Series Similar To The Summer I Turned Pretty

Okay, let's be real for a second. If you binge-watched The Summer I Turned Pretty and then just sat there staring at the screen like "um, what do I even do now?" — you're not alone. That show has this magical way of pulling you in with its sunshine, its heartbreak, and that nerve-wracking love triangle that keeps you up past midnight.

If you're hunting for your next obsession, you've landed in the right place. Think of this like a friend who just finished the best book ever and immediately hands you five more recommendations. Ready? Let's dive in.

Shows That Give You That Same Warm, Gut-Punch Feeling

First up is Heartstopper. It's set in an English school and follows Nick and Charlie as they slowly fall for each other through the most adorable moments imaginable. You know that butterfly-in-your-stomach feeling from middle school? This show bottles it up perfectly.

What makes Heartstopper so special is how gentle it is with its characters. Nobody is reduced to a villain or a stereotype. It's the kind of show that makes you think of your own awkward school days and smile instead of cringe.

Nothing But Summer Vibes

If the beach setting is a big part of why you loved The Summer I Turned Pretty, then Outer Banks is your next vacation without the suitcase. It's full of ocean air, secret drama, and a group of friends so close-knit they'd do absolutely anything for each other. There's even a love triangle that will have you picking sides and then changing your mind five times.

It's honestly like watching those chaotic summer road trips with your best friends — except with way more danger involved. Perfect when you want that adrenaline mixed with romance energy.

The Summer I Turned Pretty: Skip It or Stream It?

And then there's the absolute classic: Gossip Girl. Though it's definitely more dramatic than cozy, it nails the rich-kids-in-New-York drama that some people secretly crave. If you ever wondered what a love triangle looks like when everyone lives in a penthouse, this is it.

Coming-of-Age Stories That Stay With You

One of the things people adore about The Summer I Turned Pretty is how realistic it feels about growing up. Never Have I Ever captures that same raw, messy energy of figuring yourself out as a teenager. Mindy Kaling created something funny, heartbreaking, and incredibly relatable — kind of like overhearing your own thoughts spoken out loud.

The show tackles grief, identity, first love, and embarrassing moments in a way that never feels like it's lecturing you. It's like sitting at your kitchen table with your sister, watching the show and going "ugh, SAME."

Where Friendship Meets First Love

The Baby-Sitters Club on Netflix might sound like it's for a younger crowd, but don't let that fool you. It's full of heart, real friendships, and lessons about loyalty that honestly some adults could learn from. You'll fall in love with each character the same way you fell for Belly — one episode at a time.

15 Shows To Watch If You Liked The Summer I Turned Pretty

There's something deeply comforting about stories where the friendship is just as important as the romance. It reminds you that growing up isn't just about finding someone to love.

For something a little more intense but equally emotional, try Everyone's Talking About Jamie. It's a story about self-expression, acceptance, and the courage it takes to be exactly who you are. It hits different when you watch it on a rough day, trust me.

Weirdly Perfect Pairings You Might Not Expect

You might not think about Never Let Me Go when searching for light-hearted teen shows, but stick with me here. It's got youthful longing, bittersweet love, and that feeling of summer that will never quite come back. It's heavier, sure, but sometimes you want to cry a little — you know?

Enjoying The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 on Prime Video? Catch more

On a completely different note, Emily in Paris offers the same wish-fulfillment fantasy of a new life somewhere exciting. It's colorful, romantic, and packed with will-they-won't-they tension that will keep you glued to your couch.

And if you grew up watching Gilmore Girls, you already know the magic of a show that makes you laugh and feel deep emotions in the same fifteen minutes. It's comfort television at its absolute finest.

The Real Reason We Love These Shows

At the end of the day, series like The Summer I Turned Pretty remind us of something simple: life at its most beautiful — and painful — is worth telling stories about. We crave these narratives because they mirror our own imperfect, wonderful lives.

Whether you need something goofy, heartbreaking, or just a little wholesome, there's something on this list for every mood. So grab your favorite snack, settle into your couch, and find your new binge-watch — your future favorite show is waiting.