Classic Western songs about the sea: recommended popular tracks
The sea, so beloved that it’s often called the “mother ocean,” can at times be terrifying as well—it’s a vast presence in our lives.
From the cheerful image of summer vacations to the fierce waves that evoke the harshness of winter, the sea has long been a source of inspiration and a theme for many artists.
In this article, we’ve picked out famous hits, popular tracks, and hidden gems in Western music that center on the theme of the sea!
You’ll find not only songs that sing directly about the ocean, but also tracks about passionate seaside romances and songs that use the sea as a metaphor—we’ve researched from a wide range of angles, so you just might discover an unexpected classic.
Enjoy!
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Classic Western songs about the sea: Recommended popular tracks (21–30)
SUMMER PARADISE feat. Taka from ONE OK ROCKSimple Plan
An open, summery pop-punk number set against a seaside backdrop has come to life through a collaboration between Canada’s Simple Plan and Taka from Japan’s ONE OK ROCK.
Released first in Japan in March 2013 as a special version of a track from the 2011 album “Get Your Heart On!,” the song charms with a breezy sound that weaves in elements of reggae and ska punk.
Inspired by vocalist Pierre Bouvier’s love of surfing, the track centers on themes of relaxed moments by the ocean and summertime memories—making it a perfect fit for summer drives, beach trips, and festivals.
On The SeaBeach House
Beach House is the musical duo consisting of Victoria Legrand and Alex Scally.
When talking about songs of the sea, their “On the Sea” is essential.
This track portrays the ocean’s grandeur, strength, and gentleness.
It tenderly sings of how the sea belongs to no one, is equal to everyone, and is a friend to us humans.
It also seems perfect as background music for relaxing by the seaside, and is recommended for times when you feel lonely and want to be soothed.
Classic Western songs about the sea: Recommended popular tracks (31–40)
Under The SeaThe Little Mermaid
Disney’s hugely popular film The Little Mermaid, based on The Little Mermaid fairy tale.
In one scene from this 1989 release, “Under the Sea” is sung to keep Ariel, the protagonist who longs for the human world, from leaving the ocean by extolling the wonders of life under the sea.
With its cheerful melody and lyrics proclaiming that “the fish in the sea are happy,” it’s a song that perfectly suits the ocean.
To The SeaJack Johnson
Jack Johnson is an American singer-songwriter.
The title track of his fifth album is “To The Sea.” It’s a song that portrays a father trying to take his son to the ocean in the summer.
The sea serves as a metaphor for the unknown and for dreams, carrying a message that encourages facing challenges without fear.
The album includes many other sea-themed songs as well, so why not give them a listen together? You might discover a different story when you listen all the way through.
KokomoThe Beach Boys
The upbeat song “Kokomo” makes you feel like you’re in a resort.
It was released in 1988 by The Beach Boys, the original vocal group beloved in America.
Kokomo refers to a resort in Fiji, and in the film “Cocktail” starring Tom Cruise, where the song was used as the theme, resort locations in Latin America that evoke Kokomo appear.
The romantic story that unfolds there perfectly embodies the song itself.
It’s a track that will make you want to go on vacation.
VacationThe Go-Go’s
A song written by the Go-Go’s three main songwriters—Kathy Valentine, Jane Wiedlin, and Charlotte Caffey.
It’s about a summer romance and has been used in many forms of media, including The Simpsons and the film Fahrenheit 9/11.
Ocean DriveDuke Dumont
Ocean Drive is a song about a complicated relationship, set to a cool, 80s-style sound.
It was released in 2015 by UK DJ Duke Dumont.
Although uncredited, the vocals are said to be by British singer-songwriter Boy Matthews.
The track was reportedly inspired by the 2011 film Drive starring Ryan Gosling, and those who have seen the movie may especially grasp the song’s atmosphere.
With its sense of speed, it’s a track that seems perfect for elevating a seaside drive in style!