My 10 Favorite Beach Boys Songs, Ranked

With summer upon us, there really is nothing quite like cranking up the Beach Boys on the car stereo and heading toward the coast. And no Beach Boys song exists without Brian Wilson, founding member and musical innovator of legend. Here are my top 10 favorite Beach Boys songs.

#10 “God Only Knows” (Pet Sounds) 

This fan favorite from 1966’s Pet Sounds is somewhat of a deep cut, showcasing The Beach Boys’ musical and lyrical depth beyond summer-surf songs. Its execution and the supporting vocal harmonies are masterful. 

#9: “Barbara Ann” (Beach Boys’ Party!)

Originally written by Fred Assert and recorded by the Regents in 1961, “Barbara Ann” sizzles with The Beach Boys’ vocals, courtesy of Dean Torrance of Jan and Dean and Brian Wilson. Just try to keep yourself from singing “Ba-Ba-Babra-Ann” when you hear it. We’ll wait. 

#8: “Good Vibrations” (Smiley Smile)

This whimsical, organ-drenched song — with its hypnotic harmonies and a dash of theremin — is ahead of its time, to the credit of Brian Wilson. Released in 1967, it has one foot in the surfer California realm and another in the psychedelic, late1960s Woodstock era.  

#7: “I Get Around” (All Summer Long) 

With one of the best and most memorable musical hooks in rock n’ roll history, “I Get Around” is legend. The sweet vocal harmonies and wholesome, feel-good vibes make this 1964 tune forever perfect for poolside romps with the kiddos, too. 

#6: “Kokomo” (Still Cruisin’)

This is a bit of a controversial pick, and not a Brian Wilson song. It’s also hated by a lot of critics for various reasons. But for me, the mix of calypso and steel drums and breathy intro takes me to that beachfront escape inside my head. Also, there’s that cool, unexpected sax. I still haven’t seen the late ‘80s flick Cocktail, which made this song top the Billboard charts in 1988. But I don’t need to, because the little place called Kokomo, and a tropical drink in my hand, is enough for me.

#5: “Fun, Fun, Fun” (Shut Down Volume 2)

With its frolicking guitar licks and rebel-teen vibes, this 1964 song is a favorite of my ‘80s childhood — a throwback to my parents’ youth — that offers feel-good rock n’ roll at its best. Ever since I first heard it, I’ve dreamed of driving off with a T-Bird.

#4: “Surfer Girl” (Surfer Girl)

A dreamy, pop-rock hit that’s a throwback to 1950s proms and doo-wop slow dances. As the song moves along, Brian Wilson’s sweet crooning, “Do you love me, do you, surfer girl?” Makes hearts melt everywhere.

#3: “California Girls” (Summer Days)

Written by Brian Wilson and Mike Love, the 1965 hit “California Girls” is a theme for the ages, celebrating American beauty in all its diversity. It’s fun, catchy, and timeless.

#2: “Wouldn’t it Be Nice” (Pet Sounds)

I didn’t hear this 1966 song until seeing the heartwarming Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler movie 50 First Dates, and now my heart melts every time I hear it. It’s upbeat, cozy, and amazingly layered instrumentation — showcasing the band’s musical evolution fueled by Brian Wilson steering the ship. 

#1: “Surfin’ USA” (Surfin’ USA)

This 1962 hit is the quintessential surf song, as recognizable as “Miserlou” and the sound of crashing waves. The vocals and freewheeling vibes are saturated with sunshine, and defined the 1960s SoCal sound that so many bands that followed tried to emulate.