Kai is an excellent summer baby boy name because it has so many meanings that work. The Hawaiian meaning is “sea” and the Japanese meaning is “shell,” both of which are related to the ocean. It can also have Welsh, Scandinavian, and Greek roots, with the meaning “keeper of the keys; earth.” And it’s strong too: in Europe, it’s a form of the word that means “warrior.”

Elio is a popular option with Italian and Spanish origins. The name means “sun,” so it’s ideal for a summertime baby. It’s the Italian version of the Greek name Helios, and Helios is the Greek god of the sun. Elio is so cute and sweet too.

Dylan is a really popular boy’s name, so if you don’t mind having something more common, then this is a great name. The Welsh name means “son of the sea” or “born from the ocean,” so it really fits the theme perfectly.

Another name that means “sun” is Cyrus, which has Persian origins and is very popular in the Iranian community. Cyrus feels strong and regal, and it’s not quite as popular in the United States, so it will definitely feel more unique.

The name Leo can be used on its own, or it can be a nickname to the longer name Leonardo. As just Leo, though, it really makes sense for the summer. Leo means “lion,” but it’s also the name of the astrological sign for babies born between July 23 and August 22, which is the bulk of the summer. Leos are bold, confident, and strong, so this is definitely a good choice.

If you love Lucas but you want something a little more unique, try Luca. Not only is it the name from the wildly popular Disney movie, Luca, but it’s also great for summer. It’s derived from the Latin name Lucas, and means “bringer of light.” It’s a popular Italian option, and we can definitely see it getting big in America too.

Somerset is another really unique option that feels a little old-fashioned and really interesting. It has English origins and means “from the summer settlers.” Sweet and almost regal-sounding, this name is definitely one that will make a statement.

If you want to actually name your baby boy “summer” but you don’t want to use the word “summer,” then name them Theros. The name has Old Greek origins and literally means “summer.” It’s not super popular, meaning that your little one will likely be the only Theros out there.

August is an obvious one, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Why not name your little boy after the last month of summer? August might be the name of a month, but it sounds great as a child’s name too, and it has the cutest nickname: Auggie.

This gender-neutral name has Old English origins and means “day’s settlement” and “bright and sunny town.” Since the perfect summer baby boy name should sound both bright and sunny, this one just makes sense.

What do you think of when you think of the word “ray?” A ray of sunlight, right? That’s basically exactly what Ray means. This is a great option if you’re looking for a name that feels more traditional and common rather than something more unique and out-there. And it’s short and sweet, which is nice sometimes.

Can’t get enough of the beach? Name your baby boy Ocean. This has become a little bit more popular recently, and it’s not hard to see why. Ocean has a strong sound to it, and while it’s a bit unexpected as a name, it works. It can also be a great gender-neutral option as well.

The name Reef probably conjures up images of a colorful and lively coral reef under the sea, which is what makes it work as a summer baby boy name. This is another one you likely won’t hear very often.

Ravi is the name of the Hindu sun good, and also has Sanskrit origins meaning “sun.” Playful, bright, and spunky, Ravi is an adorable baby boy’s name. With a name that means sun, this kid is sure to automatically light up any room he walks into.

Another body of water you can name your child after is the Bay. This different name is short and sweet, and it definitely brings to mind an actual bay. But it also has Latin origins, where it means “berry.” Since berries taste their best in the summertime, this is just another reason this makes for a great summer baby boy name.

Full disclosure: if you’re picturing Sandy Cohen from The O.C., you’re not alone. That said, Sandy is an excellent baby boy name. Not only will it make you think of the beach, but it also means “man’s defender,” which is just so bold.

The English meaning of the name Dax is water, which is kind of unexpected. This short and spunky name will probably make you think of Dax Shepherd, and it is surprisingly unique.

Julian is related to the word July, which, of course, is the month in the middle of the summer. It also means “youthful,” and the summer season always has a sort of playful, young feel to it. Julian is a popular option and works for just about anyone.

This gender-neutral name means exactly what it sounds like: lots of sunshine. It’s perfect for the baby born in the middle of the summertime. Sunny is cute and different, and we like how bright it feels.

Another name that means “ocean” is Arnav, which has Indian origins. The name Arnav feels regal and different, and we like how it has a more subtle connection to the summertime.

There are two meanings to the name Samson. One is a man of extraordinary physical strength. The other is a Hebrew word that means “like the sun.” Either way, you can’t go wrong. And this has a cute nickname: Sam.

Birch is another unique nature-centric option. Of course, it can reference a birch tree, but it also means “bright” and “shining,” which feels right on track with the summertime.

• Sky
• Kano
• Nikko
• Dune
• Finn
• Kir
• Adrian
• Cain
• Sorley
• Caspian
• Hurley
• Keegan
• Lionel
• Ari
• Sage