In this bittersweet story of youth, lust, and life, Sonny Dennison catches the allure of Lela, a local temptress. Idolizing a local Don Juan named Dion, Sonny pursues Lela until she seduces him. Under the guidance of his cynical friend, Alfie, Sonny prepares for the loss of his virginity.

Following an hilarious attempt at a first sexual encounter, Sonny and Lela have a brief affair, until she rejects him for an old friend. Cast adrift, Sonny painfully feels the lack of fulfillment in sex for its own sake. After a bout of despondency, he begins to realize the worth of human relationships.

One bright summer day at the beach, Sonny finally awakens to meaning in his life.