If your plans this year lean towards relaxing at home, you can still soak up some amazing summer vibes. A great movie or series is the perfect escape from the scorching city streets to an imaginary beach. The best part? The AC or fan is running alongside! We’ve gathered some fantastic picks, whether you’re in the mood for a breezy comedy, romantic adventure, seaside settings, or a culinary journey. You’re sure to find something that matches your mood and makes the heatwave a little easier to handle.
1. Mamma Mia! (2008)
One of the most joyful and summery musicals ever, set among the Greek islands with sunshine and ABBA hits. A guaranteed mood booster, even in the hottest heat.
2. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations (2013)
What’s someone doing at tables set outdoors (or rugs spread under tents) if they’re not a chef? Anthony Bourdain explores fascinating, diverse places and tastes their local flavors. From Colombia to Morocco, Canada to Peru, even Congo, he experiences it all. Wonder why these places are "no chef’s land"? The series reveals it.
3. Summer of Soul (2021)
This Oscar-winning documentary by musician and filmmaker Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson showcases the six-week 1969 festival that was long overlooked. It features legendary performances by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly & the Family Stone, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Mahalia Jackson, B.B. King, The 5th Dimension, and many more.
4. Dazed and Confused (1993)
The whole story? A bunch of seventies teens partying after the last day of school. But behind this simple setup is a lot of heart and sharp observations, packed with the drama you’d expect from a wild group of teens. Matthew McConaughey’s sly performance as the twenty-something guy still hanging around high schoolers is a standout.
5. Sirens (2025)
This brand-new Netflix drama has everything a top-notch summer series needs: a dream cast including Julianne Moore, Kevin Bacon, Meghann Fahy, and Milly Alcock, stunning fashion and visuals, plus plenty of hot, passionate drama.
6. Outer Banks (2020)
This popular Netflix series with a beach vibe takes the crew back to their roots in the Outer Banks to hunt for treasure before heading to Morocco for more wild adventures.
7. The White Lotus (2021)
Pick from stunning beach locations, all packed with death and drama, while you enjoy breathtaking scenery. Choose the first season set in Hawaii, the second in Sicily, or the latest, third season in Thailand.
8. Big Little Lies (2017)
The story follows three moms whose seemingly perfect middle-class lives hide dark secrets. Their kids are just starting school, their lives look trouble-free, and their wishes are fulfilled. Based on Liane Moriarty’s bestseller, this star-studded cast features Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Shailene Woodley, and Alexander Skarsgard in lead roles.
