Summer and movies go together like splish and splash. You simply can’t have one without the other. And for us, there’s simply no better way to beat the heat on hot, sticky nights than cranking the AC, popping some corn, and curling up in front of the television for a summer family movie night marathon.
Of course, choosing the lineup is where the wrench comes in. Pleasing everyone with a single movie or two can get tricky. Luckily, you have us! Ahead, a splendid selection of clever Disney films, coming-of-age classics, and newer blockbuster hits finally streaming; trust us, even the pickiest viewer will be putty in your hands with this curation of crowd-pleasers.
To stay on theme, the following films either set their plots during the summer months or showcase quintessential elements of the season, like sand, sea, and surf. Give it a scroll, then all that’s left to do is prep those movie snacks, replenish the ice pops, and whet your sense of adventure and wonder.
Best Summer Family Movies for Young Kids
PAW Patrol: The Movie
The pack of pups made famous on the small screen finally gets the big-screen treatment with this summery New York City romp. Armed with new gadgets, gear, and catchphrases, the PAW Patrol takes on the mean, old cat-loving mayor of Adventure City.
Know Your Crowd
PAW Patrol is great for super-young audiences, but should you be looking for something that will appeal to even younger audiences but still hold your attention, we recommend Blue’s Big City Adventure.
Stream it on Netflix. Stream the sequel, PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie on Prime Video.
Sea Beast
This Netflix Original film, about a stowaway little girl who dares to challenge the status quo aboard a sea beast hunter ship, is so smart. Layered on so many levels, the youngest movie watchers will love its gorgeous visuals, the older kids will dig the action and adventure, and the parents in the room will savor the message of peace and themes of questioning widely accepted false truths.
Know Your Crowd
Sea creatures with tentacles that can smash big ships might frighten tiny eyes. But the universal themes of bravery, teamwork, and standing up for what’s right will win everyone over.
Stream it on Netflix.
Encanto
The Madrigals live in an enchanted abode tucked away in the mountains of Colombia. A massive brood, they all harbor magical powers themselves–well, all but one. Mirabel, our bespectacled protagonist, was seemingly born without a superpower. That is until she becomes her family’s only hope for survival.
Know Your Crowd
The littlest viewers might find a few parts of this vibrant Disney film a bit scary. There are a few close calls with Mirabel cheating death and some scenes that involve firebombing and violent outbreaks. Still, the tunes, written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, will turn any frown upside down.
Stream it on Disney+
Finding Nemo
Young clownfish Nemo gets caught by humans in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and finds himself trapped in a fish tank at a dentist’s office. While he plots his escape with some newfound friends, Nemo’s father, Marlin, goes on an undersea journey accompanied by forgetful fish Dory to find Nemo.
Know Your Crowd
While kids will enjoy the undersea world’s bright colors and the journey’s excitement, very young viewers may find the predator fish frightening. The film also features some important lessons about friendship and family and is a true classic.
Stream it on Disney+
A Bug’s Life
Circus performer bugs are the only help Flik can find to help when grasshoppers take charge of his ant colony. Flik must prove that he is more than just the colony screw-up and save the day.
Know Your Crowd
Kids will enjoy the antics of the adorable insects, while parents will appreciate positive messages surrounding nature, teamwork, and forging ahead, despite hardship. Some of the bugs are a bit scary and there is some mild language. This may also provide kids with a more positive outlook on bugs, which may prove helpful to parents during the summer months.
Stream it on Disney+
The Little Mermaid
This classic animated Disney film, based on the fairy tale by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen, focuses on the young mermaid princess, Ariel. When she journeys to the sea’s surface, she falls in love with the very handsome (and very human) Prince Eric. To be with him, Ariel strikes a deal with the horrid sea witch, Ursula, but she finds it may cost her more than she imagined.
Know Your Crowd
Young viewers will fall in love with the funny and loyal crab, Sebastian, and the anxious and adorable fish, Flounder. Some dark moments may scare sensitive viewers. The themes of love and friendship will hit a universal cord with viewers young and old.
Stream it on Disney+
Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation
This funny animated film features Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, and Selena Gomez. In the third installment in the series, Count Dracula and his peeps go on a cruise, unaware that the Van Helsings, who hate monsters, have taken control of the ship.
Know Your Crowd
Nothing says summer more than a monster cruise, and the comedically talented cast is top-notch. This fun threequel is worth the watch. There are a few scary scenes, but kids ages five and up should appreciate the humor more than fear the scares.
Stream it on Prime Video
Surf’s Up
An annual surf contest featuring a group of penguins seems like the perfect summer flick. Newcomer Cody Maverick sets out to prove he can hang ten with the best of them in this 2007 Oscar-nominated film.
Know Your Crowd
With an outstanding A-list cast including Jeff Bridges, Zooey Deschanel, Shia LaBeouf, and surf star Kelly Slater, Surf’s Up promises laughs and adventure for even the more discerning viewer. A few images may be disturbing for very young viewers, so this film is best for kids five and up.
Stream it on Prime Video
Toy Story 4
This perfect summer family movie is the fourth installment of the Pixar franchise (the fifth film is coming in 2026) and it finds Buzz, Woody, and the gang going on a road trip with Bonnie and her parents. They reunite with old friends and have fantastic summertime adventures as they learn more about themselves and each other.
Know Your Crowd
Antique doll Gabby Gabby and the ventriloquist dummies may be scary for very young viewers. This touching film reunites all our favorite Toy Story characters, and for that alone, it should be added to your family’s summer watch list.
Stream it on Disney+
Moana
Based on Polynesian myths, Moana, a young girl goes on a journey to convince the demigod Maui to return the heart of a goddess. She believes this will help the people on her island to return to a time of prosperity.
Know Your Crowd
This beautifully animated film was nominated for two Oscars. One for Best Animated Feature Film of the Year and the other for Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (The original song How Far I’ll Go was written by Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda). The film received a PG rating for some scary situations and peril but is appropriate for kids five and up.
Stream it on Disney+
Related: All the New, Original Kids’ Movies Streaming in 2024
Best Summer Family Movies for Grade-School Kids
E.T.the Extra-Terrestrial
During a tumultuous time, Elliott must deal with his parent’s divorce and a visit from an out-of-this-world friend he names E.T. When their bond becomes so strong it creates a connection that allows them to feel what the other is feeling, Elliott realizes just how special his new friend is and will stop at nothing to help him find his way home.
Know Your Crowd
This ’80s classic coming-of-age film from director Steven Spielberg explores friendship and loyalty and is a summer list must. The friendship between E.T. and Elliott strengthens Elliott’s bond with his mother and siblings. Due to some language and thematic elements like drinking and divorce, this movie is best for kids seven and up.
Stream it on Prime Video or AppleTV+
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
Set during the summer season, just before the start of school, Mutant Mayhem sees Raphael, Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Donatello working to rid New York City’s streets of mutant scum while also just trying to fit in with their peers.
Know Your Crowd
Little ones who might not know the Ninja Turtles just yet are getting one of the best introductions with this animated film co-produced by Seth Rogen. Meanwhile, parents are getting a hit of turtle-power nostalgia more potent than a steaming pepperoni pizza. Everyone’s gonna love it.
Stream it on Paramount+
The Parent Trap
Disney’s remake of the 1961 original starring Hayley Mills is a national treasure. About a set of twins who hatch a plan at summer camp to get their estranged parents back together, the 1998 film stars Lindsey Lohan in a dual role, and it just gets better with age.
Know Your Crowd
There are a couple of scenes parents might want to be aware of before hitting play. Nothing too taboo, but in one scene, the twins get too big for their britches during a game of poker, and in another, one twin pierces the other’s ears with a needle and an ice cube.
Stream it on Disney+
Hollywood Stargirl
Set on the sunny West Coast, Hollywood Stargirl is the follow-up film to Disney’s sleeper hit Stargirl (which unfortunately is not currently streaming anywhere), and it catches up with Stargirl Caraway, as she begins her journey to becoming a musical sensation in Los Angeles.
Know Your Crowd
Parents, summer romance is on the menu here. But worry not; this feel-good film keeps its scenes featuring puppy love light and respectful. Overall, this winner is a beautifully shot drama with a positive message and dreamy musical numbers.
Stream it on Prime Video
The Goonies
This beloved 1985 coming-of-age film features a group of friends who get caught up in an adventure after discovering a long-lost treasure map. They must face off against a family of criminals, booby traps, and a long-dead pirate to find the fortune to save one of their homes.
Know Your Crowd
Directed by Richard Donner and written by Chris Columbus and Steven Spielberg, the film promises a nostalgic journey for GenX parents who can share a return to their adolescence with their kids. With some perilous situations and crude humor and language, this classic is best viewed with kids 10+.
Stream it on Prime Video or AppleTV+
The Sandlot
Another classic coming-of-age movie that’s perfect for summer family movie night, The Sandlot is the tale of a new boy who finds his place with a group of kids playing baseball on an old lot. They spend one adventurous and unforgettable summer battling a little league team and a dog named Beast.
Know Your Crowd
This film is a summer must-see, with a treehouse, sleepovers, and a gang of kids. It will remind parents and kids what summer is meant for, fun and friendship. Though the film is light-hearted and features themes of teamwork and friendship, some adult language makes this one best for kids nine and over.
Stream it on Disney+, Hulu, or AppleTV+
Dora and the Lost City of Gold
Based on the Nickelodeon television series, the film focuses on a teenage Dora. Dora and her gang of friends, including her cousin Diego and best friend, the monkey Boots, go on a journey to solve a mystery about a lost civilization and help Dora’s parents.
Know Your Crowd
This live-action film is filled with adventure and a positive, diverse female character. Parents should know that the film also features some moments of peril, including a kidnapping. However, the message surrounding perseverance and teamwork makes it a great summer family movie for kids eight and up.
Stream it on Paramount+ or AppleTV+
Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer
Based on the Judy Moody book series by author Megan McDonald, the film focuses on one summer in the life of a spirited third grader, Judy Moody. While her parents are away, Judy and her brother, Stink, stay home with their fun and adventurous aunt Opal. Judy uses the summer to earn the most thrill points in a “best summer” contest with her friends.
Know Your Crowd
The film has some potty humor, but it is mild, so kids six and over are an appropriate audience. There are some valuable lessons to be learned about home and family. Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer promotes the joy of a good old-fashioned summer at home.
Stream it on Prime Video or Hulu
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
The film, based on the fourth book in the best-selling children’s book series by author Jeff Kinney, follows the title character Greg Heffley, and his best friend, Rowley Jefferson, who do their best to make it through the summer. Greg’s dad dislikes him playing video games, and his mother wants him to get involved in some activities, including a boring book club. Will he survive the dog days of summer?
Know Your Crowd
With important summer-themed positive messages about the importance of getting outside and family bonding, this fun film will appeal to parents and kids alike. Parents should be aware that there is some potty humor, so the film is best suited for kids ages nine and up.
Stream it on Disney+ or Prime Video
Related: 15 Movies That Show What Real Friendship Looks Like
Best Summer Family Movies for Older Kids
Moonrise Kingdom
This Oscar-nominated Wes Anderson film is a quirky romantic comedy. When two kids run away together, the town where they live gets involved in the effort to find them. Set in 1960s New England, the film explores young love.
Know Your Crowd
This unconventional love story is a heartfelt look at first love. With Bill Murray, Bruce Willis, and Frances McDormand all lending their talent, there is no lack of star power. With some adult content, and smoking and drinking, this film is best for teens 14 and older.
Stream it on Prime Video
Barbie
Viewers of all ages and genders will love Greta Gerwig’s Barbie. On its way to becoming essential viewing, the film follows Barbie from her dream world into the real world on a mission to quell an existential crisis she is in the throes of. From fun things to look at to lumpy-throat messages to take away, this musical comedy has it all.
Know Your Crowd
Mature themes, sexual innuendo, and strong language might require some conversation with the younger audiences in the room. Something to be aware of.
Stream it on MAX
The Last Song
Based on the 2009 Nicholas Sparks novel, this romantic film stars former flames Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth. When a young woman is sent to live with her father for the summer, she finds they share a love for music. She also strikes up a relationship with a handsome local.
Know Your Crowd
The Last Song is more than a simple love story; it is the story of a father and daughter finding their way back to each other. Romance novelist Nicholas Sparks writes the perfect summer romance, which translates to the perfect summer film. With adult themes, including death and divorce, this film is best for older tweens and teens.
Stream it on Disney+ or Prime Video
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
Miles Morales is Marvel’s first Afro-Latino superhero and he wears the suit so well. In Across the Spider-Verse, the second in this modern animated trilogy, Miles tries to find community while keeping his Spidey identity under the mask. Watch this one now, before the trilogy bookend comes out.
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Not feeling animation? Spider-Man: Far From Home is also set during summer, with Peter heading across the pond for a European vacation that is anything but relaxing. It’s also a fun watch that will have everyone cheering.
Stream it on Netflix
In the Heights
Radiating with vibrant Cuban culture, so much love, and endless fun in the sun, this musical from John M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians) is exactly what the season calls for. The story revolves around a bodega owner and his friends, all reaching for their dreams yet sticking to their roots in Washington Heights.
Know Your Crowd
It’s summer. It’s hot. It’s sticky. So the clothing on these characters, at times, is scant at best. There are also some suggestive dancing scenes. But, honestly, it’s nothing you wouldn’t see on prime time’s Dancing With the Stars. Overall, joy, pride, family, community, and love take center stage here.
Stream it on MAX or Prime Video
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
When four best friends go separate ways for summer, a pair of jeans that magically conforms to their differing body sizes and shapes keeps them connected. The film is based on the Anne Brashares novel of the same name and stars Alexis Bledel, Blake Lively, America Ferrera, and Amber Tamblyn.
Know Your Crowd
An adventure set in summer with four besties is perfect for a warm summer night of sitting on the couch with the windows open with your favorite tween. With language and some mature themes like suicide and sex, this is best for kids 12+.
Stream it on Prime Video
Soul Surfer
This biographical film was released in 2011 and is based on surfer Bethany Hamilton’s autobiography. Hamilton lost her arm in a shark attack and the film focuses on her recovery and return to surfing.
Know Your Crowd
With an all-star cast including Dennis Quaid, Craig T. Nelson, and Helen Hunt and beautiful locations including Hawaii and Tahiti, this film may become a family favorite. One note to parents, Soul Surfer has a positive female role model who overcomes a horrible tragedy to do what she loves, but the shark attack, while quick, is gory.
Stream it on Prime Video
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a perfect summer family movie. The latest film in the franchise focuses on the Guardians moving on after losing Gamora. Peter Quill and the rest of the guardian gang must do their best to (once again) save the universe.
Know Your Crowd
An action-adventure film is perfect for summer. Nothing offers more action or out-of-this-world adventure than the Guardians of the Galaxy. By far the darkest in the series, the film features animal torture and content surrounding trauma. With adult language and a large body count, this film is best for teens 13+.
Stream it on Disney+
The Way, Way Back
For shy teenager Duncan, a summer vacation with his mother, her boyfriend, and his daughter is less than ideal. It’s awkward and anything but fun until he befriends the manager of a water park.
Know Your Crowd
Starring Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Maya Rudolph, and Sam Rockwell, this coming-of-age is a sweet reminder of the awkwardness of family vacations. The film received a PG-13 rating for language, sexual content, and thematic elements.
Stream it on Prime Video or AppleTV+
— additional reporting by DeAnna Janes
