Looking for the perfect beach hairstyle that combines effortless beauty with practical sun protection? We’ve curated 15 stunning sun-kissed hairstyles that’ll keep you looking fabulous while enjoying those sandy shores and ocean waves.
15 Sun-Kissed Beach Hairstyles to Rock This Summer
- Messy Beach Waves
Beach waves are the quintessential seaside hairstyle that effortlessly captures that just-left-the-ocean look. Simply spray sea salt spray on damp hair, scrunch with your fingers, and let air dry for perfectly imperfect waves that scream summer vibes.
- High Messy Bun
This carefree updo keeps hair off your neck while looking stylishly undone. Gather your hair at the crown of your head, twist it into a bun, and secure with bobby pins. Pull out a few face-framing strands for that relaxed beach goddess effect.
- Braided Crown
A braided crown offers both style and functionality for beach days. Create two braids on either side of your head, then wrap them around like a crown and pin in place. This elegant look keeps hair secure even during active beach games.
- Half-Up Top Knot
The half-up top knot combines the best of both worlds—hair off your face but still showing length. Take the top section of your hair, twist it into a knot, and secure with an elastic. Let the rest flow freely for a look that transitions perfectly from beach to boardwalk.
- Beach Ponytail
A textured, slightly messy ponytail works wonderfully for beach days. Gather hair at whatever height feels comfortable, secure with a snag-free elastic, and pull a few pieces loose around your face for that effortless beachy feel.
- Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids are practical and trendy for beach adventures. Create an inside-out braid on each side of your head from front to nape. This style keeps hair completely contained while swimming and prevents tangling in the wind.
- Side Fishtail Braid
A side fishtail braid brings boho-chic vibes to your beach look. Gather all hair to one side, create a fishtail braid, and gently tug at the edges for a fuller, more relaxed appearance. This intricate yet casual style stands up well to ocean breezes.
- Twisted Headband Updo
This hairstyle uses your own hair as a headband for a natural look. Take a section of hair from behind each ear, twist them separately, bring them to the top of your head, and pin in place. The result is a face-framing style that keeps hair out of your eyes.
- Beach Braid Bun
Combine the security of a braid with the coolness of a bun. Create a low ponytail, braid it completely, then wrap the braid around into a bun and pin. This style stays intact even after a dip in the ocean.
- Tousled Pixie
Short-haired beachgoers can embrace the tousled pixie look. Apply texturizing spray to damp hair, use fingers to create piece-y definition, and let the sea breeze do the rest. This low-maintenance style is perfect for multiple dips in the water.
- Bandana Roll Updo
A colorful bandana adds both style and sun protection to your beach look. Fold the bandana into a band, place at the hairline, tie at the nape, then roll and tuck your hair up and around it. This vintage-inspired style keeps hair completely off your neck.
- Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail offers a playful twist on a classic style. Create a regular ponytail, then add elastics every few inches down the length, gently pulling the sections between elastics for a bubble effect. This eye-catching style stays put during beach activities.
- Twisted Side Braid
A twisted side braid combines elegance with beachy casualness. Create two sections, twist them individually, then twist them together and secure with an elastic. The result is a rope-like braid that looks more complex than it is.
- Beach Bow Bun
The beach bow bun turns your hair into a cute accessory. Create a high ponytail, split it in half, wrap each section around to form a bow shape, and pin in place. This fun style keeps hair up while adding a whimsical touch to your beach outfit.
- Sunrise Accent Braids
Small accent braids scattered throughout loose hair create dimension and prevent hair from flying into your face. Simply braid a few thin sections around your hairline or randomly throughout your hair. These small details add interest while allowing you to enjoy your natural texture.
Effortless Beach Waves: The Classic Summer Look
Beach waves have become the quintessential summer hairstyle, offering that perfect “I just stepped off the shore” vibe without much effort. This relaxed yet chic look enhances your natural texture while giving you that coveted sun-kissed appearance.
How to Achieve Natural-Looking Waves
Creating those perfectly imperfect beach waves doesn’t require professional styling. Air drying your hair instead of using heat tools preserves your natural texture and wave pattern, giving you that authentic beachy look. While your hair is still damp, gently scrunch it with your fingers to encourage natural wave formation, eliminating the need for extensive styling.
For enhanced definition, try braiding your damp hair before bed and unraveling it in the morning for effortless waves. Using a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer can also amplify your natural waves when you’re short on time. Layered haircuts significantly improve the movement and texture of your hair, making beach waves easier to achieve and maintain throughout the day.
Adding beachy highlights that complement your natural hair color enhances the sun-kissed effect, creating dimension that makes waves pop. These highlights can be warm or cool-toned depending on your preference, with dark hair benefiting from products like BlondorPlex for highlights and Color Touch for tone.
Best Products for Long-Lasting Beach Waves
EIMI Ocean Spritz salt spray ranks among the top products for creating authentic beach waves, adding natural-looking texture and providing lasting hold. Texturizing sprays deliver extra volume and grit to fine or limp hair, helping your waves maintain their shape throughout a day of sun and surf.
Beach wave mousse applied to damp hair before air drying offers definition and flexible hold without making your locks feel stiff or crunchy. For those with layered or texturized cuts, these products enhance the natural movement already present in your hair.
Embrace the imperfectly tousled look by avoiding over-styling, as the slightly messy appearance contributes to the authentic beach wave aesthetic. Whether you prefer warm caramel tones or cooler ash highlights, there are sun-kissed styling options suitable for every hair color, making beach waves universally flattering.
Braided Beauty: Practical and Pretty Beach Braids
Braided styles offer the perfect combination of style and function for beach days, keeping your locks secure while looking effortlessly chic.
French Braid Variations for the Beach
French braids become beach-ready with a few relaxed touches that complement your sunny adventures. Create a loose French braid by gathering small sections of hair near your hairline and incorporating additional strands as you move toward the nape of your neck. For a more carefree appearance, gently pull on the braid’s edges to create volume and that coveted undone look. This versatile style works beautifully with sun-kissed highlights, improving the dimensional aspect of your braid. French braids also protect your hair from excessive sun exposure while maintaining a stylish vibe throughout your beach day.
Beach-Proof Fishtail Braids
Fishtail braids deliver both sophistication and practicality for beach outings with their intricate yet secure design. This eye-catching style keeps hair firmly in place during swimming and beach activities while maintaining its structure against wind and humidity. Wear a single fishtail down your back for a classic look or create double fishtail braids for a playful, symmetrical style. The detailed weaving pattern showcases hair color variations beautifully, making it particularly striking for those with sun-kissed highlights or balayage. Mist your completed fishtail with sea salt spray for added texture and staying power throughout your beach adventures.
Dutch Braids
Dutch braids offer a distinctive alternative to traditional braiding techniques, creating a raised, three-dimensional effect perfect for beach days. Starting with three strands at your hairline, cross each section under rather than over to create that signature “inside-out” appearance that stands out against other braided styles. Dutch braids pair wonderfully with beachy waves, especially when styled with a deliberately undone finish for that casual beach aesthetic. Their secure structure prevents hair from blowing in your face during ocean breezes while maintaining your style throughout swimming and sunbathing. Apply a light texturizing spray before braiding to enhance grip and ensure your Dutch braids last all day at the shore.
High Messy Bun: The Ultimate Heat-Beating Style
When temperatures rise at the beach, a high messy bun offers the perfect solution for keeping cool while looking effortlessly stylish. This versatile updo keeps hair off your neck and shoulders while showcasing your sun-kissed highlights.
Quick Tutorial for the Perfect Messy Bun
Creating a beach-ready messy bun requires just a few simple steps. First, gather all your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Next, twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to form a bun shape. Secure your creation with bobby pins, being sure to place them strategically for all-day hold. Leave a few loose strands framing your face for that relaxed, carefree beach vibe. Texturizing spray or sea salt spray like EIMI Ocean Spritz adds essential volume and texture, transforming a simple bun into the perfect beachy updo. For extra dimension, gently pull on sections of the bun to create a fuller, more undone appearance.
Accessories to Elevate Your Beach Bun
The right accessories can transform your high messy bun from simple to stunning. Seashell hair clips add authentic beach charm when tucked into various sections of your bun. Lightweight headbands help keep flyaways at bay while adding a complementary beachy aesthetic to your overall look. Hair ties featuring beach-themed charms such as starfish or seashells bring playful elements to this practical style. Bobby pins in metallic finishes catch the sunlight and enhance your sun-kissed hair color. Colorful scarves woven through or around your bun introduce vibrant pops of color perfect for beach outings. Sunglasses perched atop your head not only complete the beach-ready ensemble but also serve as a functional accessory when the sun gets too bright.
Half-Up Top Knot: Best of Both Worlds
The half-up top knot perfectly combines the elegance of an updo with the casual feel of beach waves, giving you the best of both worlds. This versatile style keeps hair out of your face while still showcasing your sun-kissed locks and natural texture.
Styling Tips for Fine Hair
Fine hair requires special attention when creating a half-up top knot to ensure it doesn’t fall flat. Volumizing products serve as your best allies—apply them directly to your roots before styling to create instant lift. Always opt for lightweight, non-greasy formulas that won’t weigh down delicate strands. Blow-drying your hair upside down forces the roots to stand away from the scalp, creating natural volume without effort. Round brushes work wonders during the drying process by lifting the hair at the roots and creating body throughout your mane. Texturizing spray adds grit and hold to fine hair, making it easier to secure your top knot without slippage. Remember to tease the crown area gently before securing your knot for added height and dimension.
Adding Volume to Your Half-Up Style
Transforming a flat half-up style into a voluminous masterpiece starts with proper technique. Gently tease the roots at your crown before gathering the top section to create natural lift and fullness. Volumizing spray applied directly to the roots provides instant body—flip your head upside down while spraying for maximum effect. Use a fine-tooth comb to slightly backcomb strategic sections, focusing on the crown and around the hairline where visibility matters most. Bobby pins positioned in a crisscross pattern secure the style while maintaining the height you’ve created. For extra volume, pull the top knot slightly looser after securing it, which creates the illusion of thicker hair and a more relaxed beach vibe. Strategic placement of the knot (higher on the head) naturally lifts surrounding hair for a more voluminous appearance. Twisting small sections before incorporating them into your knot adds texture and dimension, helping fine hair appear thicker and more substantial.
Beachy Low Ponytail: Chic and Simple
A low ponytail offers the perfect blend of practicality and style for beach days. This versatile hairstyle keeps hair off your face and neck, making it ideal for hot weather while maintaining a relaxed, effortless look.
Textured vs. Sleek Beach Ponytails
Textured Ponytails capture the quintessential beach vibe with their casual, lived-in appearance. Apply texturizing spray throughout your hair before gathering it into a low ponytail to add volume and that coveted undone look. Gently pull on the edges after securing your ponytail to create a more relaxed, tousled appearance that mimics the effect of a day spent by the ocean.
Sleek Ponytails provide a more polished alternative while still maintaining beach-appropriate style. Start by applying hair serum or oil to smooth flyaways and create a glossy finish before pulling your hair back. This refined ponytail style pairs beautifully with face-framing highlights or lighter hair extensions that replicate the sun-bleached effect of natural beach hair.
Embellishing Your Ponytail for Beach Days
Hair Accessories instantly elevate a simple ponytail into a beach-worthy style statement. Thread seashell clips through your hair tie, wrap a colorful bandana around the base of your ponytail, or use woven hair ties to add texture and coastal charm to your look.
Beach Waves transform an ordinary ponytail into something special. Before gathering your hair, create loose, tousled waves using a curling wand or wide-barrel curling iron. These relaxed waves add dimension and movement to your ponytail, improving its sun-kissed appearance.
Highlights strategically placed around the face immediately create that beach-ready effect. Face-framing balayage or lighter hair extensions in the ponytail mimic the natural lightening effect of days spent in the sun. Subtle color accents like hints of pink or strawberry blonde can add an unexpected twist to your beachy ponytail.
Salt Spray serves as your secret weapon for achieving authentic beach texture. Spritz throughout your hair before styling to enhance natural waves and create that perfectly imperfect, just-left-the-ocean texture that defines the ideal beach ponytail.
Sun-Kissed Beach Braid Crown: Bohemian Royalty
Channel your inner beach goddess with this stunning bohemian crown braid that perfectly complements sun-kissed locks. This regal yet relaxed style keeps hair off your face while creating a statement look that’s perfect for beach days.
Step-by-Step Crown Braid Tutorial
- Prep your hair by thoroughly brushing out any tangles to create a smooth foundation for your braid.
- Section your hair by taking a small portion from near your crown area and dividing it into three equal strands.
- Begin braiding using a traditional three-strand technique, crossing the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the middle.
- Create a relaxed look by gently pulling apart the braided sections to add volume and texture to your crown.
- Continue the braid around your head, working with small sections of hair and maintaining consistent tension.
- Secure as you go with bobby pins placed discreetly underneath the braid to keep everything in place.
- Complete the circle by braiding until you reach the starting point, then tuck the end underneath and secure with pins.
- Finish the style by pulling out a few face-framing tendrils for that effortless beach vibe.
Making Your Braid Crown Last All Day
- Apply light hold hairspray evenly throughout your completed braid crown to set the style without making it stiff or crunchy.
- Secure loose sections with additional bobby pins, placing them strategically where the braid might feel weak or loose.
- Use hair wax or pomade sparingly on any flyaways or frizzy sections to maintain a polished yet beachy appearance.
- Avoid touching your hair excessively during the day, as oils from your fingers can cause the braid to loosen and unravel.
- Cross-cross your pins when securing crucial sections of the braid for maximum hold that withstands beach activities.
- Refresh with dry shampoo if your crown starts to flatten, applying it at the roots to add volume and absorb any excess oil.
- Shield from wind by applying a small amount of anti-humidity spray if you’re spending the day in breezy beach conditions.
Side-Swept Mermaid Hair: Channel Your Inner Ariel
Transform your regular beach look into something magical with side-swept mermaid hair. This enchanting style combines flowing layers starting at the jawline with a captivating side-swept arrangement that mimics the ethereal locks of a sea goddess.
Creating Volume at the Roots
Volume at the roots is essential for achieving authentic mermaid hair that doesn’t fall flat. Root lifters and volumizing sprays should be applied before styling to create that lifted, voluminous base that gives mermaid hair its signature fullness. Teasing techniques can be employed strategically around the crown area to boost height without creating an overly messy appearance. Dry shampoo works wonders for absorbing excess oil while simultaneously adding texture and volume right at the roots. We recommend applying volumizing products when hair is damp, then flipping your head upside down while blow-drying to maximize lift where it matters most.
Products for Mermaid-Worthy Texture
Sea salt spray ranks as the top product for creating authentic mermaid texture, mimicking the natural effect of ocean water on your locks. Texturizing sprays add necessary grit and dimension to your hair, making it appear thicker and more voluminous with that coveted beachy feel. Sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners preserve both the health and color of sun-kissed hair, preventing premature fading of highlights while maintaining essential moisture. Layering these products strategically creates the perfect balance of texture without weighing down your waves or causing unwanted crunchiness. Remember to distribute sea salt spray primarily through mid-lengths and ends rather than saturating the roots for the most natural-looking result.
Bandana Beach Wrap: Retro Vibes
Bandanas offer a perfect blend of functionality and style for your beach hairstyles, adding that coveted retro flair while keeping hair protected from sun and sand. This versatile accessory can transform even the simplest styles into statement looks with minimal effort.
Different Ways to Tie a Beach Bandana
Bandanas can be styled in many ways to complement your sun-kissed beach hairstyles. Wear yours as a classic headband by folding it into a strip and tying it at the nape of your neck for an effortless retro vibe. Transform any ponytail by wrapping a bandana around the base, securing with a knot, and letting the ends hang loose for added dimension. Fold your bandana into a triangle and tie it over your head as a scarf to protect highlighted strands while creating a vintage-inspired look. Create a statement by using your bandana as a top knot wrap, simply securing it around your bun for instant beach-ready style. Braid your bandana into your hair for a colorful accent that elevates beachy waves with unexpected texture and visual interest.
Choosing the Right Bandana for Your Hair Type
Selecting the perfect bandana depends largely on your hair type and the style you’re trying to achieve. Fine hair benefits from lightweight cotton or silk bandanas that won’t weigh down delicate strands while still adding that sun-kissed retro touch. Thick or curly hair works beautifully with sturdier fabric bandanas that can help tame volume while improving your beach waves. Consider choosing bandana colors that complement your sun-kissed highlights—bright colors pop against blonde balayage, while earth tones enhance brunette beach highlights. Pattern size matters too—smaller prints tend to look more refined and vintage-inspired, while larger patterns make bolder statements at the beach. Opt for natural fabrics that absorb moisture and allow your scalp to breathe, especially important when sporting those effortless beach styles under the sun.
Sleek Wet Look: From Ocean to Evening
The sleek wet look hairstyle transitions effortlessly from beach days to elegant evenings, offering a sophisticated alternative to casual beach waves. This versatile style captures the essence of just stepping out of the ocean while maintaining a polished appearance that works for any occasion.
Products for the Perfect Wet Look
Creating the perfect wet look requires exact products that provide both shine and hold. Hair serums and oils like argan oil and coconut oil deliver that glossy, wet appearance while nourishing your strands at the same time. Styling creams and pomades with light hold help smooth the hair and reduce unwanted frizz, maintaining the sleek aesthetic throughout the day. Sea salt sprays can add subtle texture and dimension to your wet look, giving it that authentic beach-inspired finish without compromising the polished appearance. Apply a generous amount of hydrating serum or oil to damp hair first, then layer with styling products for the most natural-looking wet effect. Silicone-based products work particularly well for achieving that high-shine, just-out-of-the-water appearance that defines this elegant style.
Maintaining the Wet Look All Day
Starting with damp hair ensures even product distribution and helps your wet look last significantly longer. Apply your chosen serums, oils, or styling creams to slightly wet hair, working the product through from roots to ends for consistent coverage. Humidity control sprays act as your best defense against frizz and help maintain that sleek appearance even in challenging beach conditions. Throughout the day, perform quick touch-ups with a hydrating mist or apply small amounts of oil to your ends to refresh the wet look. Avoid touching your hair unnecessarily as this can disrupt the sleek finish and introduce unwanted frizz. Carrying a travel-sized bottle of your favorite styling product allows for easy maintenance when you transition from daytime beach activities to evening events. Weather conditions significantly impact how long your wet look will last, so adjust your product application accordingly—using more product for windy beach days and lighter application for calmer conditions.
Beach-Ready Space Buns: Fun and Functional
Space buns have become a beach day essential, offering both style and practicality for sun-soaked adventures. These playful double buns keep hair securely in place while adding a fun, carefree vibe to your beach look.
Full Space Buns vs. Half-Up Space Buns
Full space buns provide maximum protection on scorching beach days by keeping all your hair off your neck and face. Simply part your hair down the middle, create two high ponytails, twist each section around its base, and secure with bobby pins for a heat-beating style. For a more relaxed beach aesthetic, leave a few face-framing strands loose to enhance the carefree vibe.
Half-up space buns offer the perfect compromise for beachgoers who want to showcase their length while keeping hair out of their faces. This versatile style works beautifully with natural texture, allowing the bottom section to flow freely while the top portion stays neatly contained in two cute buns. Many beach lovers prefer this variation for its balance between practicality and style, making it ideal for transitioning from daytime beach activities to evening boardwalk strolls.
Adding Braids to Your Space Buns
Braided space buns elevate this playful style with an extra touch of beachy elegance. Try creating two Dutch braids from your hairline to the crown before twisting them into buns for a sophisticated beach-ready look. Alternatively, incorporate smaller accent braids into each bun section before twisting to add texture and visual interest to your style.
Beach braid embellishments help space buns stay secure even during active beach days filled with volleyball or swimming. The intertwined hair strands create additional grip that prevents your buns from unraveling in sea breezes or during water activities. For maximum hold, use clear elastic bands at the end of each braid before forming your buns, then secure with bobby pins that match your hair color.
These braided variations work exceptionally well on second-day beach hair when natural oils provide extra grip and texture. A light spritz of texturizing spray before braiding enhances the definition and staying power of your braided space buns, ensuring your style lasts from sunrise to sunset on your beach adventure.
Textured Pixie: Short Hair Beach Solutions
The textured pixie cut is perfect for beach days, combining low maintenance with naturally sun-kissed style. Short hair offers major advantages for beachgoers who want to enjoy the sun without endless styling battles.
Beach-Ready Styling for Short Cuts
Short pixie cuts can achieve amazing beach-ready texture with the right approach. Start by applying a light hold styling product to damp hair, working it through with your fingers for even distribution. Volume becomes your best friend when styling short cuts for the beach, so focus on lifting the roots while allowing the ends to take on a piece-y texture. For an instant beachy vibe, apply a small amount of sea salt spray or texturizing spray to add grit and that coveted beach-day finish.
Many short-haired beachgoers find that a combination of products works best – try using a volumizing mousse at the roots followed by texturizing spray on the ends. Finger-styling is essential for pixie cuts, as it creates a more casual, windswept appearance that perfectly complements beach activities. Remember to keep products lightweight to avoid weighing down shorter strands, which can make your pixie look flat rather than beautifully textured.
Salt Spray Tips for Pixie Cuts
Salt spray transforms pixie cuts into beach-ready masterpieces when used correctly. Apply salt spray to damp hair and scrunch it into your locks to enhance natural texture and create that perfect beachy vibe. Focusing the product on the crown and top sections helps create volume where it matters most for short styles.
Dry hair can benefit from salt spray too, especially for mid-day texture refreshes when your pixie starts to fall flat. Using your fingertips to work the product through exact sections gives you more control over the final look. Less is definitely more with salt spray on short hair – start with a light mist and build up gradually to avoid crunchiness or product buildup.
We recommend choosing salt sprays specifically formulated for color-treated hair if your pixie sports highlights or all-over color. EIMI Ocean Spritz works wonderfully for creating textured pixie looks while maintaining color integrity. Consider applying salt spray before bed and sleeping on it for an effortlessly tousled morning beach look that requires minimal styling time.
Bubble Ponytail: Trendy and Beach-Appropriate
The bubble ponytail has emerged as one of the trendiest beach hairstyles, combining playful aesthetics with practical functionality. This eye-catching style keeps your hair secure during beach activities while adding a unique, fashion-forward element to your summer look.
Creating the Perfect Bubble Effect
Achieving the perfect bubble ponytail starts with gathering your hair into a regular ponytail at your desired height. Secure the base with a strong elastic band to create a firm foundation for your style. Add another elastic band about two inches down from the first, then gently pull at the hair between the two bands to create the first “bubble” effect. Continue adding elastic bands down the length of your ponytail, spacing them evenly and pulling at each section to form consistent bubbles. For a more relaxed beach look, leave the bubbles looser and slightly messy rather than perfectly round. Use clear elastic bands for a seamless appearance or colored bands to add a fun element to your beach style.
Securing Your Bubble Ponytail for Swimming
Strong hair ties are essential for maintaining your bubble ponytail during swimming and beach activities. Apply a light hold hairspray between creating each bubble to enhance the staying power without weighing down your style. Transparent silicone bands offer superior grip compared to fabric hair ties when exposed to water. Consider using a swim cap over your bubble ponytail for additional protection against chlorine or saltwater damage, especially if you have color-treated hair. After swimming, rinse your hair with fresh water to remove salt or chlorine, then reapply some texturizing spray to refresh your bubbles. The sectioned nature of this hairstyle makes it particularly resistant to completely falling apart during water activities, as each bubble section helps contain and control your hair.
Beach Scarf Updo: Colorful and Practical
Beach scarves are the perfect accessory for creating stylish yet functional beach hairstyles. These versatile fabric pieces not only protect your hair from sun damage and salt water but also add a vibrant pop of color to your beach look.
Selecting Beach-Friendly Hair Scarves
When choosing the perfect beach scarf for your hair, fabric selection should be your top priority. Cotton and silk scarves offer exceptional breathability and comfort, preventing uncomfortable heat buildup during sun exposure. Light-colored scarves work best for beach settings as they reflect sunlight rather than absorbing heat, keeping your head cooler throughout the day. Soft fabric textures prevent scalp irritation and hair breakage, especially important when your hair is already battling salt water and sun exposure. We recommend selecting scarves with some stretch for better staying power against beach breezes, ensuring your updo remains intact during all your beach activities.
Three Ways to Style a Hair Scarf at the Beach
1. Headband Style
The classic headband style offers immediate relief by keeping sweat and stray hairs away from your face. Simply fold your scarf into a band approximately 2-3 inches wide, then wrap it around your forehead and tie it securely at the nape of your neck or underneath your hair. This style pairs beautifully with loose waves or a messy bun, creating an effortless bohemian beach look while providing practical sun protection for your hairline.
2. Ponytail Wrap
Transform a basic beach ponytail into a statement style by incorporating a colorful scarf. First, secure your hair in a ponytail at your desired height using a strong elastic. Then wrap your scarf around the base of the ponytail, tying it into a bow or knot depending on your preference. The scarf adds vibrant visual interest while simultaneously hiding your hair elastic and securing your style against wind and water activities.
3. Turban Style
The turban style creates a sophisticated beach look while providing maximum coverage for your hair. Start by placing the center of your scarf at the nape of your neck, then bring both ends up and cross them over the top of your head. Twist the ends around each other once or twice before bringing them back to the nape and securing with bobby pins. This style completely protects your hair from sun exposure and salt damage while creating an elegant, vintage-inspired beach look that transitions perfectly from daytime swimming to sunset dinners.
Curly Hair Beach Glory: Embracing Natural Texture
Curly hair and beach days create the perfect partnership for showcasing natural texture. We’ve found that embracing your natural curls at the beach not only saves styling time but also results in that coveted sun-kissed appearance everyone admires.
For beach-ready curls, sea salt sprays can enhance your natural texture while adding that authentic beachy vibe. Air drying becomes your best friend at the shore, maintaining natural curl patterns and reducing unwanted frizz. Light styling products work wonders for definition without weighing down your gorgeous curls.
Hydration Tips for Curly Hair at the Beach
Beach environments can be particularly harsh on curly hair, making hydration absolutely essential. Apply a nourishing hydrating mask before heading to the beach to create a protective barrier against damaging sun rays and drying salt water. This pre-beach treatment will shield your curls throughout the day while maintaining moisture.
Gentle detangling with a wide-tooth comb prevents breakage and preserves your curl pattern when dealing with salty, tangled strands. Leave-in conditioners or moisturizing creams serve as your curls’ best defense against the dehydrating effects of sun and salt water. These hydrating products lock in moisture and keep curls bouncy even after hours of beach play.
Protective Styles for Natural Curls
Bantu knots offer both protection and style for beach days, involving sectioning hair into small parts and twisting into secure knots. This protective style not only shields curls from environmental damage but also creates beautiful defined curls when unraveled later.
Twist-outs provide another excellent beach-day option, allowing you to twist curly hair and let it dry before releasing the twists for perfectly defined curls. This technique gives you control over your curl pattern while minimizing exposure to harsh elements.
Braided styles represent the ultimate beach-friendly protective option for curly hair. Various braiding techniques protect curls from sun damage and salt water while maintaining a stylish, effortless appearance throughout your beach day. French braids, box braids, and simple three-strand braids all work beautifully for curly-haired beachgoers seeking protection without sacrificing style.
Maintaining Healthy Hair While Enjoying Sun-Kissed Styles
We’ve shared our favorite beach hairstyles that combine protection with effortless style. These versatile looks work for all hair types and lengths while keeping your tresses safe from sun salt and wind.
Remember to pack your essentials: a good leave-in conditioner texturizing spray and UV protection products. They’ll help maintain your hair’s health while you rock these stunning styles.
Whether you’re planning a day of surfing sporting a protective braid or heading to a beachside dinner with elegant beach waves we’ve got you covered. These 15 sun-kissed styles prove you don’t have to sacrifice beauty for practicality.
Now you’re ready to hit the sand with confidence knowing your hair will look as gorgeous as the sunset on the horizon!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hairstyles for protecting hair at the beach?
Protective beach hairstyles include braided crowns, high messy buns, double Dutch braids, and bandana updos. These styles keep hair secure from wind, salt water, and sun exposure while looking stylish. Braided styles are particularly effective as they prevent tangling and minimize damage from environmental factors. For maximum protection, consider adding a lightweight scarf or bandana which provides an additional barrier against UV rays.
How can I achieve natural-looking beach waves?
Achieve natural beach waves by applying salt spray to damp hair and scrunching while air drying. Alternatively, braid slightly damp hair before bed and release in the morning for defined waves. Embrace a slightly messy texture rather than perfectly defined curls for an authentic beach look. Products like EIMI Ocean Spritz salt spray enhance natural texture without creating stiffness.
Are there stylish beach hairstyles for short hair?
Absolutely! Short-haired beachgoers can rock tousled pixie cuts with texturizing spray for effortless style. Bandana roll updos work well for short bobs, while half-up styles with mini top knots add playfulness to shorter lengths. Accessorizing with colorful clips or headbands can elevate simple short styles while keeping hair off your face during beach activities.
How do I keep my braids from getting frizzy at the beach?
Prevent frizzy beach braids by applying anti-humidity serum or light oil before braiding. Secure braids with small, clear elastics, and consider spraying with a light hold hairspray. For added protection, finish with a UV-protective spray. If swimming, rinse hair with fresh water afterward to remove salt and sand, which contribute to frizz.
What’s the easiest updo for beach days?
The high messy bun is the easiest beach updo, requiring minimal styling time while providing maximum practicality. To create it, flip your head upside down, gather hair into a high ponytail, twist around the base, and secure with bobby pins. No need for perfection—the messier, the better! This style keeps hair off your neck and shoulders while looking effortlessly chic.
How can I protect curly hair at the beach?
Protect curly hair at the beach by applying leave-in conditioner before swimming and wearing protective styles like Bantu knots, twist-outs, or braided updos. Rinse with fresh water after swimming to remove salt and sand. Consider using a satin-lined cap or colorful scarf for additional protection from sun damage while maintaining moisture in your curls.
What hair accessories work best for beach hairstyles?
Beach-friendly hair accessories include fabric headbands, scrunchies, bobby pins with decorative ends, and colorful scarves. Lightweight materials that won’t snag hair are ideal. Avoid metal clips that can heat up in the sun or heavy accessories that might pull on hair. Waterproof accessories like silicone hair ties are perfect for swimming while maintaining your style.
How do I create a beach scarf updo?
Create a beach scarf updo by folding a lightweight, colorful scarf into a triangle or long strip. For a headband style, wrap around your hairline and tie at the nape. For a ponytail wrap, secure hair in a ponytail and wrap the scarf around the base. For a turban style, cover your entire head and twist at the forehead before tying at the back.
What’s the best hairstyle for transitioning from beach to evening?
The half-up top knot transitions perfectly from beach to evening. This versatile style keeps hair off your face during the day while maintaining length and volume. For evening, simply release the top knot, apply dry shampoo to absorb excess oil, and tousle for instant volume. Add accessories like decorative pins or headbands to elevate the look for dinner or nighttime activities.
How can I maintain my hairstyle while swimming?
Maintain your hairstyle while swimming by opting for secure styles like tight braids or buns. Apply leave-in conditioner beforehand as a protective barrier against chlorine or salt water. Consider wearing a swim cap for complete protection. After swimming, rinse with fresh water immediately and reapply styling products as needed to refresh your look.
