20 Best Songs About Vacations

Chelsea Cooke

It’s finally summertime, and that means it’s the perfect time to hit the beach or take a vacation! Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling to a far-off destination, these 20 songs will help get you in the vacation mood. From classic rock to country to pop, there’s something for everyone on this list!

By the way, if you’re searching for more like songs about vacations, check out our articles on country songs about the beach, songs about being on water, songs about california, songs about secrets, and songs about summer love.

Cool For The Summer – Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato - Cool for the Summer (Official Video)

Cool for the Summer is a song about secrets – both the ones we keep to ourselves and the ones we share with others. Throughout the song, Demi Lovato sings about wanting to explore her wild side and break out of her comfort zone, making her feel “like I could be seeing something that’s right in front of me”. But she knows that when done wrong, these kinds of secrets can lead to pain and heartbreak. At the same time, however, she acknowledges that keeping too many secrets can also become unhealthy and prevent us from truly connecting with other people. 

VACATION – Dirty Heads

Dirty Heads - Vacation (Official Video)

The song “Vacation” by the band Dirty Heads is about the secrets that people keep from one another. The lyrics suggest that we all have secrets that we don’t want to share and that these secrets can cause problems in our relationships. The song is written from the perspective of someone who is in a relationship with someone who has a secret. The speaker in the song is trying to figure out what the secret is, and whether or not they can trust their partner. The lyrics also suggest that we should be careful about what secrets we keep, because they can sometimes be harmful to those around us.

Dedicated To The One I Love – The Mamas & The Papas

Dedicated to the one i love

Dedicated To The One I Love is a song written by Barry Mann and Gerry Goffin, originally recorded by the R&B group The Shirelles in 1958. The song was popularized in 1967 by The Mamas & The Papas, who reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart with their version. Mann and Goffin’s song is about a young woman declaring her love for her man, pledging to keep their relationship a secret from her disapproving mother. The Mamas & The Papas version features lead vocals by Mama Cass Elliot, with harmonies provided by Denny Doherty and Michelle Phillips.

Endless Summer Nights – Richard Marx

Richard Marx - Endless Summer Nights (Official Music Video)

There are few things more romantic than a summer night spent outdoors, and that’s exactly what Endless Summer Nights by Richard Marx is all about. The song depicts the simple pleasures of spending time with someone you care about, enjoying the warm summer breeze and the twinkling stars. It’s a perfect song for a summer date night, or for anyone who wants to relive the romance of their own summer nights. Whether you’re young or old, Endless Summer Nights is sure to bring back memories of your own personal summertime bliss.

Everybody Loves The Sunshine – Roy Ayers Ubiquity

Everybody Loves The Sunshine

The song ‘Everybody Loves the Sunshine’ by Roy Ayers Ubiquity is a beautiful, heartfelt tribute to the things that make life wonderful. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones or discovering new experiences, the artist celebrates all of the little joys that make us feel alive and connected. The lyrics also subtly hint at deeper secrets and hidden meanings, hinting at an inner wisdom that many of us often seek but rarely find. Through its soothing melody and uplifting message, this song reminds us to savor each moment of happiness and treasure our deepest secrets as precious treasures in our lives.

California Gurls – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - California Gurls (Official Music Video) ft. Snoop Dogg

California Gurls is one of the most iconic songs of modern pop music, with its infectious beat and catchy refrain. But what many people may not realize is that this song is actually about the allure of secret places and hidden desires. The lyrics evoke images of exotic locales, from sandy beaches to shimmering city streets, conveying a strong sense of excitement and anticipation. At the same time, these lyrics also hint at darker themes that lie beneath the surface, such as temptation and obsession.

I Like It – Cardi B

Cardi B, Bad Bunny & J Balvin - I Like It [Official Music Video]

I Like It is a song about secrets, and it does an excellent job of capturing the many different emotions that accompany carrying a secret. The main character in this song feels both anxious and excited about her secret, as she knows it could be both good and bad news. She also describes the feeling of being torn between wanting to share her secret with others and not wanting to risk putting her loved ones in harm’s way. Throughout the song, Cardi B captures the conflicting feelings that often surround hidden truths, while also conveying powerful messages about self-acceptance and owning your own story.

Toes – Zac Brown Band

Toes (Greatest Hits Version)

“Toes” is a song by Zac Brown Band. It was released in August 2009 as the fourth single from their album The Foundation. The song peaked at number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and has been certified 4× Platinum by the RIAA. The song is about keeping secrets. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who talks to his toes, telling them to keep his secrets safe. He says that if they tell, he will “step on them”. The lyrics are lighthearted and meant to be fun, but they also have a hidden meaning. The young man in the song is likely referencing a time in his life when he was keeping a secret from someone else.

Hot Girl Summer (feat. Nicki Minaj & Ty Dolla $ign) – Megan Thee Stallion

Megan Thee Stallion - Hot Girl Summer ft. Nicki Minaj & Ty Dolla $ign

Hot Girl Summer (feat. Nicki Minaj & Ty Dolla $ign) is a song by Megan Thee Stallion all about knowing your worth and living your best life. The catchy beat and empowering lyrics make it the perfect anthem for anyone looking to have a fun summer. In the song, Megan encourages listeners to let their hair down, be themselves, and enjoy every moment. She also touches on the importance of keeping secrets, warning listeners not to kiss and tell. Whether you’re headed to the beach or just hanging out with friends, Hot Girl Summer is the perfect song to get you in the mood for some fun in the sun.

Old Town Road – Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X - Old Town Road (Official Video) ft. Billy Ray Cyrus

Old Town Road by Lil Nas X is a song about secrets. The lyrics tell the story of someone who is trying to keep a secret hidden, but eventually the truth comes out. The song is set in the old west, and the music reflects this with its country and western influence. The song has been very successful, reaching the top of the Billboard charts, and it has been praised for its catchy melody and clever lyrics. Old Town Road is a song about secrets, but it also has a message about being true to yourself and not letting anyone else control your life.

Surfin’ USA – The Beach Boys

Beach Boys - Surfin Usa HD

Surfin’ USA is a classic surf rock song by The Beach Boys, and it is often celebrated for its upbeat melody and catchy lyrics. What many people don’t realize, however, is that this song is actually about secrets. Specifically, it talks about the allure of keeping your personal information private, even when everyone around you seems to be sharing their own secrets with little hesitation. Overall, this song highlights the appeal of hidden knowledge and urges us to treasure our secrets rather than give them up too easily. Whether you’re a surfer or not, Surfin’ USA is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand what it really means to live life on the edge.

Summerboy – Lady Gaga

Summerboy is a song by American pop singer Lady Gaga. The song was released as the lead single from her debut album, The Fame, in 2008. Summerboy is a mid-tempo synth-pop track that lyrically speaks about the singer’s summertime fling with a boy who she eventually has to say goodbye to. The song received mixed reviews from music critics, with some praising its catchy melody and production, while others criticized its lyrical content. The song’s accompanying music video was directed by Jonas & François and features Gaga dancing on a beach with friends.

Hot In Herre – Nelly

Nelly - Hot In Herre (Official Music Video)

Hot in Herre is one of the most iconic and well-loved songs of the early 2000s. Known for its catchy melody, fun and playful lyrics, and celebratory vibe, Hot in Herre tells the story of a secretive relationship between two secretive lovers. Signed to Nelly’s platinum-selling album “Nellyville” released in 2002, this hugely popular dance track has become an anthem for people who value their privacy and cherish their hidden desires.

Springsteen – Eric Church

Eric Church - Springsteen (Official Music Video)

Though many artists capture the feeling of springtime in their songs, few do so quite as eloquently as Eric Church. His heartfelt ballad “Springsteen” paints a vivid and moving portrait of the season, exploring themes of anticipation and newfound love. At its core, the song is about secrets: the secret that lovers whisper to each other on long drives in warm weather, the secret knowledge that comes with first experiences, and ultimately, the ways in which we all try to hide our vulnerabilities in order to protect ourselves.

Summertime – Louis Armstrong

Summertime (Remastered)

Summertime is a song written by George Gershwin and DuBose Heyward in 1934. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, but it is best known for Louis Armstrong’s version, which he recorded in 1936. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a young woman who is trying to keep a secret from her lover. She knows that if she tells him the truth, he will leave her. However, she also knows that she can’t keep the secret forever. Summertime is a classic example of the blues genre, with its melancholy lyrics and slow, mournful melody. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, but Louis Armstrong’s version is arguably the most famous. The recording was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1974 and has been featured in numerous films and television shows.

Under The Boardwalk – The Drifters

Under the Boardwalk

Under The Boardwalk is a song written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller which was first recorded by The Drifters in 1964. The song is about two lovers who spend their days together at the beach, and their nights underneath the boardwalk where they can share their secrets without judgement. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, and it remains a popular summertime anthem. Under The Boardwalk is a perfect example of Leiber and Stoller’s ability to write catchy, upbeat songs with relatable lyrics. The song perfectly captures the carefree feeling of young love, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal.

Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini – Brian Hyland

Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini

The lyrics of “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini” tell the story of a young woman who is hesitant to reveal her swimwear to the world. She is afraid of what people will think of her body, but ultimately decides that she is proud of her curves and goes out to enjoy the sun. The song became a massive hit in the summer of 1960, and has since been covered by numerous artists. It remains an iconic symbol of female empowerment, and its message is as relevant today as it was when it was first released. Whether you’re rocking a bikini on the beach or simply enjoying a sunny day, remember that you’re beautiful just the way you are.

In The Summertime – Mungo Jerry

Mungo Jerry - In The Summertime ORIGINAL 1970

In The Summertime is a classic summer song written and performed by Mungo Jerry. The song was released in 1970 and quickly became a global hit, reaching number one in several countries. The lyrics of the song are light-hearted and optimistic, painting a picture of carefree days spent enjoying the summer sun. However, beneath the surface, the song is actually about a much more serious topic: the risk of exposing secrets. This feeling of openness and vulnerability can lead to people making careless mistakes, such as revealing a secret that they should have kept to themselves. While In The Summertime is primarily known as a feel-good summer anthem, it also contains an important message about the need to be careful with our words.

Margaritaville – Jimmy Buffett

Margaritaville (Live (1978 Version))

Margaritaville is a song written and performed by Jimmy Buffett, one of the world’s most popular musicians. The song paints a picture of life in paradise and celebrates the freedom that comes with letting go of your worries and living without regrets. At the same time, Margaritaville also speaks to some of the more secretive elements of this carefree lifestyle, like avoiding responsibility and burying your feelings instead of confronting them. Perhaps this is why so many people love Margaritaville and have embraced it as their own anthem when it comes to all things “Paradise.”

Walking On Sunshine – Katrina & The Waves

Katrina & The Waves - Walking On Sunshine (Official Music Video)

Walking on Sunshine is a song about secrets – the secret longings and desires that we keep hidden deep inside ourselves, hoping that no one will ever find out about them. This often leaves us feeling weighed down and burdened by these inner secrets, unable to fully enjoy life as we would like. However, with the help of catchy tunes and uplifting lyrics, this song reminds us that there is always hope and light at the end of the tunnel. By sharing these private thoughts with others, whether through song or in other ways, we can start to release this weight and move towards a more joyful existence. So next time you’re feeling down, don’t just walk on sunshine – let your inner light shine bright for all to see!