Have you ever felt that bittersweet summer vibe where everything feels magical, but also kind of complicated? Well, "The Summer I Turned Pretty" captures that feeling perfectly. It’s a show that blends romance, family drama, and self-discovery in ways that make it hard not to binge-watch. But what if you’re craving more of that warm, nostalgic energy? Fear not, my friend! There are plenty of shows similar to "The Summer I Turned Pretty" that will keep your heart racing and your eyes glued to the screen.
If you’re here, chances are you’ve already fallen in love with Belly, Conrad, Jeremiah, and the rest of the Crewes. You’re probably looking for something just as captivating, right? Lucky for you, there’s a treasure trove of series out there that offer the same mix of drama, humor, and heartfelt moments. So grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let’s explore some amazing alternatives.
Whether you’re searching for beachy vibes, coming-of-age stories, or just plain old romance, this list has got you covered. Let’s dive into the world of shows that’ll remind you why summers can be both beautiful and messy—just like life itself.
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Why "The Summer I Turned Pretty" Stands Out
Before we jump into the recommendations, let’s take a moment to appreciate why "The Summer I Turned Pretty" is such a gem. Based on Jenny Han’s beloved book series, this Amazon Prime Original brings all the feels to life. The show masterfully balances lighthearted moments with deeper themes like identity, friendship, and love. Plus, who can resist the stunning coastal backdrop and those dreamy male leads?
Table of Contents
- Biography of the Creator
- "Gilmore Girls": A Quirky Take on Family and Romance
- "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend": When Love Gets Complicated
- "Dawson's Creek": The OG Teen Drama
- "The Wilds": Survival Meets Romance
- "Never Have I Ever": Indian-American Teen Angst
- "One Day at a Time": Modern Family Drama
- "Outer Banks": Pirates of the Present
- "Big Little Lies": Grown-Up Secrets and Lies
- "Bridgerton": Historical Romance with a Twist
- "You": Dark but Irresistible
- Final Thoughts: What’s Next?
Biography of the Creator: Jenny Han
Let’s give a shout-out to the mastermind behind "The Summer I Turned Pretty"—Jenny Han. This talented author has been crafting stories that tug at our heartstrings for years. She’s not just a writer; she’s a storyteller who understands the complexities of adolescence and human relationships.
Jenny Han's Journey
Full Name | Jenny Han |
---|---|
Birth Date | 1977 |
Known For | "The Summer I Turned Pretty," "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" |
Genre | Young Adult Fiction |
Awards | New York Times Bestselling Author |
Her works often revolve around themes of identity, love, and growing up, making them relatable to readers and viewers alike. If you haven’t checked out her other books, now’s the perfect time!
"Gilmore Girls": A Quirky Take on Family and Romance
Step into the charming town of Stars Hollow, where Lorelai and Rory Gilmore navigate life, love, and everything in between. While "Gilmore Girls" may have premiered over two decades ago, its wit and warmth remain timeless. Like "The Summer I Turned Pretty," this series explores the dynamics of family relationships while sprinkling in plenty of romance.
What Makes It Similar?
- Strong female protagonists
- Wholesome yet complicated family ties
- Witty dialogue that keeps you hooked
With its blend of humor and heartfelt moments, "Gilmore Girls" is a must-watch for fans of "The Summer I Turned Pretty."
"Crazy Ex-Girlfriend": When Love Gets Complicated
Now, here’s a show that takes the concept of love and turns it upside down. "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" follows Rebecca Bunch, a successful lawyer who uproots her life to follow an old flame. Sound intense? It is—and that’s exactly what makes it so compelling.
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Why Fans Will Love It
- It tackles mental health issues with sensitivity and humor
- Features catchy musical numbers that add a unique twist
- Explores the complexities of relationships in ways that feel refreshingly real
While it’s darker than "The Summer I Turned Pretty," it still resonates with anyone who’s ever been caught up in the whirlwind of love.
"Dawson's Creek": The OG Teen Drama
Back in the late '90s and early 2000s, "Dawson's Creek" was the ultimate teen drama. Centered around Dawson, Joey, and Pacey, this series paved the way for countless others by exploring themes of love, friendship, and identity. Sound familiar? Yep, it’s basically the predecessor to shows like "The Summer I Turned Pretty."
Key Highlights
- Iconic love triangles
- Beautiful coastal settings
- Emotional storylines that stick with you long after the credits roll
If nostalgia is your thing, give this classic a spin.
"The Wilds": Survival Meets Romance
For those who crave a little adventure with their drama, "The Wilds" is the perfect fit. This Amazon Original follows a group of teenage girls stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. As they struggle to survive, their personal relationships come to the forefront.
Why It’s a Match
- Focuses on female empowerment and resilience
- Blends survival elements with heartfelt moments
- Keeps you guessing with unexpected twists
Think of it as "The Summer I Turned Pretty" meets "Lost"—a recipe for binge-worthy entertainment.
"Never Have I Ever": Indian-American Teen Angst
Created by Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher, "Never Have I Ever" tells the story of Devi Vishwakumar, a high school sophomore navigating first love, cultural identity, and grief. While it’s set in a suburban California high school rather than a beach town, it shares the same emotional depth as "The Summer I Turned Pretty."
What Sets It Apart
- Explores diverse cultural experiences
- Combines humor with heartfelt moments
- Features a strong, relatable protagonist
It’s like a modern-day update to the classic coming-of-age story.
"One Day at a Time": Modern Family Drama
This Netflix series reimagines the classic sitcom "One Day at a Time" with a Cuban-American family. Led by Penelope Alvarez, a single mother and army veteran, the show delves into topics like PTSD, immigration, and LGBTQ+ rights—all while keeping things light and funny.
Why Fans Will Connect
- Focuses on family dynamics and support systems
- Addresses important social issues with care
- Keeps you laughing even during the tough moments
It’s a show that reminds us how important it is to lean on loved ones during life’s ups and downs.
"Outer Banks": Pirates of the Present
Another Amazon Prime hit, "Outer Banks" follows a group of teens in North Carolina’s Outer Banks as they search for a long-lost treasure. Sounds fun, right? But it’s not all sunshine and sand—there’s plenty of drama, romance, and mystery to keep you invested.
Why It’s Worth Watching
- Beautiful coastal scenery (hello, beach vibes!)
- Engaging plotlines that keep you guessing
- Relatable characters dealing with real-world problems
It’s basically "The Summer I Turned Pretty" with pirates—and who wouldn’t want that?
"Big Little Lies": Grown-Up Secrets and Lies
Moving into slightly more mature territory, "Big Little Lies" explores the lives of three women in Monterey, California. What starts as a seemingly perfect suburban existence unravels into a web of secrets, scandals, and scandals. Think of it as "The Summer I Turned Pretty" for adults.
Why It’s Compelling
- Stellar performances from A-list actresses
- Twists and turns that keep you on edge
- Themes of friendship and loyalty that hit close to home
It’s a show that proves age doesn’t dull the drama.
"Bridgerton": Historical Romance with a Twist
Step back in time to Regency-era England with "Bridgerton," a Netflix sensation that reimagines historical romance. With its opulent costumes, scandalous gossip, and steamy scenes, it’s a feast for the senses. Like "The Summer I Turned Pretty," it’s all about love, family, and societal expectations.
What Makes It Unique
- Diverse casting that challenges traditional narratives
- Rich period detail that transports you to another era
- Strong female characters who refuse to be defined by convention
It’s a perfect choice if you’re in the mood for something a little different.
"You": Dark but Irresistible
Now, here’s where things get a little… twisted. "You" follows Joe Goldberg, a bookstore manager with a serious case of obsessive love. While it’s definitely not for the faint of heart, it’s impossible to look away. Think of it as the dark side of "The Summer I Turned Pretty"—what happens when love goes too far?
Why It’s Addictive
- Keeps you on edge with its unpredictable twists
- Explores the darker side of human nature
- Features a magnetic antihero you love to hate
It’s a show that proves sometimes the bad boys are the ones worth watching.
Final Thoughts: What’s Next?
There you have it—a comprehensive list of shows similar to "The Summer I Turned Pretty." From quirky family dramas to dark psychological thrillers, there’s something here for every type of viewer. Whether you’re in the mood for wholesome romance or intense drama, these series promise to deliver the goods.
So what are you waiting for? Dive into one (or all) of these recommendations and let the binge-watching begin. And hey, don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below. Which show are you most excited to watch? Or maybe you have another favorite that deserves a mention? Let’s keep the conversation going!
Oh, and before you go, why not explore some of our other articles? We’ve got tons of content designed to entertain, inform, and inspire. See you soon, and happy streaming!


