The sun has set on season three of “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” and fans are already bracing for the upcoming movie, said to be coming out in 2026 at the earliest. The romance doesn’t stop at Cousins Beach, though. If you’re craving more love triangles, family drama and cozy friendships, look no further for some shows and movies to add to your watchlist.
Dawson’s Creek (1998-2003)
Following the lives of a New England friend group, “Dawson’s Creek” has all of the adolescent melodrama you’ve gotten from “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” The show centers on Dawson Leery, a young aspiring filmmaker, and his best friends Joey Potter and Pacey Witter as they grow through high school and college. Appealing to fans of the beachside drama, the show has tropes including childhood friends to lovers, love triangles (yes, multiple) and second chance romance.
Upgraded (2024)
“Upgraded,” starring Camila Mendes and Archie Renaux, is a charming romcom about a New York City art intern who meets a handsome stranger when she is upgraded to first class on a flight. In an effort to impress him, she spins a web of lies about her life, which become the basis of a whirlwind romance. This Cinderella retelling is sure to give you all of the Belly-abroad vibes as Mendes’ character explores London while falling in love.
Love, Rosie (2014)
“Love, Rosie” is a love story about childhood best friends that spans over decades, not entirely dissimilar to Belly and Conrad’s. If you couldn’t help but love the “will they, won’t they” of season three, you’re sure to enjoy this frustratingly loveable flick.
My Life With The Walter Boys (2023-)
I would be remiss to not mention “My Life With the Walter Boys,” the hit Netflix series following a teen as she moves to Colorado, navigating grief, adolescence and a tense love triangle with two brothers. The series was originally published on Wattpad and it is every bit as cringey but addicting as it sounds. If you swap out Cousins Beach for the mountains, you’ve got Jackie, Alex and Cole as replacements for Belly, Jeremiah and Conrad.
Past Lives (2024)
This film meditates on how people become entangled in each other’s lives over the span of 24 years. Similar to Belly and Conrad’s motif of infinity, “Past Lives” focuses on fate and the permanence of a first love. If you’re obsessed with men who yearn, you should move this flick up your watchlist.
Crush (2022)
“Crush” is the definition of a messy love triangle. Set in high school, the movie’s main character, Paige, is forced to join the track team, which her crush is a part of. The longer she is on the team, though, the more she starts to fall for another teammate. The twist? Her two love interests are twin sisters. Just as messy as the summer series, Crush brings us on a journey of self-discovery, friendship and sisterhood.
The Buccaneers (2023-)
“The Buccaneers,” though taking place in the 1870s, may be just what you’re in the mood for while waiting for “The Summer I Turned Pretty” movie. The show follows a group of young American women as they navigate English high society, friendship and romance. Like Jenny Han’s series, this show largely revolves around a spunky teen who finds herself in the middle of a love triangle, this time with best friends. The supporting characters have plenty of romance themselves, so this show may also bandage the wound of missing Steven and Taylor.
The Spectacular Now (2013)
Starring Shailene Woodley and Miles Teller, “The Spectacular Now” follows an unlikely pairing with a party boy and nerdy girl. Filled with teen angst, this romantic drama has the same vibes as season two of “The Summer I Turned Pretty.”
The Map of Tiny Perfect Things (2021)
In this Groundhog’s Day-esque romantic drama, two strangers are stuck reliving the same day. Together, they explore the serendipitous moments that they otherwise would’ve never taken the time to notice. “The Map of Tiny Perfect Things” is a tender movie that reminds us to take autonomy of our own lives – something that the finale of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” emphasizes.
Until we’re back in Cousins Beach, these stories are sure to keep you entertained and swooning all year round.

