Beach Reads- 2026

When it comes to a day at the beach, choosing the right book can make all the difference. The ideal beach read is one that captivates you from the first page and keeps you engrossed as the waves crash nearby. It’s a book that leaves you feeling fulfilled, blending relaxation and entertainment perfectly. So, grab a comfy chair, a refreshing drink, some snacks and one of these recommended novels to make your time on the Grand Strand truly unforgettable. 

As a Myrtle Beach native and passionate reader, I was thrilled to recently discover local author Caleb Wygal’s Myrtle Beach Mysteries series. This ten-book collection follows Clark Thomas, a bookstore owner and amateur detective, through a series of engaging mysteries.  Each book can be read independently, but following the series rewards readers with a captivating storyline, familiar characters, quick chapters, and a gripping pace that keeps you coming back for more. If you love cozy mysteries, you will appreciate Wygal’s witty, fast paced and cleverly crafted writing. His latest installment, Death in Surfside, is now available on Amazon, but why not start at the beginning with Death on the Boardwalk and dive into the entire series?

T.I. Lowe’s novels are celebrated for their vibrant coastal settings, deeply emotional journeys, and well-drawn, relatable characters, all infused with a Southern charm that brings South Carolina’s Lowcountry to life. Her stories often center on themes of redemption, healing, and resilience. In her latest novel, South of Somewhere, readers follow Junie Wilder, who returns to her grandmother’s beach house on Sullivan’s Island to rebuild her life after addiction. As Junie strives to regain custody of her daughter, she discovers healing and redemption within the peaceful landscape and support of a close-knit community.