31 Most Incredible Songs About the Sea Ever Written (Must Hear)

Songs about the sea capture the profound relationship between humanity and the ocean, reflecting its timeless beauty, mystery, and power.

Whether celebrating its calming rhythm, vast horizons, or symbolic depth, these songs transport listeners to the shores of their imaginations.

Across genres and eras, the sea has inspired music that explores themes of adventure, love, solitude, and self-discovery. Dive into this collection of songs that celebrate the ocean’s universal allure and emotional resonance.

31 Most Famous Songs About the Sea & Ocean That Must Know

These songs capture the sea’s romance, tranquility, adventure, and awe, representing diverse perspectives across genres. Whether celebrating ocean voyages, seaside romance, or the meditative rhythm of waves, they highlight the deep connection between music and the sea.

Here’s a list of 31 songs inspired by the sea, celebrating its beauty, mystery, and power:

#1 “Beyond the Sea” by Bobby Darin

Bobby Darin’s “Beyond the Sea” is a timeless classic that captures the allure of the ocean as a metaphor for love and longing. With its upbeat swing melody and Darin’s smooth vocals, the song paints a picture of someone yearning for a lover who waits across the waves. The lyrics evoke a sense of adventure, promising that the sea is not a barrier but a path leading to happiness and reunion.

The song’s lighthearted tone and romantic imagery make it a celebration of hope and connection. “Beyond the Sea” invites listeners to dream of distant shores, reminding us that the sea, while vast and mysterious, can also be a source of beauty and inspiration.

#2 “Under the Sea” by Samuel E. Wright

“Under the Sea,” sung by Samuel E. Wright in The Little Mermaid, is a jubilant anthem that celebrates the vibrant life below the ocean’s surface. With its Caribbean-inspired rhythm and playful lyrics, the song brings to life a world teeming with colorful marine creatures and carefree fun. It contrasts the simplicity and joy of underwater life with the complexities of the human world, making a strong case for staying beneath the waves.

This song’s infectious energy and whimsical storytelling capture the magic of the sea. “Under the Sea” is not just a celebration of marine life but also a reminder to find joy in the simple pleasures that often go unnoticed.

#3 “The Ocean” by Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin’s “The Ocean” is a hard-rock tribute to the vastness and freedom of the sea, as well as a nod to their fans—whom they refer to as “the ocean.” The song’s driving rhythm and dynamic guitar riffs evoke the rolling waves and boundless energy of the ocean. With lyrics that reflect both personal experiences and the expansive metaphor of the sea, the track captures the power and inspiration it holds.

The song’s raw energy mirrors the ocean’s relentless motion, creating a connection between nature and human creativity. “The Ocean” by Led Zeppelin is a celebration of freedom and the endless inspiration found in the sea’s rhythm and magnitude.

#4 “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding

Otis Redding’s “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” is a soulful meditation on solitude and the sea’s calming presence. The gentle lapping of waves and Redding’s heartfelt vocals create a sense of peaceful introspection, as the narrator reflects on life while watching the tide roll in and out. The ocean becomes a symbol of constancy, offering solace amidst life’s uncertainties.

The song’s wistful tone and simple melody capture the bittersweet beauty of letting go and finding peace in the moment. “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” reminds listeners of the therapeutic power of the sea, where one can pause, reflect, and feel a sense of connection to something greater.

#5 “Orinoco Flow (Sail Away)” by Enya

Enya’s “Orinoco Flow (Sail Away)” is an ethereal, otherworldly song that invites listeners to embark on a journey across the seas. With its sweeping melody and layered vocals, the song conjures images of sailing through tranquil waters to distant, exotic lands. The lyrics name iconic places, creating a sense of wanderlust and the infinite possibilities offered by the open sea.

The song’s dreamy quality captures the meditative rhythm of the ocean, making it a soundtrack for escapism and exploration. “Orinoco Flow” is a celebration of the sea’s ability to transport us—physically and emotionally—to places of wonder and serenity, inviting us to lose ourselves in its boundless horizons.

#6 “Yellow Submarine” by The Beatles

The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine” is a whimsical, lighthearted ode to life beneath the waves, filled with surreal imagery and playful storytelling. Sung by Ringo Starr, the song creates a fantastical world where friends live happily in a bright yellow submarine, exploring the ocean together. Its singalong chorus and cheerful melody make it an enduring favorite, especially among children and those with a love for the imaginative.

The song’s carefree spirit celebrates the sea as a place of endless adventure and camaraderie. “Yellow Submarine” reminds listeners of the joy of storytelling and the way the sea inspires creativity, making it a timeless anthem for dreamers and explorers alike.

#7 “Ocean Eyes” by Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish’s “Ocean Eyes” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that uses the imagery of the ocean to evoke deep emotions and vulnerability. Her ethereal voice conveys a sense of longing and awe, as the lyrics describe eyes so captivating they are compared to the infinite depth of the sea. The song’s soft melody mirrors the ocean’s calm surface, while the emotional undertones reflect the turbulent waves beneath.

“Ocean Eyes” is a metaphorical exploration of love, fascination, and the overwhelming power of human connection. Eilish’s evocative track invites listeners to dive into their emotions, much like the ocean itself—vast, mysterious, and deeply affecting.

#8 “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass

Looking Glass’s “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” tells the story of a barmaid in a port town who captures the hearts of sailors but can never win over the true love of her life—the sea. The lyrics weave a bittersweet tale of longing and sacrifice, as the sailor explains that his heart belongs to the ocean. With its catchy melody and storytelling, the song captures the romantic and melancholic connection between people and the sea.

“Brandy” paints the ocean as a seductive yet unattainable force, emphasizing its ability to inspire devotion and heartbreak. The song’s timeless charm lies in its portrayal of the sea as both a lover and a rival, shaping the lives it touches.

#9 “Only the Ocean” by Jack Johnson

Jack Johnson’s “Only the Ocean” is a serene, meditative track that captures the tranquil and healing power of the sea. The minimalist arrangement and Johnson’s soothing voice create a sense of intimacy, as if the listener is sitting alone by the shoreline. The lyrics explore themes of solitude, introspection, and the ocean’s ability to wash away worries and bring clarity.

The song’s simplicity mirrors the endless horizon of the sea, reminding listeners of its vastness and serenity. “Only the Ocean” is a poetic tribute to the moments of peace and reflection found in nature, showing how the sea offers solace and connection to something greater.

#10 “Rock You Like a Hurricane” by Scorpions

Scorpions’ “Rock You Like a Hurricane” takes the raw, untamed power of a storm at sea and channels it into a metaphor for passion and energy. The iconic guitar riffs and powerful vocals capture the intensity and unpredictability of a hurricane, symbolizing both destruction and exhilaration. While not explicitly about the sea, the song evokes the ocean’s ferocity through its imagery of storms and their unstoppable force.

The track embodies the primal energy of nature and the way it mirrors human emotions. “Rock You Like a Hurricane” uses the sea’s storms as a metaphor for life’s wild and uncontrollable moments, celebrating the thrill of embracing them head-on.

#11 “Cool Change” by Little River Band

“Cool Change” by Little River Band is a reflective, introspective song about finding peace and renewal by the water. The lyrics express a yearning to escape the pressures of life and reconnect with the sea’s calming presence. The gentle melody and heartfelt vocals create an atmosphere of tranquility, capturing the sense of freedom that comes from being near the ocean.

This track is a celebration of the sea as a place of personal transformation and healing. “Cool Change” reminds listeners of the importance of taking time for oneself and finding satisfaction in the natural beauty and solitude of the ocean.

#12 “Ocean” by John Butler Trio

John Butler Trio’s “Ocean” is an instrumental masterpiece that captures the vastness, beauty, and power of the sea through intricate guitar work. The song’s ebb and flow mimic the movement of waves, starting softly before building to a powerful crescendo. Without lyrics, the music allows listeners to create their own narrative, evoking the emotions and memories tied to the ocean.

This track is a testament to the sea’s ability to inspire through sound and rhythm alone. “Ocean” by John Butler Trio is a meditative and deeply moving piece that invites listeners to feel the sea’s presence and embrace its boundless energy.

#13 “My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean” by Traditional

The traditional folk song “My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean” is a nostalgic tale of longing for a loved one who is far away across the sea. The simple melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a timeless classic, evoking the bittersweet emotions of separation and hope. The song reflects the ocean’s role as both a barrier and a bridge, connecting people even as it keeps them apart.

This enduring ballad captures the emotional power of the sea, symbolizing love, distance, and the promise of reunion. “My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean” reminds listeners of the way the ocean can hold both heartbreak and the hope of bringing loved ones together again.

#14 “Sail” by AWOLNATION

AWOLNATION’s “Sail” is a brooding, alternative track that uses sailing as a metaphor for escaping life’s struggles and embracing individuality. The powerful synths and haunting vocals create an intense atmosphere, mirroring the ocean’s unpredictable and sometimes overwhelming nature. The lyrics suggest a longing for freedom and a willingness to drift into the unknown, using the sea as a symbol of release.

“Sail” captures the tension between control and surrender, exploring the ocean’s duality as both a place of escape and challenge. The track’s raw energy and introspection make it a bold exploration of the sea’s metaphorical depth, inviting listeners to navigate their own emotional journeys.

#15 “The Sea” by Morcheeba

Morcheeba’s “The Sea” is a sultry, atmospheric track that captures the mysterious allure of the ocean. With its laid-back rhythm and Skye Edwards’s velvety vocals, the song evokes the tranquility and depth of staring out at endless waves. The lyrics reflect a longing for escape and the healing power of the sea, offering a moment of introspection and peace.

The track’s hypnotic melody and smooth instrumentation mirror the ebb and flow of the tides, creating a meditative experience. “The Sea” by Morcheeba is a poetic tribute to the ocean’s ability to soothe the soul and transport the mind to a place of calm and clarity.

#16 “Into the Mystic” by Van Morrison

Van Morrison’s “Into the Mystic” is a soulful and spiritual ode to the sea as a symbol of life’s mysteries and the journey toward self-discovery. With its rich, warm melody and poetic lyrics, the song invites listeners to embrace the unknown, much like setting sail into uncharted waters. Morrison’s soothing vocals create a sense of comfort, even as the song celebrates the unpredictability of life.

The song captures the sea’s dual role as both a literal and metaphorical force, representing freedom, connection, and the pull of something greater. “Into the Mystic” is a timeless reflection on the beauty of the ocean and its power to inspire introspection and transformation.

#17 “Southern Cross” by Crosby, Stills & Nash

Crosby, Stills & Nash’s “Southern Cross” is a nautical tale of love, loss, and redemption, set against the backdrop of a voyage through the southern seas. The song’s sailing imagery and harmonious vocals tell the story of a journey both physical and emotional, where the Southern Cross constellation serves as a guiding light. The ocean becomes a place of healing and reflection, offering solace to a heartbroken sailor.

The song’s blend of adventure and introspection highlights the transformative power of the sea. “Southern Cross” celebrates the freedom of life on the water and the clarity that comes from charting a course through both the ocean and one’s own emotions.

#18 “The Tide is High” by Blondie

Blondie’s “The Tide is High” is a reggae-inspired track that uses the rhythm of the sea as a metaphor for persistence and determination in love. The gentle sway of the melody mirrors the movement of waves, while the lyrics convey confidence in staying the course. Debbie Harry’s relaxed yet assertive vocals create a balance between vulnerability and strength.

The song captures the timeless rhythm of the sea as a reminder of resilience and patience. “The Tide is High” is an empowering anthem about standing firm, much like the ocean’s tides that continue their steady, unrelenting motion.

#19 “Come Sail Away” by Styx

Styx’s “Come Sail Away” is an epic rock ballad that begins as a story of setting sail on a personal journey and transforms into a tale of cosmic wonder. The song’s opening piano melody reflects the calm anticipation of embarking on an adventure, while the powerful crescendo evokes the exhilaration of reaching uncharted territories. The lyrics suggest a transformation, with sailing becoming a metaphor for transcending earthly limitations and exploring the unknown.

“Come Sail Away” captures the ocean’s ability to inspire dreams and open the mind to infinite possibilities. It’s a celebration of both the physical and metaphysical journeys the sea can inspire, blending introspection with boundless imagination.

#20 “Catch the Wind” by Donovan

Donovan’s “Catch the Wind” is a tender folk song that uses the imagery of the sea and wind to express longing and unfulfilled love. The gentle melody and poetic lyrics evoke the feeling of standing by the shore, wishing to harness the intangible beauty of the elements. The sea becomes a symbol of unattainable desires, as vast and elusive as the love the narrator seeks.

This track captures the wistfulness of yearning, showing how the sea mirrors the depths of human emotion. “Catch the Wind” is a poignant reminder of the beauty in chasing dreams, even if they remain just out of reach, much like trying to capture the sea breeze.

#21 “Beyond the Reef” by Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley’s “Beyond the Reef” is a soothing ballad about longing, loss, and the search for peace across the ocean. The lyrics describe a love left behind, with the ocean serving as a bridge to distant memories and a place of solace. Presley’s heartfelt delivery and the gentle instrumentation create an atmosphere of calm reflection, as the sea becomes both a source of comfort and a reminder of what’s been lost.

The song’s serene tone highlights the healing power of the ocean, even in times of sadness. “Beyond the Reef” is a tender tribute to the sea’s role as a constant companion, offering solace and connection even in times of heartache.

#22 “Pirate Looks at Forty” by Jimmy Buffett

Jimmy Buffett’s “Pirate Looks at Forty” is a reflective ballad that captures the romanticism and melancholy of a life spent dreaming of the sea. The song tells the story of an aging dreamer who feels out of place in the modern world, yearning for the freedom and adventure of a bygone pirate’s life. With Buffett’s relaxed vocals and soulful guitar, the track blends nostalgia with the bittersweet realization of lost opportunities.

The sea becomes a metaphor for untamed freedom, symbolizing the life the narrator has always yearned for but never fully realized. “Pirate Looks at Forty” celebrates the ocean’s allure, painting it as both a source of inspiration and a reminder of time’s passing.

#23 “Sail On, Sailor” by The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys’ “Sail On, Sailor” is a soulful, rock-infused anthem of resilience and perseverance, using the metaphor of sailing to depict the struggles of life. The lyrics describe a journey fraught with challenges, yet the narrator remains determined to keep moving forward. With its dynamic harmonies and emotional depth, the song captures both the hardships and triumphs of navigating through life’s storms.

The sea serves as a powerful symbol of persistence, reminding listeners to push forward even when the waters are rough. “Sail On, Sailor” is an inspiring tribute to resilience, urging listeners to stay afloat and continue their voyage, no matter how turbulent the tides may be.

#24 “Somewhere Beyond the Sea” by Frank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra’s rendition of “Somewhere Beyond the Sea” is a smooth and romantic ode to love and longing. The song’s elegant melody and Sinatra’s crooning vocals create a sense of optimism, as the lyrics describe a lover waiting across the waves. The ocean becomes a bridge between two hearts, symbolizing the hope and determination to be reunited.

This classic track embodies the timeless allure of the sea as a place of possibility and connection. “Somewhere Beyond the Sea” is a celebration of love that transcends distance, with the ocean serving as both an obstacle and a pathway to fulfillment.

#25 “A Drop in the Ocean” by Ron Pope

Ron Pope’s “A Drop in the Ocean” is a poignant ballad that uses the imagery of the sea to convey longing, unrequited love, and emotional vulnerability. The lyrics compare love to a vast ocean, with the narrator feeling like a small, insignificant drop within its depths. Pope’s heartfelt vocals and the song’s gentle piano arrangement create a deeply emotional atmosphere, mirroring the sea’s tranquil yet overwhelming presence.

The ocean serves as a metaphor for the vastness of love and the pain of feeling lost within it. “A Drop in the Ocean” is a moving exploration of love’s beauty and heartbreak, capturing the sea’s role as both a source of wonder and emotional depth.

#26 “Seaside” by The Kooks

The Kooks’ “Seaside” is a charming, acoustic track that captures the intimacy and nostalgia of a day spent by the water. The lyrics tell a simple yet heartfelt story of love and connection, set against the backdrop of the seaside’s tranquil beauty. The gentle melody and stripped-down arrangement evoke the carefree joy of being near the ocean, where time seems to slow down.

The song’s warm, nostalgic tone celebrates the simplicity of life’s small moments, made special by the presence of the sea. “Seaside” reminds listeners of the magic found in shared experiences by the water, where love and nature intertwine in perfect harmony.

#27 “Beneath Still Waters” by Emmylou Harris

Emmylou Harris’s “Beneath Still Waters” is a soulful country ballad that uses the imagery of calm seas to explore hidden emotional depths. The lyrics suggest that beneath the surface of still waters lie powerful currents of pain, longing, and unspoken truths. Harris’s emotive vocals and the song’s haunting melody create a sense of introspection and vulnerability.

The ocean becomes a metaphor for the complexities of human emotion, where calm exteriors often mask deeper struggles. “Beneath Still Waters” is a poignant reminder of the hidden forces within us, with the sea serving as a reflection of both serenity and turmoil.

#28 “Wade in the Water” by Traditional

“Wade in the Water” is a spiritual and deeply rooted song that connects the sea to themes of liberation, faith, and resilience. Originally a song of the Underground Railroad, its lyrics encourage escapees to use water as a pathway to freedom, evoking the ocean’s role as both a literal and symbolic lifeline. The song’s rhythm and powerful lyrics reflect both struggle and hope, creating a dynamic narrative of courage.

The sea becomes a force of empowerment, guiding those seeking freedom and justice. “Wade in the Water” celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, showing how the ocean can represent both sanctuary and strength in the face of adversity.

#29 “To the Sea” by Yanni

Yanni’s “To the Sea” is an instrumental piece that captures the vastness and serenity of the ocean through its sweeping melodies and lush arrangements. The song’s gentle piano and orchestral undertones evoke the rhythmic ebb and flow of waves, inviting listeners to experience the calming embrace of the sea. Without words, Yanni creates a vivid soundscape that mirrors the ocean’s timeless allure and mysterious beauty.

The track serves as a meditative journey, transporting listeners to a place of tranquility and reflection. “To the Sea” celebrates the sea’s ability to inspire peace and awe, reminding us of its power to connect us to something greater and more enduring than ourselves.

#30 “Across the Sea” by Weezer

Weezer’s “Across the Sea” is a deeply personal track that uses the ocean as a metaphor for distance and longing. The lyrics tell the story of an emotional connection spanning continents, where the sea becomes both a symbol of separation and a bridge between two hearts. With its melancholic melody and heartfelt delivery, the song captures the bittersweet nature of love that feels just out of reach.

The ocean represents both the beauty and challenge of longing, highlighting the complexities of human relationships. “Across the Sea” is a poignant reflection on the sea’s dual role as an obstacle and a bond, expressing the yearning for closeness despite vast physical distances.

#31 “Sea of Love” by Phil Phillips and the Twilights

Phil Phillips and the Twilights’ “Sea of Love” is a tender, romantic ballad that likens the experience of falling in love to being immersed in the sea. With its dreamy melody and Phillips’s gentle vocals, the song creates a sense of enchantment and vulnerability, as if love itself is a vast and endless ocean. The lyrics invite the listener to join the narrator in the “sea of love,” celebrating the depth and beauty of emotional connection.

This timeless track captures the romantic allure of the sea, making it a perfect metaphor for love’s intensity and mystery. “Sea of Love” remains an enduring classic, reminding us of the ocean’s ability to evoke both passion and serenity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are songs about the sea so popular across genres?

The sea’s vastness, mystery, and emotional resonance make it a universal symbol in music. Artists use it to explore themes like love, freedom, longing, and introspection, appealing to a wide audience.

What emotions do songs about the sea typically evoke?

Songs about the sea often evoke feelings of peace, nostalgia, adventure, or yearning. They mirror the ocean’s dual nature—calm and soothing yet wild and unpredictable.

Are songs about the sea typically literal or metaphorical?

They can be both; some songs celebrate the literal beauty and power of the ocean, while others use it metaphorically to express deeper emotions like love, loss, or self-discovery. This versatility makes the sea a rich source of inspiration.

Which genres most commonly feature songs about the sea?

Folk, rock, reggae, and jazz frequently feature sea-themed songs due to their storytelling and emotional depth. However, the theme transcends genres, appearing in everything from pop to instrumental pieces.