Dive In: 22 Best Songs About the Ocean

Updated at: 14/01/2025

The ocean's vastness and mystery have always inspired artists, and its powerful allure translates beautifully into music. This list isn't just a compilation of catchy tunes; it's a journey through the diverse soundscapes that capture the spirit of the sea, from the melancholic depths to the sun-drenched shores. We've compiled tracks that resonate with the timeless power of the ocean, spanning generations and genres, showcasing how this evocative theme can be explored through a multitude of musical styles. Whether you’re familiar with the iconic melodies of childhood or seeking out new discoveries, prepare to be swept away by the emotional tide.

From the haunting beauty of certain songs that evoke the calm, reflective waters to the high-energy anthems that capture the ocean's untamed power, this carefully curated selection offers a vibrant sonic experience. You'll find familiar classics alongside surprising gems, demonstrating the ocean’s enduring impact on musical creativity. This collection is a testament to the ocean's ability to inspire artists to create truly unforgettable music, a journey that will leave you wanting to explore even more depths of musical expression. This list aims to celebrate these captivating songs and introduce them to a wider audience, inviting you to rediscover the magic of the ocean's endless possibilities.

Dive In: 22 Best Songs About the Ocean
SongArtistAlbumListens
1. Ocean Eyes Billie Eilish 514M+
2. Under the Sea The Little Mermaid (Disney) 366M+
3. Yellow Submarine The Beatles 108M+
4. Island In The Sun Weezer Weezer 75M+
5. Brandy Looking Glass Looking Glass 62M+
6. Orinoco Flow Enya Watermark 61M+
7. Surfin' U.S.A The Beach Boys Surfin' USA (Remastered) 45M+

1. Ocean Eyes

Billie Eilish's "Ocean Eyes" recorded when she was just 14, is a hauntingly beautiful song that deserves a spot on any "best songs about the ocean" list. The lyrics utilize the ocean as a potent metaphor for intense emotional depth, describing feelings of being overwhelmed and captivated ("falling into your ocean eyes"). The recurring imagery of "ocean eyes" evokes the vastness and mystery of the sea, mirroring the overwhelming nature of the love described. Musically, the song's mellow tempo and ethereal instrumentation, combined with Eilish's uniquely expressive vocals, create a mood of both wonder and vulnerability, perfectly mirroring the turbulent yet captivating experience of deep emotion. The song's power lies in its ability to translate complex internal landscapes into the universally understood imagery of the ocean's depths, making it a truly exceptional track.

If you're a fan of Billie Eilish's ethereal vocals and the dreamlike atmosphere of "Ocean Eyes" you'll love exploring the ocean-inspired pop sounds in our 20 best coffee bar music playlist songs . From soothing melodies to uplifting anthems, this playlist is perfect for a relaxing afternoon in a cozy coffee bar.
Ocean Eyes - Billie Eilish

2. Under the Sea - 1989

"Under the Sea" from Disney's The Little Mermaid, is more than a children's tune; it's an immersive ocean experience. The lyrics paint vivid imagery of vibrant coral, playful sea creatures, and the boundless expanse of the underwater world, creating a sense of wonder and joy. The song's upbeat tempo and calypso rhythm, enhanced by lively instrumentation, mimic the ocean's playful energy and rhythmic waves. The carefree lyrics, focusing on the simple pleasures of life under the sea, directly contrast the anxieties of the surface world, evoking a feeling of blissful escape. This infectious melody and its evocative portrayal of the ocean's beauty and vibrancy solidify its place among the best songs about the ocean, making it a perfect addition to any beach-themed playlist.

If you're looking for more upbeat tunes to keep the party going, check out our Top 30 best beach bar music playlist songs , which features a lively collection of beach bar favorites guaranteed to lift your spirits and get you grooving in no time.
Under the Sea - The Little Mermaid (Disney)

3. Yellow Submarine (1966)

Released in 1966, The Beatles' "Yellow Submarine" is a whimsical journey into a vibrant underwater world. The lyrics, filled with playful imagery of a submarine cruising beneath the waves, directly evoke the ocean's vastness and mystery. The song's buoyant melody, driven by a jaunty tempo and punctuated by playful instrumentation, mirrors the ocean's rhythmic ebb and flow. The bright, almost cartoonish sound creates a feeling of carefree adventure, while still hinting at the ocean’s depth and unexplored wonders. Its enduring popularity and unique blend of childlike wonder and imaginative storytelling cement its place among the best songs about the ocean, offering a timeless and unforgettable auditory experience.

Yellow Submarine - The Beatles

4. Island In The Sun (Weezer)

Weezer's "Island in the Sun" a standout track from their 2001 Green Album, is a quintessential summer anthem and a compelling entry in the best songs about the ocean. The lyrics evoke a sense of idyllic escape, painting vivid imagery of sun-drenched shores and tranquil waters. While not explicitly mentioning ocean events, the song's carefree melody and repeated "island" motif create a powerful metaphorical connection to the ocean's vastness and peacefulness. Musically, the upbeat tempo and bright instrumentation, anchored by a memorable guitar riff, mirror the feeling of warm ocean breezes and gentle waves. Its enduring popularity and uplifting mood cement its place among the best songs capturing the ocean's tranquil beauty and the escape it promises.

Island In The Sun - Weezer

5. Brandy (Looking Glass - 1972)

Haven't heard Looking Glass's "Brandy (You're a Fine Girl)"? Prepare to be swept away. Released in 1972, this iconic track topped the Billboard charts, captivating listeners with its evocative storytelling. The song paints a vivid picture of Brandy, a barmaid in a bustling seaport, yearning for a sailor whose heart belongs to the ocean. Its timeless appeal transcends generations, resonating with listeners who connect with the themes of longing and the enduring power of love, making it a perfect addition to any retro dance playlist. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its simple yet powerful narrative and unforgettable melody.

If you're in the mood for more 70s vibes, be sure to check out our Best of 25 Retro Dance Playlist for bar for a playlist of classic dance tunes that will have you grooving all night long. From disco to funk to soul, we've got all your favorite 70s hits covered.
Brandy - Looking Glass
  • Orinoco Flow
    6

    Orinoco Flow

    Enya

    1988

    Watermark

  • Surfin' U.S.A
    7

    Surfin' U.S.A

    The Beach Boys

    1963

    Surfin' USA (Remastered)

  • Surfin' Bird
    8

    Surfin' Bird

    The Trashmen

    1963

  • Under the Boardwalk
    9

    Under the Boardwalk

    The Drifters

    1964

  • Beyond the Sea
    10

    Beyond the Sea

    Bobby Darin

    1959

  • Southern Cross
    11

    Southern Cross

    Crosby, Stills, Nash

    1981

  • Sailing
    12

    Sailing

    Christopher Cross

    1980

    Christopher Cross

  • Sea of Love
    13

    Sea of Love

    The National

    2010

  • The Ocean
    14

    The Ocean

    Led Zeppelin

    1973

    Houses of the Holy (Remaster)

  • The Tide Is High
    15

    The Tide Is High

    Blondie

    1980

    Parallel Lines

  • Down by the Water
    16

    Down by the Water

    The Drums

    2010

  • Only the Ocean
    17

    Only the Ocean

    Jack Johnson

    2010

  • Sea of Love
    18

    Sea of Love

    Phil Phillips

    1959

  • Across the Sea
    19

    Across the Sea

    Weezer

    1996

  • A Pirate Looks At Forty
    20

    A Pirate Looks At Forty

    Jimmy Buffett

    1978

    A-1-A

  • Rockaway Beach
    21

    Rockaway Beach

    Ramones

    1977

  • Redondo Beach
    22

    Redondo Beach

    Patti Smith

    1975