vote on

#13 The Bodyguard (Original Soundtrack Album)on The Best 90s Movie Soundtracks #5 Abbey Roadon Every Album From The Beatles, Ranked

COLLECTION

7 LISTS

Sounds of the Beach BoysThe Beach Boys are an iconic musical group from Hawthorne, California that has influenced pop culture for decades.

Music|Albums

All 29 Beach Boys Albums, Ranked By Fans

Coley Reed

Updated July 12, 202429 items

Facebook

Twitter

Copy link

Ranked By

7.7Kvotes

939voters

6reranks

Voting Rules

Only studio albums.

Ever wondered what the best Beach Boys albums are? This crowdranked list aims to solve that debate by inviting fans to vote for their favorite studio albums by one of rock’s most iconic bands. Only studio albums can be included; no singles, EPs, or greatest hits compilations take part in this ranking. The Beach Boys, a staple in the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame and known for their monumental impact on surf rock and ’60s music, means the stakes are high for each album. Celebrated by both seasoned fans and newcomers, this list is the ultimate way to see which albums shine the brightest.

Among the top contenders sits Pet Sounds, often hailed for its revolutionary production and emotional depth. Tracks like “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” and “God Only Knows” showcase lush orchestration and introspective lyrics. The Beach Boys Today! marks a departure with its complex orchestral arrangements and themes of vulnerability. Fans of groundbreaking sound will appreciate Smiley Smile, an experimental album created during a tumultuous period for the band. Then there’s Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!), which combines catchy pop tunes with intricate production, highlighted by hits like “California Girls.” Surf’s Up stands out for its mature themes and minimal involvement from Brian Wilson, bringing more contributions from Carl Wilson and addressing social issues.

Eager to weigh in on the best Beach Boys albums? Each vote contributes to shaping this crowdranked compilation, making sure true fan favorites rise to the top. Click through the list and make sure your preferred albums get the credit they deserve. Only you can ensure the most iconic, enjoyable, or groundbreaking albums receive the spotlight they truly command. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a new listener, your vote adds to the vibrant legacy of The Beach Boys’ discography. Dive in and make your voice heard!

Most divisive: L.A. (Light Album)

Over 900 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of All 29 Beach Boys Albums, Ranked By Fans

HOW RANKINGS WORK

Ranked byAll votersrerankers (6)regionagemenwomenrank it your way

1Pet Sounds1966578 votesAgree or Disagree?Revolutionizing music with its sophisticated production and emotional lyricism, the 11th album by the Beach Boys earned critical acclaim and notable accolades. Initially met with lukewarm reception in the US, where it peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Top LPs, Pet Sounds found greater success in the UK, reaching No. 2 and remaining in the top 10 for six months. The 1966 record’s production, heavily influenced by Phil Spector’s Wall of Sound technique, features an array of unconventional instruments like the Electro-Theremin and bicycle bells. Tracks such as “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” and “God Only Knows” highlight its innovative blend of lush orchestration and introspective compositions.View on AMAZON
2The Beach Boys Today!1965412 votesPropelled by its shift from upbeat surf anthems to introspective ballads, the Beach Boys’s eighth studio album impressed listeners and critics alike. Laced with Brian Wilson’s intricate orchestral arrangements – featuring instruments like the vibraphone and French horn – the 1965 record delves into complex themes of vulnerability and insecurity. Notable tracks such as “She Knows Me Too Well” and “In the Back of My Mind” highlight the band’s departure from their trademark sound.View on AMAZON
3Surf’s Up1971470 votesSurf’s Up, released during a transformative period for the band, was the Beach Boys’s 17th album and marked a shift toward addressing environmental and social issues. Despite not winning any major awards, it reached No. 15 on the UK charts and peaked at No. 29 in the US, making it their highest-charting record since 1967. Produced with minimal involvement from Brian Wilson, it involved thinner vocal arrangements and more contributions from Carl Wilson, including “Long Promised Road” and “Feel Flows.” The title track, a remnant from their unfinished Smile project, added significant depth. While initially met with mixed reviews, the 1971 album later gained appreciation for its mature themes and innovative techniques.
- Also ranks #11 on Underrated Movies Overshadowed By Bigger Movies With The Same Plot
- Also ranks #230 on The Greatest Albums of All-Time
View on AMAZON
01:3209:17https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225026https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225027https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225028https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225029https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225032https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225033https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225034https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225035https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225036https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225037https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225038https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225039https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.677.0_en.html#goog_83225051 What Makes A Sandwich A Sandwich?How Malcolm In The Middle Quietly Re-Invented The SitcomWhy Bob Belcher Is Better Than Every Other Cartoon DadHow Adam Sandler Made An Entire Career Playing The Same…Why Jack Black Is One Of The Only Actors You Can’t ReplaceWhat Popular Foods Originally Tasted LikeThe Rise and Fall of Saturday Morning Cartoons8 Important Movies We Love But Never Need To RewatchThe Weirdest Ideas In History That Somehow Came TrueHow An Episode Of Seinfeld Actually Works
4Sunflower1970414 votesSunflower, the Beach Boys’s 16th album, released in 1970, marked their debut on Reprise Records. Despite favorable reviews, it charted poorly in the U.S., peaking at No. 151, though it fared better in the UK at No. 29. Lacking major award wins, its charm lies in the democratic collaboration among band members, each contributing significantly to its diverse sound. Production involved a year-long search for a label and numerous tracklist revisions. Popular songs like “Add Some Music to Your Day” highlighted their harmonic prowess.View on AMAZON
5Smiley Smile1967612 votesThe Beach Boys’s 12th album faced both confusion and disappointment from fans and critics. Despite peaking at No. 9 in the UK, it performed poorly in the US, only reaching No. 41. Smiley Smile, conceived as a lo-fi, “stoned” alternative to their unfinished Smile project, employed experimental production techniques at Brian Wilson’s home studio. Utilizing radio broadcasting equipment and found objects for percussion, the 1967 recordings included fragmented modules that were later spliced together. Notable songs like “Heroes and Villains” reflect this experimental approach, blending unconventional instrumentation with a relaxed, party-like atmosphere.View on AMAZON
6All Summer Long1964328 votesReleased at the peak of Beatlemania, the Beach Boys’s sixth album deviated from their usual themes of cars and surfing to capture the essence of Southern California teenage life. It reached No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 6 on the US Billboard 200. With Brian Wilson at the production helm, the 1964 record introduced new textures like the piccolo and xylophone. Popular singles such as “I Get Around” and “All Summer Long” demonstrate its enduring charm.View on AMAZON
https://584a238b93ccdbf6a160f12ce448c847.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html
7Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!) 298 votesCombining commercial demands with artistic ambition, the Beach Boys’s ninth studio album displayed a return to simpler themes after a brief departure into introspective work. Produced by Brian Wilson, it was a commercial hit, reaching No. 2 on the US Billboard 200 and No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart. It included the chart-topping single “Help Me, Rhonda” and the iconic “California Girls.” Despite some mixed reviews, it was later appreciated for its catchy pop songs. The 1965 record’s production employed innovative techniques, exemplifying Wilson’s creatively evolving musical style.View on AMAZON
8Friends1968364 votesReleased during a rocky financial period for the Beach Boys, their 14th album charmed many with its calm, peaceful atmosphere. Despite peaking at a lowly No. 126 on the U.S. Billboard charts, it reached a respectable No. 13 in the UK. Not directed by Brian Wilson as the primary composer, it represented a shift toward collaborative efforts within the group. The 1968 production saw inventive use of Brian’s home studio setup, guided by engineer Stephen Desper. Popular tracks include the serene “Friends” and the reflective “Be Still.”View on AMAZON
9Holland1973341 votesThe result of temporary relocation to the Netherlands for inspiration, the Beach Boys’s 19th album was their first without Bruce Johnston since 1965 and prominently featured newcomers Blondie Chaplin and Ricky Fataar. Despite mixed initial reception, the 1973 record peaked at No. 36 on the U.S. charts and No. 20 in the UK. Its standout track “Sail On, Sailor” became a fan favorite. Produced largely under the direction of Carl Wilson and Jack Rieley, Holland included an innovative bonus EP, Mount Vernon and Fairway, crafted by Brian and Carl Wilson.View on AMAZON
10Surfer Girl1963289 votesSurfer Girl, the Beach Boys’s third studio album, was Brian Wilson’s first official production credit. The record was created over intense sessions at Western Studio, with innovative uses of string sections and musicians from Wrecking Crew. It achieved gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America in 1965, with the lead single “Surfer Girl” and its B-side “Little Deuce Coupe” both becoming top 10 hits. Despite some critical reviews dismissing parts of the album as filler, songs like “In My Room” and “Catch a Wave” highlighted Wilson’s growth as a composer.View on AMAZON
11Wild Honey1967368 votesAmid a period of experimentation for the Beach Boys, their 13th album saw Brian Wilson sharing production duties with Carl Wilson for the first time. Despite peaking at No. 24 on the US Billboard 200 and No. 7 on the UK charts, Wild Honey did not receive any major award nominations. Initial critical reception was lukewarm, with many dismissing it as lightweight. However, it later gained appreciation for its simplicity and stripped-down sound. The 1967 record featured memorable tracks like “Wild Honey” and “Darlin’,” marking a move toward a more soulful and R&B-influenced style. Its DIY approach influenced several contemporaries, including Bob Dylan and the Beatles.View on AMAZON
1220/201969292 votesThe Beach Boys’s 15yh album, released in 1969, featured both new tracks and outtakes from earlier sessions. Despite not winning any major awards, it reached No. 3 on the UK charts and No. 68 in the US. The singles “Do It Again” and “Bluebirds over the Mountain” gained significant attention, with the former topping charts in the UK and Australia. Due to Brian Wilson’s hospitalization for mental health issues, production duties largely fell to his brothers Carl and Dennis Wilson, who pieced together unfinished tracks. View on AMAZON
13The Beach Boys Love You 1977300 votesDuring a creative revival in Brian Wilson’s career, the Beach Boys’s 21st album showcased his significant contributions, writing almost all the songs and playing most instruments. Known for its use of synthesizers, the 1977 record only reached No. 53 on the US charts and received mixed reviews. Some fans were put off by its idiosyncratic style, though it later gained appreciation for its uniqueness. Singles like “Good Time” and “Honkin’ Down the Highway” stood out. Recorded at Brother Studios with minimal involvement from other band members, it marked Brian’s most involved project since the late 1960s.View on AMAZON
14Surfin’ USA1963247 votesReleased during the surf music craze, the Beach Boys’s second studio album quickly reached No. 2 on the US charts and stayed there for 78 weeks, eventually being certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America. With production credited to Nick Venet but heavily influenced by Brian Wilson, it was a major success, highlighted by the hit single “Surfin’ U.S.A.” and its B-side, “Shut Down.” The 1963 record featured Wilson’s use of doubletracking vocals for a richer sound. Initially released in the UK in 1965, it peaked at No. 17. Critics praised the album for capturing the carefree spirit of California’s surf culture.View on AMAZON
15Little Deuce Coupe1963232 votesDuring the band’s peak popularity, the Beach Boys’s fourth album revealed their fascination with hot rods and car culture. Reaching No. 4 on the US charts and remaining for 46 weeks, Little Deuce Coupe was eventually certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Despite being rushed, Brian Wilson’s production demonstrated complex song arrangements. Notable tracks included “Little Deuce Coupe,” “409,” and “Shut Down.” The 1963 project also featured a re-recorded version of “Be True to Your School,” which became a top 10 hit. The cover photo, provided by Hot Rod magazine, was of Clarence “Chili” Catallo’s customized 1932 Ford coupe.View on AMAZON
16Shut Down, Volume 21964214 votesDuring significant lineup changes, the Beach Boys’s fifth album saw them without guitarist David Marks for the first time. Produced by Brian Wilson, the record reached No. 13 on the US charts and stayed there for 38 weeks. Despite not receiving any major awards or nominations, it included hit singles like “Fun, Fun, Fun” and “Don’t Worry Baby.” Recorded in early 1964 at Western and Gold Star studios, the sessions highlighted the band’s hot rod rock genre. Rediscovered master tapes in 2009 led to new stereo mixes of key tracks, further enhancing its historical appeal.View on AMAZON
17Surfin’ Safari1962211 votesDropping at the height of surf culture, the Beach Boys’s debut album quickly captured public attention, reaching No. 32 on the US charts and remaining there for 37 weeks. Despite not winning any major awards, it was a commercial success, propelled by hit singles like “Surfin’ Safari” and “409.” Production was credited to Nick Venet but saw substantial contributions from Brian Wilson and his father, Murry. Recording sessions took place in Capitol Records’s basement studios, where the band experimented with arrangements. This debut marked the start of their journey, featuring a blend of original songs and covers that encapsulated the California surf scene.View on AMAZON
18The Beach Boys’ Christmas Album 1964198 votesThe Beach Boys’s holiday-themed seventh studio album achieved impressive success, peaking at No. 6 on Billboard‘s Christmas LPs chart and eventually going gold. Featuring five original songs and seven holiday standards, Brian Wilson produced and arranged the rock tracks while Dick Reynolds handled the orchestral arrangements. Notable songs include “Little Saint Nick” and “The Man with All the Toys,” capturing the festive spirit with the band’s signature harmonies. Despite winning no major awards, it’s celebrated as one of the finest holiday albums of the rock era.View on AMAZON
19That’s Why God Made the Radio2012242 votesCoinciding with the Beach Boys’s 50th anniversary, their 29th and final album was produced by Brian Wilson and represented a significant comeback. Although it did not win any major awards, it received a generally positive reception and debuted at No. 3 on the US Billboard 200 chart. The production saw Wilson reconnecting with old demo tapes from his solo work and blending them seamlessly into new compositions. Featuring the popular single “That’s Why God Made the Radio,” the 2012 album offered a mix of new material and old influences. Despite initial plans, vocals from Carl and Dennis Wilson were absent from the final release.View on AMAZON
20Carl and the Passions – “So Tough” 1972221 votesReleased during a period of lineup changes, the Beach Boys’s 18th album introduced members Blondie Chaplin and Ricky Fataar. Despite peaking at a modest No. 50 in the US and No. 25 in the UK, it failed to produce any chart-topping singles. The 1972 record featured “You Need a Mess of Help to Stand Alone” and “Marcella,” both of which did not chart. Production was split among various band members, with sessions recorded piecemeal across multiple studios. Notably, early pressings included the 1966 classic “Pet Sounds” as a bonus record.View on AMAZON
21Beach Boys’ Party!1965183 votesBeach Boys’ Party!, the band’s 10th studio album, mostly consisted of cover songs but rose to No. 6 in the US and No. 3 in the UK. It didn’t win any major awards, but the single “Barbara Ann” peaked at No. 2 in the US and No. 3 in the UK, becoming their highest-charting British single at the time. Produced by Brian Wilson, the album was recorded in a studio and post-produced to sound like a party, featuring casual chatter and laughter. Among the artists whose hits the Beach Boys covered were The Beatles, The Everly Brothers, and Bob Dylan.View on AMAZON
https://584a238b93ccdbf6a160f12ce448c847.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html
2215 Big Ones1976167 votesWith a promotional campaign centered on Brian Wilson’s studio comeback, the Beach Boys’s 20th album became their best-selling new material in over decade, peaking at No. 8 in the US and earning a gold certification. Though it didn’t win major awards, the 1976 release included notable singles like “Rock and Roll Music,” which reached No. 5, and “It’s OK.” Most tracks were hastily recorded at Brother Studios, featuring a mix of original songs and covers of rock ‘n’ roll and R&B standards. Despite mixed reviews, 15 Big Ones holds historical importance, revealing Wilson’s renewed involvement with the band during a challenging period.View on AMAZON
23M.I.U. Album1978162 votesThe Beach Boys’s 22nd album featured production by Al Jardine and Ron Altbach. It reached a low peak of No. 151 on the US charts and was met with confusion by critics and fans, who often cited it as one of their worst efforts. The 1978 record was recorded mainly at Maharishi International University in Iowa to keep the band away from their usual distractions. Popular tracks include “Hey Little Tomboy” and “My Diane,” the latter written about Brian Wilson’s affair with his sister-in-law. Despite its poor reception, “Come Go with Me” later became a hit when released as a single in 1981.View on AMAZON
24The Beach Boys1985168 votesDuring the grief of losing founding member Dennis Wilson, the Beach Boys’s 25th album marked their first foray into digital recording. Produced by Steve Levine, it included notable guest musicians like Ringo Starr and Stevie Wonder. Despite its innovative production approach, The Beach Boys peaked modestly at No. 52 in the US and No. 60 in the UK. Hit singles included “Getcha Back” and “It’s Gettin’ Late.” Known for its synthesizer-heavy sound, the 1985 record exemplified the band’s effort to modernize their style while maintaining their classic vocal harmonies. Unfinished tracks from the sessions remain a point of intrigue.View on AMAZON
25L.A. (Light Album)2008160 votesThe Beach Boys’s 23rd studio album faced a challenging production period, recorded across multiple studios, including Brother and Criteria. Despite the turmoil, it included hit singles like “Good Timin’,” which reached No. 40 in the US, and “Lady Lynda,” a top 10 hit in the UK. Critically, it was largely panned and peaked at only No. 100 in the US charts. Produced by Bruce Johnston, the band, and manager James William Guercio, the 2008 project was heavily influenced by Dennis Wilson’s solo work, incorporating tracks from his unreleased album Bambu.View on AMAZON
26Keepin’ the Summer Alive1980155 votesKeepin’ the Summer Alive, the Beach Boys’ 24th studio album, was recorded at multiple studios including Western Studio and Al Jardine’s Big Sur barn. It peaked at No. 75 in the US and No. 54 in the UK, without landing any major awards or nominations. Produced by Bruce Johnston, it comprised a mix of new songs and older unreleased tracks. Notable singles include the title track and “Goin’ On,” which were co-written by Carl Wilson and Randy Bachman. This 1980 project became the last album to feature Dennis Wilson before his untimely passing in 1983 due to drowning, adding a layer of poignancy to its legacy.View on AMAZON
27Still Cruisin’1989141 votesDuring a brief return to Capitol Records, the Beach Boys’s 26th studio album included both new tracks and classic hits featured in movies. Despite being panned by critics, it achieved commercial success, peaking at No. 46 on the US Billboard 200 and earning a platinum certification. Produced by Terry Melcher, it featured the popular singles “Kokomo,” which became a No. 1 hit, and “Still Cruisin’.” Brian Wilson’s contribution was limited due to his involvement with Dr. Eugene Landy. The 1989 record combined old favorites like “I Get Around” with new songs, including collaborations with The Fat Boys on “Wipe Out.”View on AMAZON
28Stars and Stripes Vol. 11996125 votesThe Beach Boys’s 28th studio album saw collaborations with country artists and was produced by Joe Thomas and Brian Wilson. Despite its ambition, it peaked at only No. 101 on the US Billboard 200 and No. 12 on the Country Albums chart. The 1996 record was critically panned, with reviews calling it an embarrassment. Notable tracks include “Don’t Worry Baby” with Lorrie Morgan and “I Can Hear Music” with Kathy Troccoli. Distinctive for its blend of pop classics with country, it featured guest appearances by Willie Nelson and Toby Keith, but failed to secure any awards or major nominations.View on AMAZON
29Summer in Paradise1992161 votesThe Beach Boys’s 27th album saw minimal input from Brian Wilson and was produced by Terry Melcher. The 1992 record did not chart in the US or UK and received almost universally negative reviews. Notable tracks include “Hot Fun in the Summertime” and a re-recorded version of “Forever” featuring John Stamos. Summer in Paradise was recorded using the Pro Tools digital audio workstation, a pioneering effort at the time. Despite its poor reception and sales, the album remains a curious piece of the band’s extensive discography, being their last original material before a long break.View on AMAZON