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The Best Beach Reads for Kids and Families This Summer

When people hear the phrase beach read, they often think of novels tucked into a tote bag for a relaxing day by the water. But for families, a great beach read can be so much more. The best beach reads for kids inspire curiosity, spark imagination, and help children stay engaged with reading all summer long.  

Whether you’re headed to the beach, camping under the stars, taking a road trip, or enjoying a staycation at home, bringing the right book along can turn any summer adventure into a literacy adventure. Reading throughout the summer helps children maintain reading skills, build vocabulary, and discover new interests, all while having fun.  

Looking for even more ways to keep kids reading? Check out RIF's Summer Camp, which offers free, themed reading resources and activities designed to make summer learning engaging and enjoyable. Pair those resources with RIF's Literacy Central collections to find books that match your family's summer plans. 

Best Books for Beach Lovers 

If your family is spending time by the ocean, these beach-themed books make perfect companions for a day in the sand. 

Surf’s Up by Kwame Alexander 

This playful story follows two friends with very different ideas about books and fun. Full of humor and energy, it’s a perfect beach read for young readers and a reminder that books can take us on exciting adventures.  

Paddington Sets Sail by Michael Bond 

Join everyone’s favorite bear as he experiences the beach for the first time. Young readers will enjoy Paddington’s charming mishaps and curiosity. 

Hello Ocean by Pam Muñoz Ryan 

Beautiful language and vivid imagery invite children to experience the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the shore. This book is ideal for sparking conversations about nature and observation.  

At the Beach (National Geographic Kids) 

For younger readers who love nonfiction, this engaging title introduces beach habitats and the animals that call them home.  

Best Books for Curious Explorers 

Not every beach read needs to be set at the beach. Summer is a wonderful time to explore the natural world through books.  

What If You Could Sniff Like a Shark? by Sandra Markle 

Kids fascinated by animals will love discovering the incredible abilities of ocean creatures. This nonfiction title blends science and imagination in a way that keeps readers turning pages.  

Ocean Animals Collection (National Geographic Kids) 

Packed with fascinating facts about sea otters, manatees, sea turtles, and more, this collection is perfect for children who love learning about marine life. 

You Can Save the Planet by Alessandra Potenza 

Young environmentalists can learn about climate action and how kids around the world are making a difference.  

Best Books for Outdoor Adventures 

For families exploring parks, trails, campgrounds, and backyards, these books help extend outdoor adventures long after the day’s activities end.  

Lola Plants a Garden by Anna McQuinn 

Inspired by poetry, Lola sets out to create her own garden. This delightful story encourages children to connect reading with hands-on exploration. 

Key Hunters: The Risky Rescue by Eric Luper 

Adventure-loving readers will enjoy this fast-paced story that proves getting lost in a good book can lead to unexpected excitement. 

Best Books for Reluctant Readers 

Summer is the perfect time to let children choose books that match their interests. Graphic novels, humorous stories, and highly visual books can help reluctant readers build confidence and enjoyment.  

RIF’s Graphic Novel Collection and Summer of Action-Packed Pages Collection offer exciting options for readers who prefer fast-moving plots, visual storytelling, and plenty of adventure. Giving children the freedom to choose books that interest them is one of the most effective ways to encourage reading motivation.  

Best Books for Family Road Trips 

Long car rides and travel days provide excellent opportunities for family reading. 

Collections like Summer Reading Road Trip and Staycation feature books that encourage children to stay engaged with reading wherever summer takes them. Whether you’re crossing state lines or enjoying your hometown, books can transform every trip into a journey of discovery.  

Create a Family Summer Reading List 

Invite everyone in the family to choose a few books for the season. Include a mix of fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, and read-aloud favorites. Having a shared reading list encourages children to see reading as a fun family activity rather than just another assignment. 

Make Reading Part of Every Summer Adventure 

This summer, let your family’s adventures guide your reading choices. Explore RIF’s Fun at the Beach Collection, Great Outdoors Collection, and Parks and Farm Collection to discover even more books and activities that keep reading fun all season long. 

No matter where your summer takes you, the perfect beach read is waiting.