A great vacation isn’t complete without the perfect book reads to dive into during downtime. Whether you’re lounging by the beach, curled up in a cozy cabin, or relaxing by the pool, the right vacation read can elevate your trip. We’ve put together a list of top books for every traveler’s preference—whether you’re after thrillers, romance, or something more introspective.
1. Romance: “People We Meet on Vacation” by Emily Henry
This witty and heartfelt romance is perfect for vacation reading. Poppy and Alex, best friends with opposite personalities, take an annual summer trip together. But after one disastrous trip, they stop speaking. Years later, they attempt to fix their friendship with one last vacation. Full of humor and warmth, it’s a delightful story of love and friendship.
Why it’s perfect for vacation: Set in various dreamy vacation spots, it’s a feel-good romance with relatable characters.
2. Thriller: “The Woman in Cabin 10” by Ruth Ware
For those who love a fast-paced mystery, The Woman in Cabin 10 will keep you on the edge of your seat. Set on a luxury cruise ship, travel journalist Lo witnesses a woman being thrown overboard—yet all the passengers are accounted for. With its suspenseful plot and exotic setting, it’s an ideal companion for a thrilling vacation read.
Why it’s perfect for vacation: The cruise ship setting adds an extra layer of tension, especially for readers who love travel-related mysteries.
3. Historical Fiction: “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
In this captivating novel, reclusive Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo finally opens up about her glamorous and scandalous life to an unknown journalist, Monique. As Evelyn recounts her seven marriages and rise to fame, secrets about her life are revealed. The mix of old Hollywood charm and modern revelations makes this a must-read.
Why it’s perfect for vacation: Its engrossing plot and glamorous settings make it an irresistible escape from reality.
4. Nonfiction: “Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” by Cheryl Strayed
If you’re in the mood for an inspiring true story, Wild is a memoir that recounts Cheryl Strayed’s solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail after the death of her mother and the breakdown of her marriage. It’s a powerful story of healing, self-discovery, and resilience.
Why it’s perfect for vacation: Its themes of adventure and personal growth make it the ultimate travel read for those looking for inspiration on their journeys.
5. Fantasy: “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern
Step into a world of magic and wonder with The Night Circus. This enchanting novel tells the tale of a mysterious circus that arrives without warning and is only open at night. Behind the scenes, two young magicians are pitted against each other in a competition of skill and imagination. With rich descriptions and a dreamlike atmosphere, it’s a fantastic escape into a world of fantasy.
Why it’s perfect for vacation: Its enchanting and whimsical narrative transports readers to a magical world, ideal for long, relaxing days.
6. Young Adult: “Anna and the French Kiss” by Stephanie Perkins
Set against the romantic backdrop of Paris, Anna and the French Kiss is a charming young adult novel about Anna, an American teen sent to a boarding school in France. There, she navigates friendships, culture shock, and a budding romance with the irresistibly charming Étienne St. Clair.
Why it’s perfect for vacation: The Parisian setting and heartwarming romance make it the perfect light and breezy read.
7. Science Fiction: “Recursion” by Blake Crouch
For sci-fi lovers, Recursion is a mind-bending thriller that explores the boundaries of memory and time. New York City cop Barry Sutton is drawn into a mysterious and dangerous technology that allows people to rewrite their memories. The novel is filled with high-stakes drama and scientific intrigue that will keep you glued to the page.
Why it’s perfect for vacation: It’s a gripping and fast-paced story that offers the perfect blend of action, suspense, and speculative science.
8. Literary Fiction: “The Vacationers” by Emma Straub
What better to read on vacation than a book about vacations? The Vacationers follows the Post family as they travel to the idyllic island of Mallorca. Over the course of two weeks, secrets are revealed, relationships are tested, and the dynamics of family and friendship are explored. It’s a perfect balance of humor and emotion, making it an enjoyable beach read.
Why it’s perfect for vacation.With its beautiful Mediterranean setting and relatable family drama, this novel feels tailor-made for summer vacations.
9. Memoir: “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert
Eat, Pray, Love is the ultimate travel memoir. After a painful divorce, Elizabeth Gilbert sets off on a journey across Italy, India, and Indonesia in search of pleasure, spirituality, and balance. This bestselling memoir is an inspiring tale of self-discovery and transformation.
Why it’s perfect for vacation. Its themes of travel, adventure, and self-reflection make it a perfect companion for a soul-searching vacation.
10. Classic: “A Room with a View” by E.M. Forster
Set in the sun-soaked hills of Florence, A Room with a View is a classic novel about Lucy Honeychurch, a young woman torn between convention and passion. As she navigates love and societal expectations, the novel offers a witty and charming critique of Edwardian society.
Why it’s perfect for vacation. The Italian setting and romantic plotline make it a timeless choice for a leisurely vacation read.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a thrilling mystery, or a thought-provoking memoir, there’s a perfect book for every vacation. Pack one of these vacation reads in your suitcase, and let yourself get lost in an unforgettable story.