This absolutely stunning ITV period drama breathes life into Austen’s unfinished manuscript, transporting us back in time to a fictional seaside town along the South West of England. Imagine dramatic cliffs, charming promenades, and a whole lot of Regency-era gossip and intrigue – it’s pure escapism at its finest!
The story centers on the bright-eyed Charlotte Heywood, brought to life beautifully by Rose Williams, as she moves to this burgeoning resort town to start an exciting new life. But as anyone familiar with Austen knows, new lives in new places rarely go smoothly. Charlotte quickly finds herself embroiled in a world filled with eligible suitors, closely guarded secrets, and the simmering social changes of the era.
Now, a fishing village might not sound like the epicenter of excitement, but trust us, *Sanditon* delivers! With an array of handsome heartthrobs and a town full of scheming townsfolk, every twist and turn keeps you on the edge of your seat. The show masterfully weaves together romance, class struggles, and the vibrant energy of a town on the cusp of change, making for truly compelling television.
With three captivating seasons, this isn’t just a historical drama; it’s a glistening, spirited journey that ripples with emotion and wit. If you adore period pieces, grand romances, or simply appreciate a beautifully told story set against a picturesque coastal backdrop, then *Sanditon* is an absolute must-watch. You’ll be swept away by its charm and character from the very first episode!
9. **Hinterland (2013)**From the sun-drenched English coast to the atmospheric, rugged beauty of Wales, we’re taking a darker turn with *Hinterland*, or as it’s known in Welsh, *Y Gwyll* (meaning ‘the dusk’). If you crave a classic murder mystery steeped in a unique cultural setting, then this show is your next obsession! It unfolds beside the rolling hills and dramatic waves of Ceredigion, Wales, offering a landscape that’s as integral to the mood as the gripping plot itself.
Created by the visionary Ed Talfan and Ed Thomas, *Hinterland* was conceived with a powerful mission: to introduce more Welsh voices, history, and culture to the BBC. And boy, does it deliver! The series stars the brilliant Richard Harrington as DCI Tom Mathias, a man haunted by his past and searching for redemption in a rural town far from the bustling anonymity of London. His character’s journey is as complex and compelling as the mysteries he unravels.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this show is its commitment to authenticity and reach: each scene was filmed twice—once in English, once in Welsh—to satisfy all audiences. This dedication not only showcases the rich linguistic heritage of Wales but also adds an incredible layer of depth to the viewing experience. DCI Tom’s blunt nature and a desire to escape his past make for a truly engaging protagonist.
Infused with gritty elements of the noir genre, *Hinterland* isn’t just a police procedural; it’s a sophisticated piece of coastal television that will keep you guessing and completely immersed. The raw, untamed beauty of the Welsh landscape serves as a stark contrast to the dark human dramas unfolding within it. For fans of atmospheric crime and intricate storytelling, *Hinterland* is a binge-worthy triumph!
10. **Big Little Lies (2017)**Prepare yourselves for some seriously star-studded, utterly addictive drama, because *Big Little Lies* is here to dominate your screen! This incredible show is a masterclass in suspense and character, set against the backdrop of the plush, idyllic beaches of California. Seriously, the cast alone is enough to draw you in – we’re talking Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Shailene Woodley, Alexander Skarsgård, Adam Scott, Zoë Kravitz, Laura Dern, and even the legendary Meryl Streep! It’s an embarrassment of riches, and every single one of them delivers a knockout performance.
Created by the brilliant David E. Kelley, this series quickly garnered widespread critical acclaim for all the right reasons. The premise is instantly captivating: three wealthy women, living seemingly perfect lives in a picturesque coastal town, find their worlds spectacularly torn apart by a murder. But this isn’t just any murder mystery; it’s a deep dive into the secrets, lies, and simmering tensions that lurk beneath the surface of their flawless exteriors.
What truly makes *Big Little Lies* binge-worthy is its intoxicating blend of juicy drama, gripping plotlines, and a deliciously dark humor that will have you gasping one moment and chuckling the next. As the layers peel back, you’ll find yourself questioning everything and everyone, drawn deeper into the intricate web of their lives. The show handles complex themes of domestic abuse, friendship, and motherhood with incredible nuance and power.
And let’s not forget the artistry! From its breathtaking cinematography that captures the stunning Californian coast in all its glory, to its absolutely iconic soundtrack that perfectly sets the mood, *Big Little Lies* is a feast for the senses. With two phenomenal seasons to devour, this show is more than just entertainment; it’s an experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Get ready for a wild, unforgettable ride!
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11. **Poldark (2015)**Calling all historical romance fanatics! If you’re ready for a sweeping saga of love, loss, and dramatic Cornish landscapes, then you absolutely *must* add *Poldark* to your summer binge list. This celebrated BBC period drama, created by the fantastic Debbie Horsfield, whisks us away to 1783, a time of rugged beauty and social upheaval in Cornwall, England. And yes, viewers definitely buzzed when Aidan Turner flaunted his six-pack, but trust us, there’s so much more to this show than just that!
The story centers on the dashing Captain Ross Poldark, portrayed by the captivating Aidan Turner, as he returns home from the American Revolutionary War. But his homecoming is far from joyful. He finds his world utterly shattered: his true love engaged to another, his father deceased, and his beloved estate in ruins. It’s a tale of resilience, rebuilding, and fighting against all odds, both personal and societal.
Based on Winston Graham’s beloved book series, *Poldark* is a re-adaptation of a 1975 version, this time with even more finesse and emotional depth. The show masterfully portrays the hardships and triumphs of the era, the stark class divisions, and the raw, untamed spirit of the Cornish people. You’ll be completely invested in Ross’s journey, his fiery romance with Demelza, and his ongoing battle to reclaim his family’s honor and fortune.
With 43 episodes spread across five glorious seasons, *Poldark* offers an epic amount of content for a truly immersive binge. If you’re a fan of anything historical or romantic, with complex characters and breathtaking scenery, then this show is practically tailor-made for you. Prepare to be transported to a time of passion, peril, and unforgettable drama – your summer romance officially starts here!
12. **Broadchurch (2013)**And for our grand finale, we’re heading to the stunning, yet tragically captivating, cliffs of Dorset, England, with the critically acclaimed *Broadchurch*. Get ready to practically feel the chilly, salty sea air and the profound emotional weight coming off this ITV series, conceptualized by the brilliant Chris Chibnall. This show is a masterclass in atmospheric crime drama, proving that a picturesque setting can hold the darkest of secrets.
The heart of *Broadchurch* lies with its phenomenal detective duo: David Tennant and Olivia Colman, who deliver performances that are nothing short of iconic. Their love/hate relationship as they’re tasked with finding the murderer of 11-year-old Danny Latimer is incredibly compelling, full of nuanced tension and unexpected warmth. The investigation isn’t just about finding a killer; it’s about peeling back the layers of a close-knit community, revealing the secrets and suspicions that lie beneath the surface.
This isn’t just a gripping mystery; it’s a cinematically dazzling experience, tinged with a sort of dreamy melancholy that elevates it far beyond a typical procedural. The trilogy series was universally hailed by critics and viewers alike for its incredible writing, powerful acting, and stunning visual storytelling. It truly resonates, showcasing the impact of tragedy on an entire town.
*Broadchurch* went on to win multiple BAFTAs and famously launched Olivia Colman from the sidelines of British comedy to the bright spotlights of Hollywood, cementing her status as a global star. If you’re looking for a show that is as beautiful as it is heartbreaking, as suspenseful as it is thought-provoking, then *Broadchurch* is the perfect, unforgettable wrap-up to your summer binge-watching journey. Prepare for a powerful, emotional ride!
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Well, there you have it, folks! Twelve incredible, bikini-filled (and sometimes just coastal-scene-filled!) TV shows ready to make your summer binge-watching dreams come true. Whether you’re into high-stakes treasure hunts, swoon-worthy historical romances, or gripping murder mysteries, these series will transport you to stunning shores and keep you entertained for hours on end. So, crank up that A/C, get cozy, and let these amazing shows wash over you. Happy viewing, and may your summer be filled with endless screen time and zero regrets!
