Top Summer Beach Reads Set in New York: Hamptons, Fire Island & More
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One of the things I secretly loved about living in New York City was how the city emptied out every summer. Everyone fled to their summer share houses in the Hamptons, Fire Island, or even down the Jersey Shore—leaving the streets quieter and subways slightly less crowded.
As someone who grew up in the Caribbean surrounded by postcard-perfect blue water and powdery sand, I’ll admit NYC beaches have never wowed me. But it’s still nice to know you can hop on a train (or drive out east) and dip your toes in the sand. Personally, I spent more time at local pools, tanning with a good book and catching up with friends.
If you’re craving that dreamy, slightly messy summer share house vibe—like Summer House on Bravo—these books set in the Hamptons, Fire Island, and other NY beach towns will whisk you away. Expect sun-soaked drama, second chances, sizzling chemistry, and friend group shenanigans, all wrapped up in summer nostalgia.
Hotter in the Hamptons by Tinx
In Hotter in the Hamptons, influencer and NYC it-girl Lola escapes to the Hamptons after a public scandal tanks her career. The last person she expects to see next door? Aly Ray Carter—the culture critic who helped destroy her reputation. As sparks fly and old wounds reopen, Lola must navigate her feelings for her supposed enemy.
Why You’ll Love It: This is perfect if you love rivals-to-lovers, social media scandal, and the glamorous-yet-catty energy of Hamptons summer parties.
Elizabeth of East Hampton by Audrey Bellezza and Emily Harding
A clever modern Pride and Prejudice retelling set in the Hamptons, Elizabeth of East Hampton follows Lizzy Bennet, a local baker who bristles at the entitled summer crowd—especially newcomer Will Darcy. As their friends fall in love, Lizzy and Will keep clashing, until long, lazy days by the beach start to change everything.
Why You’ll Love It: Expect witty banter, sharp social observations, and a refreshing look at class divides on the East End—plus all the charm of a rom-com in a coastal setting.
Serendipity by Becky Chalsen
In Serendipity, Maggie comes home to New York after a failed Hollywood stint, only to confront her ex and old friends during three summer weekends at a Fire Island share house. Long-buried feelings and secrets bubble up, threatening their fragile reunion.
Why You’ll Love It: This is a heartfelt story about friendship, forgiveness, and rediscovering your place in the world—ideal if you love a summer backdrop with nostalgic, slightly bittersweet vibes.
Seven Summer Weekends by Jane L. Rosen
When Addison inherits her aunt’s Fire Island house, she’s tasked with hosting a rotating cast of guests over seven weekends. What starts as an escape from her own career mess turns into a transformative season, complete with quirky locals and a grumpy neighbor she can’t seem to avoid.
Why You’ll Love It: If you enjoy cozy small-town (or small-beach) stories, found family, and a bit of slow-burn romance, this book feels like a warm hug.
Holiday in the Hamptons by Sarah Morgan
Fliss flees NYC to the Hamptons after unexpectedly bumping into her ex-husband, Seth—only to discover he’s the local vet. Determined not to let old feelings resurface, Fliss is blindsided by Seth’s persistence and all the memories the Hamptons bring back.
Why You’ll Love It: A sweet second-chance romance with dogs, long beach walks, and lots of heart—perfect if you like your summer reads with a side of emotional healing.
Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan
Ali is a professional organizer whose life is decidedly messy—widowed, freshly divorced, and trying to hold it all together for her kids. A chance encounter with charming Ethan (thanks to her dog) opens up the possibility of love again, if she’s brave enough to take it.
Why You’ll Love It: Witty, tender, and a little messy in the best way, this is for anyone who believes summer flings can turn into something more.
Summer on Sag Harbor by Sunny Hostin
Olivia retreats to Sag Harbor—a historic Black beach community in the Hamptons—hoping to heal from heartbreak and a demanding NYC career. As she’s embraced by locals and fights to protect their neighborhood, Olivia rebuilds her life and discovers what truly matters.
Why You’ll Love It: A beautiful blend of community, legacy, and finding your place, this book is both inspiring and deeply rooted in the unique culture of the East End.
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In Good Company by Kat Singleton
When private chef Sutton takes a summer job in the Hamptons cooking for billionaire Cal Hastings—her ex’s older brother—she knows it’s a recipe for trouble. But their chemistry is undeniable, and what starts as a fling might become so much more.
Why You’ll Love It: A decadent, steamy escape with forced proximity, a luxe setting, and plenty of emotional stakes—like a beachy Gossip Girl with grown-ups.
Three Strikes and You’re Mine by R.S. Grey
After losing her job and her boyfriend in one fell swoop, our heroine ends up cooking for a professional baseball player—and single dad—at the Hamptons. He’s her boss, totally off-limits, and yet… well, sparks are unavoidable.
Why You’ll Love It: Laugh-out-loud funny, with slow-burn romance and tender family moments—this is the perfect book to toss in your beach bag.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you’re lounging poolside in the city like I used to, or daydreaming of Hamptons clambakes and Fire Island sunsets, these books capture the summer spirit of New York’s beaches perfectly—messy relationships, self-discovery, and all.
Have you read any of these? I’d love to hear your thoughts or get your favorite NYC summer book recs. Drop a comment below or sign up for our Substack at wtrnblog.substack.com so you never miss a list like this. Happy reading! 💛
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