The meaning and story of Jon Pardi's song "Marina Del Rey" revolves around a bittersweet farewell and the lingering memories of a past relationship. The song describes a couple who shared a special time together in Marina Del Rey, a coastal city in California. The protagonist recalls saying goodbye to his love, with her telling him that she had a good time. As he leaves on a plane back to Tennessee, memories of their time together in Marina Del Rey flood his mind. The lyrics depict a hidden beach under a golden sun where the couple spent their time, spreading a blanket and immersing themselves in love. They felt like they were in a paradise, lost in each other's eyes and bodies. However, as the chorus suggests, love can sometimes be fleeting, coming and going like the ocean tides. Despite physically leaving Marina Del Rey, the protagonist finds that his heart remains connected to the memories and emotions of that time spent with his love. Tears fill his eyes upon touching down, as he realizes that although he has physically left, his heart has stayed behind in Marina Del Rey. The song portrays the longing and nostalgia for a past love, specifically tied to the memories made in Marina Del Rey. It captures both the romantic essence of the location and the emotional impact it had on the characters' lives.
