Why do we love shows like The Summer I Turned Pretty anyway? It’s not just the plot—it’s the vibe. It’s summer, it’s messy, and it’s so achingly nostalgic it hurts a little. You want that same feeling of being a teenager with your whole life ahead, but also totally confused about romance.
Think of it as a sensory escape. You want the sun, the beach, the cute house, and the music that makes every scene feel ten times more important. It’s basically emotional comfort food for the soul.
If You Love the Love Triangle: The Vampire Diaries (Yes, Really)
I know, I know—vampires? Stay with me. The core of The Summer I Turned Pretty is the push-pull between two brothers. Sound familiar? Damon and Stefan Salvatore invented the “which brother should I pick?” game. It’s got the same will-they-won’t-they tension, but with a supernatural twist.
Plus, the setting of Mystic Falls feels just as cozy and atmospheric as Cousins Beach. You get epic music moments and a girl who’s caught between two very different, very intense guys. It’s like Belly’s story, but with fangs and a lot more eyeliner.
For the Sisterhood & Friendship Vibe: Gilmore Girls
This is the “chill on the couch with a mug of coffee” pick. Gilmore Girls has the same fast-talking, emotionally rich family drama. The relationship between Lorelai and Rory is basically the heart of the show, just like Belly’s bond with her mom and Susannah.
It’s not a beach show, but it is a town show. You’ll get swoony guys (hello, Jess and Logan), big life decisions, and a whole lot of heart. If Belly and her mom had a coffee shop, this would be their life.
'The Summer I Turned Pretty' Season 3 Release Schedule Revealed
Need More Beach Drama? Try Outer Banks
This one cranks up the action, but keeps the summer vibes maxed out. Instead of a love triangle between brothers, you get a treasure hunt with your best friends. The chemistry between John B and Sarah is just as intense, and the setting is pure North Carolina paradise.
It’s less about romantic angst and more about survival and found family. But the feeling of being young and fiercely loyal? That’s the same. Think of it as Belly and the gang if they decided to hunt for gold instead of going to the beach bonfire.
The “Messy, Realistic Teen” Experience: My So-Called Life
If you loved the raw, awkward internal monologue of Belly, you’ll adore Angela Chase. This show is a time capsule of pure 90s teenage angst, and it nails the feeling of being completely misunderstood. There’s no flashy summer house—just a high school hallway that feels like the whole universe.
The love triangle here is more subtle, but just as painful. It’s for when you want the emotional depth without the frills. It’s the “let’s get real about being a teenager” pick.
Prime Video: The Summer I Turned Pretty - Seizoen 1
For the Musical Score & Aesthetic: Love, Simon (the TV show, Love, Victor)
The music in The Summer I Turned Pretty is basically a character. Love, Victor has that same perfectly curated, indie-pop soundtrack. It’s warm, it’s funny, and it’s all about finding yourself while navigating high school love.
Victor’s journey is different from Belly’s, but the feeling of being nervous around your crush is universal. It’s sweet, it’s sincere, and it’ll make you smile through the tears. It’s the glass of lemonade next to Belly’s root beer float.
