If you enjoyed watching The Summer I Turned Pretty on Prime Video, you might be looking for similar shows. This popular series is known for its summer beach setting, love triangles, and coming-of-age stories. Many other TV shows offer the same mix of romance, drama, and youthful adventure. Here are 11 great options to consider for your next binge-watch.
These shows feature similar themes like summer romance, family secrets, and the challenges of growing up. Some are classic series that defined the teen drama genre. Others are newer releases that have quickly become fan favorites. They are available on various streaming platforms including Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video.
Dawson’s Creek
Dawson’s Creek is often considered the classic teen drama that inspired many later series. It is set in a small coastal town in Massachusetts. The show focuses on the lives of a group of friends as they navigate high school and relationships. It features a famous love triangle between the main characters Dawson, Joey, and Pacey. Many viewers compare the setting of Capeside to the Cousins Beach from The Summer I Turned Pretty. The series launched the careers of actors like Katie Holmes and Michelle Williams.
The Vampire Diaries
The Vampire Diaries is a supernatural drama that includes a compelling love story. The main character, Elena Gilbert, finds herself in a love triangle with two vampire brothers, Stefan and Damon Salvatore. This dynamic is similar to Belly’s relationship with the Fisher brothers. The show blends romance, fantasy, and small-town mysteries. It became a cultural phenomenon during its eight-season run. Fans of complex relationships and dramatic storytelling will likely enjoy this series.
Outer Banks
Outer Banks is an action-adventure series set in the coastal region of North Carolina. It follows a group of teenagers who get involved in a treasure hunt. The show features summer vibes, romantic subplots, and strong friendships. While it has more adventure than The Summer I Turned Pretty, it shares the same beachy atmosphere. The social divide between the wealthy “Kooks” and working-class “Pogues” adds drama to the story. The series is very popular on Netflix.
Never Have I Ever
Never Have I Ever is a coming-of-age comedy-drama created by Mindy Kaling. It tells the story of Devi Vishwakumar, an Indian-American teenager dealing with the death of her father. The show explores her grief, high school life, and her own love triangle between two boys. Like The Summer I Turned Pretty, it deals with themes of loss and growing up. The series received praise for its representation and humor. It is available to stream on Netflix.
My Life with the Walter Boys
My Life with the Walter Boys is a Netflix series that shares many similarities with The Summer I Turned Pretty. The story follows Jackie Howard, a teenager who moves to Colorado after her family dies in an accident. She lives with a family friend who has ten sons. Jackie soon finds herself in a love triangle with two of the brothers. The show explores grief, new beginnings, and romantic confusion. It is based on a novel by Ali Novak.
XO, Kitty
XO, Kitty is another series created by Jenny Han, the author of The Summer I Turned Pretty. It is a spin-off of the To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before movies. The show focuses on Kitty Song Covey, Lara Jean’s younger sister. She travels to South Korea to attend a boarding school and reunite with her long-distance boyfriend. The series features a new love triangle and explores themes of identity and cultural connection. It is a charming and lighthearted watch on Netflix.
Gilmore Girls
Gilmore Girls is a beloved dramedy set in the small town of Stars Hollow, Connecticut. It centers on the close relationship between mother Lorelai and daughter Rory Gilmore. The show features witty dialogue, charming side characters, and several romantic storylines for Rory. Similar to The Summer I Turned Pretty, it has a strong sense of place and explores family dynamics. The love triangles and coming-of-age elements will appeal to fans of Jenny Han’s series.
One Tree Hill
One Tree Hill is a classic teen drama that ran for nine seasons. It is set in the fictional town of Tree Hill, North Carolina. The story begins with the rivalry between two half-brothers, Lucas and Nathan Scott. The show is known for its basketball backdrop, romantic entanglements, and iconic soundtrack. It delves into themes of family, friendship, and overcoming challenges. Fans of emotional storytelling and complex characters will enjoy this series.
The O.C.
The O.C. is a iconic teen drama that defined the early 2000s. It takes place in the wealthy community of Newport Beach, California. The story follows Ryan Atwood, a troubled teen from the wrong side of the tracks, who is taken in by a wealthy family. The series is filled with soapy drama, romantic relationships, and class conflicts. Its sunny California setting provides a similar vibe to the coastal summers in The Summer I Turned Pretty.
Ginny & Georgia
Ginny & Georgia is a Netflix series that mixes family drama with teen issues. It follows a young mother, Georgia, and her two children, Ginny and Austin, as they move to a new town for a fresh start. The show explores their complicated past and the challenges they face fitting in. Ginny navigates high school friendships and romantic relationships. While it deals with darker topics, its focus on family and growing up will resonate with many viewers.
Sex Education
Sex Education is a British comedy-drama that focuses on the lives of teenagers at Moordale Secondary School. The main character, Otis Milburn, starts an underground sex therapy clinic with his friend Maeve. The show is celebrated for its honest approach to relationships, identity, and mental health. It features a variety of romantic storylines and personal struggles. Its blend of humor and heart makes it a great choice for fans of character-driven stories.
One fan on social media said, “I started watching The Summer I Turned Pretty because I love a good love triangle. I stayed for the beautiful setting and the relatable characters.”
Another viewer commented, “Shows like Dawson’s Creek and The O.C. have the same nostalgic feeling. They make you remember your own summers and first loves.”
Also Read: The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 Episode 8 Release Date and Time and What to Expect Next
Credits: Harper’s BAZAAR, Collider, Digital Spy
