![[2026] Classic songs and love songs themed around or set at the sea and the beach — sea songs](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/WwnZeQiI6hQ/maxresdefault.webp)
[2026] Classic songs and love songs themed around or set at the sea and the beach — sea songs
When you hear “songs of the sea,” what kind of tunes come to mind?
Chances are, the first thing you imagine is bright, open, summery anthems perfect for the season, right?
In this article, we’ll introduce a variety of sea-themed songs from different angles—not only upbeat tracks that get you going, but also mellow, heartfelt pieces, including songs set by the sea that portray feelings like love.
We’ve also included some fresh, breezy tracks ideal for coastal drives.
That liberating mood, romance blossoming in the great outdoors, moments spent by the ocean, and those times when your thoughts drift to the sea…
Be sure to find the sea songs that match your mood in the moment, and enjoy a wonderful time listening.
[2026] Classic songs and love songs themed around or set at the sea and the beach — Sea Songs (1–10)
The Old Man and the SeaYorushika
Beginning with gentle guitar strains, this song draws inspiration from Ernest Hemingway’s renowned novel and evokes a comforting feeling, as if you were on a quiet seaside.
Suis’s crystalline vocals seem to weave a story that transcends reality and journeys deep into the heart.
It may be centered on the inner strength of humans who refuse to lose hope even in the face of hardship.
Released in August 2021, the piece became widely known as the TV commercial song for Vanish Standard Inc.’s service “STAFF START.” It resonated with many, aligning with the commercial’s message, “A world where you don’t have to give up on what you love.” It’s perfect for moments when you want to spend time leisurely by the sea or quietly sink into contemplation—ideal listening when you’re in the mood to relax.
This is also a recommended track for those who enjoy music with literary depth.
Ghost of the SeaYonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu, an artist often hailed as a once-in-a-decade genius.
His 2019 release “Umi no Yuurei” (Spirits of the Sea) is, as the title suggests, a grand piece themed around the ocean.
The mechanically processed chorus is striking, evoking an eerie, ghost-like aura.
It also carries a distinctly summer-tinged nostalgia, doesn’t it?
Nagisasupittsu
Just from the title “Nagisa,” you can tell it’s a song that evokes the sea, and don’t you feel the ocean somehow even from the intro? Spitz’s song “Nagisa” was released in 1996 as their 14th single, and it’s a famous track that many know from cover versions and TV commercials.
It’s also one of the most popular songs in Spitz’s catalog.
The track has a hazy, dreamlike, almost fantastical feel—like a seaside you see in a dream, blurring the line between dream and reality.
It’s also a great pick as a driving song when you’re headed to the ocean.
Voice of the Seaurashima tarō (kiritani kenta)
This is a song performed by Kenta Kiritani, who plays Urashima Taro—aka Urachan—from the au Santaro series.
Composed by BEGIN’s Masaru Shimabukuro, it features a distinctive sound that highlights the sanshin and evokes the seas of Okinawa.
You can almost see the commercial’s scene of him singing while gazing at the ocean, and feel the powerful yearning to send his feelings far away.
It’s a straightforward love song that conjures both the grandeur of nature and the purity of emotion.
Sea, That LoveKayama Yūzō
This sea-themed song by Yuzo Kayama was actually included on an album of the same name released in May 1976.
Kayama composed the music himself, with lyrics by Tokiko Iwatani.
It portrays the sea as a “mother,” a presence that soothes a man’s loneliness and emptiness.
With its grand melody and moving lyrics, it’s a masterpiece that resonates with listeners.
It was re-released in March 2002 and has continued to be loved by people across generations.
It’s great for listening while driving, and if you listen while gazing at the sea, you’ll feel the song’s appeal even more.
OCEANB’z
A song themed around the vast ocean that portrays a journey of bonds, love, and hope.
The gently swaying image of the sea symbolizes love and support for a partner who walks the path toward the future together.
It carries a resolve to face any hardship side by side, and listening to it warms the heart.
Released in August 2005, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Umizaru: UMIZARU EVOLUTION.” It has been praised as a track embodying B’z’s signature blend of “grand scale and warmth,” and the production team reportedly offered the commission directly.
It’s a perfect song to play while driving by the ocean or spending quiet moments with someone special.
The Sea and Lemon Tea＝LOVE
From =LOVE, produced by Rino Sashihara, here’s a song where summer scenery intersects with the ache of unrequited love.
Included as a coupling track on the single “Zettai Idol Yamenai de,” released in July 2024, this piece drew attention among fans for featuring Hana Oba as center for a full-group song for the first time.
The memories of a summer gone by and a faint love you can’t forget press upon the heart atop a somewhat wistful melody.
In the music video, the protagonist returns to their hometown and reunites with the senior they once had feelings for, portraying a fleeting summer that rekindles their heart; subtle touches also shine through, such as a poster for the “24th Fireworks Festival,” a nod to Oba’s birthday, decorating the set.
It’s the perfect number for a seaside drive or those moments when you suddenly find yourself feeling nostalgic.