24 Sun-Kissed Beach Hairstyles to Rock This Summer
Summer is here, and so are the beach vibes! Whether you’re heading to a tropical getaway, hitting the local beach, or just soaking up the sun by the pool, there’s no better time to experiment with beach hairstyles. If you’ve ever looked at someone with effortless, wind-swept hair and thought, “How do they make it look so easy?”—you’re not alone. The secret? The right beach hairstyle that lets the sun and saltwater enhance your natural beauty.
This guide will show you 24 fabulous sun-kissed beach hairstyles that are as stylish as they are practical. Let’s get you ready to catch some waves—literally and figuratively!
1. Messy Beach Waves
There’s a reason messy beach waves are a classic. They give off the perfect “I just got out of the ocean” vibe. If you have naturally wavy hair, all you need is a little sea salt spray, a curling iron (if necessary), and some tousling with your fingers. The goal here is to keep it imperfect—think wind-blown, carefree, and just a touch undone.
Tip: For a more voluminous look, flip your head upside down as you tousle your hair. The messier, the better!
2. Loose Beach Braids
Loose, messy braids are ideal for beach days. They keep hair out of your face while maintaining that laid-back vibe. You can try a side braid, a simple three-strand braid, or even a fishtail braid for something a bit more intricate. Leave some strands loose to frame your face and give it that effortless, sun-kissed look.
Tip: Start your braid a bit lower than usual to keep the style relaxed. You don’t want it too tight or perfect.
3. High Beach Bun
For those super hot beach days when you need your hair completely out of your face, a high beach bun is your best friend. Not only does it keep everything neat, but it also adds a fun, flirty element to your look. To add texture, use a sea salt spray before putting your hair up. This gives your bun a more tousled, beach-ready vibe.
Tip: Secure the bun with a scrunchie for that retro beach look, or use a loose hair tie to maintain the laid-back feel.
4. Beachy Half-Up, Half-Down
The half-up, half-down style is a versatile beach hairstyle that can look both casual and chic. Simply pull the top half of your hair back, leaving the bottom half to cascade in waves. This style works well with both straight and wavy hair. You can add a cute hair accessory—think a seashell clip or a colorful band—just to give it a little extra flair.
Tip: Keep the top section of your hair loose and relaxed to balance the volume of the bottom half.
5. Curly Beach Hair
If you have curly hair, embrace it! Beach curls are not only trendy but practical for summer. All you need is a good curl-enhancing mousse or a bit of sea salt spray. Let your curls air-dry to let them develop that perfect beachy texture, or use a diffuser for extra volume.
Tip: Use a lightweight curl cream to avoid any frizz, and scrunch your curls to keep them defined and full of life.
6. Side Part with Soft Waves
For a more sophisticated yet still beachy look, try a deep side part combined with soft waves. This hairstyle adds volume and drama to your beach-day look without requiring too much effort. A few waves with a curling wand can do wonders here, making your hair look effortless but still polished.
Tip: Use a texturizing spray to enhance the wave and volume, giving your hair that beachy texture without feeling sticky or heavy.
7. Slicked-Back Beach Style
If you’re aiming for something sleek and modern, the slicked-back look can still give you that sun-kissed beach appearance. This works particularly well with straight hair, though anyone with a bit of wave can pull it off. To achieve this, apply a generous amount of sea salt spray or hair gel and comb your hair back. The idea is to create a polished yet beach-ready style.
Tip: Keep the rest of your hair smooth and free from frizz for the most elegant version of the slicked-back beach look.
8. Top Knot with Beachy Waves
The top knot is a great option when you want to keep your hair up but still show off some waves. Combine the top knot with a few loose beachy waves for a relaxed, put-together look. It’s effortless but chic and ideal for those beach days when you want to look cute without too much work.
Tip: You can wrap a strand of hair around the base of the top knot to hide the elastic and give it a more polished finish.
9. The Surfer Girl Ponytail
This style is ideal for those who want their hair out of the way without sacrificing style. The surfer girl ponytail is loose, messy, and full of volume. Leave a few strands out around your face for that natural, windswept look. It’s perfect if you’re going for a sporty vibe but still want to keep things stylish.
Tip: Texturizing spray will help add volume and keep your ponytail looking full and fluffy.
10. Salt-Sprayed Hair with a Headband
One of the easiest ways to achieve beach hair without much effort is by using a headband to complement salt-sprayed hair. The headband adds a little extra flair while keeping your hair off your face—ideal for those really sunny days. This look can be done with both straight and curly hair, so it’s incredibly versatile.
Tip: Opt for a lightweight headband made of a fabric like cotton or linen for ultimate comfort and style.
11. Loose Waves with a Wide-Brim Hat
A wide-brim hat adds a chic touch while protecting your face from the sun, and when paired with loose waves, you have the ultimate beach hairstyle. Let your hair flow freely, and the hat will help keep everything in place. It’s an effortless, boho-chic style that will make you look like you just stepped off the pages of a travel magazine.
Tip: Leave a few wispy strands hanging loose by your face to create a more natural, carefree look.
12. Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids, also known as inverted braids, give off a fun, athletic vibe while still being super stylish. This hairstyle keeps your hair secure while you’re active on the beach, yet still looks chic and trendy. Plus, when you take the braids out, you’ll have gorgeous waves!
Tip: To make the braids more voluminous, gently tug at them after securing to give them that lived-in beach look.
13. Beachy Crown Braid
A crown braid is a beautiful and practical beach hairstyle. It keeps your hair out of your face while giving you a whimsical, romantic look. You can either do a full crown braid or a half crown, depending on the vibe you want. This look is great for a beach wedding or any event that calls for something a little extra.
Tip: Leave a few face-framing pieces of hair out for a more relaxed version of this classic braid.
14. Windswept Pixie
If you’ve got short hair, don’t think beach waves aren’t for you! A windswept pixie cut gives off major beach vibes. Simply tousle your hair with a bit of sea salt spray for texture, and let it fall naturally. This style is perfect for those who want something low-maintenance but still incredibly chic.
Tip: Use a lightweight texturizing cream to add volume and definition to your pixie cut.
15. Beachy Twist-Out
A twist-out is a great way to enhance the natural texture of curly or wavy hair. To achieve a beachy twist-out, apply a leave-in conditioner and twist sections of your hair before letting them dry. Once you undo the twists, you’ll be left with beautifully defined waves that scream beach day.
Tip: Use a curl cream or gel to ensure the twist-out lasts all day and maintains its bounce.
16. Low Beach Bun with Loose Strands
For a simple yet elegant beach hairstyle, try a low bun with loose strands. This style is perfect for when you want to look put together, but still want to embrace the sun-kissed, relaxed vibe of the beach. It’s perfect for days where you’re lounging in the sun, or even if you’re strolling along the shore.
Tip: Keep the bun low and loosely secured for that effortlessly chic style.
17. Slicked Low Ponytail
The slicked low ponytail is one of those hairstyles that look polished without trying too hard. Combine a sleek, low ponytail with some sea salt spray for texture, and you’ve got a beach-ready look that works for both casual and formal beach occasions.
Tip: Use a clear elastic to secure the ponytail, and wrap a piece of hair around it for a more refined finish.
18. Textured Lob
For those with medium-length hair, a textured lob (long bob) is a perfect beach hairstyle. The combination of layers and beachy texture works wonders, and you don’t need to do much—just a bit of salt spray and a few tousles, and you’re good to go!
Tip: Use a light-hold hairspray to maintain the texture without weighing your hair down.
19. Flirty Finger Waves
Channel vintage vibes with flirty finger waves for a glamorous yet laid-back beach look. This works particularly well if you’re aiming for a sophisticated beach look, especially if you’re spending time in a luxurious beachfront location. You can use a curling iron to create tight curls and then brush them out to form waves.
Tip: Set your waves with hairspray to keep them in place all day.
20. Loose Twisted Halo
The loose twisted halo is a delicate, bohemian-inspired hairstyle that works perfectly on the beach. You start by twisting two sections of hair from each side of your head, then pulling them over to meet at the back. This creates a halo-like effect that is both beachy and ethereal.
Tip: Use bobby pins to secure the twists gently, keeping them soft and relaxed.
21. Soft Beachy Curls
If you prefer tighter curls, you can still rock the beachy vibe! Soft, bouncy curls give off a fun, playful look that’s perfect for the beach. A curling wand will help you get this look, but remember to leave out the ends for a more natural curl.
Tip: Apply a light mousse or cream to hold the curls in place without them feeling stiff.
22. Slicked-Back French Twist
A slicked-back French twist isn’t just for the office; it can work for the beach too. This elegant updo, when paired with sun-kissed waves, can create a chic, glamorous look. It’s perfect for a day at a beach party or even a beach wedding.
Tip: Make sure to add a bit of texturizing spray to the ends of your hair for that beachy effect.
23. Beach Waves with a Bandana
Throwing on a bandana with your beach waves is a great way to add personality to your look. The bandana keeps the hair out of your face while giving it a cool, retro touch. It’s an easy way to elevate your beach hairstyle without much effort.
Tip: Choose a bandana that contrasts with your swimwear or outfit to make the accessory pop.
24. Voluminous Beachy Blowout
Finally, if you’re looking for something with more volume, a beachy blowout is the way to go. Use a round brush and blow-dry your hair while adding texture with a sea salt spray or mousse. The result is big, voluminous waves that will turn heads on the beach.
Tip: For extra volume, try blow-drying your hair upside down.
These 24 beach hairstyles will have you ready for any beach day, whether you’re lounging in the sand or diving into the surf. Each style is easy to replicate and versatile enough to suit any occasion. So go ahead, embrace the sun, the sea, and the sand—and rock your best beach hair ever!
