Grab your sunglasses and floppy hat, and get ready to settle in for a beach read on your next getaway! There are few things more relaxing than a day spent in a beach chair with the sound of waves as your background noise. Not sure where to start with all the books that are out there? We have you covered.  

Florida Favorites

  • “To Have and Have Not” by Ernest Hemingway

Although it’s not his most famous work of fiction, this story captures an exciting essence of Hemingway’s Florida. Set in Key West, “To Have and Have Not” follows a fishing boat captain who is down on his luck and turns to more dangerous methods of providing for his family. Filled with Hemingway’s signature simplistic storytelling, this is another book that’s best consumed by the sea.

  • “For Those I Love” by Kathy Stickney

Ormond Beach resident and Florida native Kathy Stickney has about 25 years of genealogy research backing up her 2016 book — so you can count on factual and historical accuracy. The story relates the true experiences of the author’s ancestors during the Civil War — in a story of family, faith and the aguish of war. The author is a member of the Halifax Genealogical Society, has been a genealogical speaker and has published several articles. Soak in local history from a new perspective!

  • “Hidden Truths” by Jeff Boyle

Hear from yet another Ormond Beach local in this collection of 16 short stories by award-winning writer Jeff Boyle, whose  words read as beautifully and breezy as a bicycle ride on the beach. Absorb a range of tales that share a common theme of personal revelation, compassion, detailed scenery and a dash of humor. This collection of short stories is especially ideal for those readers who don’t wish to commit to an entire novel during their vacation!

Venture to downtown Daytona Beach to pick out a local favorite at Abraxas Bookstore, Halifax Historical Museum or Cinematique Theater – all within walking distance of each other on Beach Street.  Marvel at ceiling high shelves and stacks upon stacks of used books at Abraxas, a local used book retailer. Venture to the museum just a few doors down, absorb the local history and find an array of books by local authors, including Harold Caldwell, Mark Lane, Dr. Nancy Long, Dan Smith and Alice Norris Strickland. Stop into the area’s only independent movie house and there on the counter you’ll find the newly released book, "Cuban Roots", by Michael A. Pyle.

An aerial view of Daytona Beach with bright blue water and blue and yellow umbrellas

Past Favorites (That Never Get Old)

  • “Murder on the Orient Express” by Agatha Christie

For a classic whodunit that stands the test of time, Agatha Christie never fails. Join Hercule Poirot aboard a luxurious train with a range of curious characters — a murderer among them. Uncover the mystery during your next beach trip!

  • “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman

A grump, a grouch, a curmudgeon — no matter what you first think of Ove, you’ll fall in love with this grumbly ol’ gentleman whether you want to or not. Fredrik Backman, a Swedish writer, blogger and now New York Times #1 bestselling author, offers a story so touching and pure that your heart just may burst. Equal parts comedy, humanity and heartbreak, “A Man Called Ove” is, quite frankly, the perfect book.

  • “Where’d You Go, Bernadette?” by Maria Semple

Quirky, unpredictable and — ultimately — missing, Bernadette Fox is an unforgettable fictional character who will have you belly-laughing one moment and wiping away a tear in the next. Written with a sharp understanding of the world we currently move in, this book’s unique format and memorable story make it a must-read.

Did you find a beach read that piques your interest? Great! The only step left is to book your beach getaway today. Happy reading!