This paper presents a simplified approach for the analysis of single piles under lateral loads. The proposed approach is based on the variational approach along with the finite element method" The flexural bending of the pile is modeled by linear-elastic beam elements. The complex phenomenon of the pile-soil interaction is modeled by hyperbolic soil spring. The validity of the approach is assessed through an extensive comparison with the computed results from the p-y method. Results show good agreement with the p-y method.