Books On Board
series Reading Order

Beach Books in Order

8 Books
2 Reading orders
1999 – 2007 Published
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Reading order

How to Read Kate Cann's Beach Series

Kate Cann’s Beach series (also frequently referred to as the Holiday series) consists of four young adult novels. Because each book features a different protagonist and setting, they function as standalone stories. You do not need to read them in a strict sequence to understand the plot, though most readers prefer to follow either the publication order or the chronological setting of the books.

Publication Order of the Beach Books

If you want to read the series as it was released to the public, follow the publication order. Note that each book has been published under two different titles—an original UK title and a later 'Holiday' themed title:

  1. Footloose (also published as Grecian Holiday) – 1999
  2. Fiesta (also published as Spanish Holiday) – 2001
  3. Escape (also published as California Holiday) – 2003
  4. Sea Change (also published as Mediterranean Holiday) – 2007

Chronological Reading Order

Some reading lists arrange the books in a slightly different chronological order based on internal timelines and settings, although there is no overlapping story arc that makes this layout mandatory:

  1. Fiesta / Spanish Holiday (2001)
  2. Escape / California Holiday (2003)
  3. Footloose / Grecian Holiday (1999)
  4. Sea Change / Mediterranean Holiday (2007)

Where Should You Start?

Since the Beach books are self-contained, you can start with whichever destination appeals to you most. If you want the purest experience, we recommend starting with Footloose / Grecian Holiday to see how Kate Cann first established her signature atmospheric, sun-drenched YA style, or Fiesta / Spanish Holiday, which is one of the most beloved entries in the series.

Frequently Asked

QDo you need to read the Beach series in order?

No. The books in the Beach series are standalone stories with different characters and settings, so you can read them in any order you choose.

QWhat are the alternative titles for the Beach series?

Each book in the series was released under two names. Footloose is also known as Grecian Holiday, Fiesta as Spanish Holiday, Escape as California Holiday, and Sea Change as Mediterranean Holiday.

QWhat is the recommended starting book?

We recommend starting with either Footloose / Grecian Holiday (the first published book) or Fiesta / Spanish Holiday, which is widely considered a fan favorite.

QWho is the author of the Beach series?

The series is written by Kate Cann, a popular English author known for her authentic and relatable young adult contemporary fiction.

QWhat themes are explored in these books?

The series focuses on realistic teenage relationships, self-discovery, escaping controlling situations, and personal growth, all set during transformative summer holidays.

QHow many books are in the Beach series?

There are four main books in the series, published between 1999 and 2007.