Oh, the beach! Just hearing the word makes me feel instantly relaxed. Sun, sand, and that amazing salty air – it’s pure bliss. But let’s be real, figuring out what to do with your hair when you’re heading to the coast can be a little tricky. You want to look cute, of course, but you also need something that can handle the humidity and maybe even a dip in the ocean.
That’s where 15+ effortless beach hairstyles come in! As Ella Kohn, a beauty editor who practically lives for a good beach day, I’ve tried just about every trick in the book to keep my hair looking its best without spending forever on it. My goal is always effortless beauty, because who wants to fuss with complicated styles when the waves are calling?
I’ve rounded up some of my absolute favorites, from easy updos that keep you cool to chic braids and those perfect salty waves we all dream of. Whether your hair is long or short, thick or fine, I’m sure you’ll find a few new go-to looks here. Get ready to embrace that relaxed beach vibe!
Your Guide to Effortless Beach Hair
Ready to dive into some easy styles? I’ve put together a list of 22 beautiful looks perfect for the beach. Let’s start with style number 22, one of my absolute favorites for keeping cool and looking chic.
22. The Low Messy Bun
This style is a beach day hero. It’s super simple: just gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a bun. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the messier, the better! It keeps your hair off your neck in the heat. Plus, that salty texture the beach gives your hair? It actually helps hold this bun in place. It works for so many different ages and face shapes. A little tip: pull out a few small pieces around your face for a softer vibe.
21. Twisted Half-Up
This is one of those looks that seems fancy but takes seconds. You just grab a section of hair from each side, twist them back, and pin them together. It’s great for getting your hair out of your eyes without putting it all up. This works well whether your hair is medium length or long. For a really seamless look, I like to use a clear elastic to join the twisted pieces before I pin them.
20. Bubble Ponytail
Okay, this one is just plain fun! You make a regular ponytail, then add more elastics down the length, creating little “bubbles” in between. It has such a playful feel that’s perfect for a sunny beach day. This style really shines on longer hair where you have more length to create those bubbles. Just gently pull each section between the elastics to get that bubbly effect.
19. Simple Headband Tuck
Talk about fast! Grab a stretchy headband and put it over your hair. Then, take sections of hair from the bottom and tuck them up and over the headband. Keep tucking until all your hair is secured. This is amazing for medium to long hair and takes like, a minute. Using a headband with some texture helps it grip your hair better so it stays put.
18. Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid looks way more complicated than it is, I promise! Instead of three sections, you only use two. You take small strands from the outside of each section and cross them over to the inside of the other. It gives off such a cool, bohemian feel. It works on lots of different hair types, from fine to thick. My secret for that perfect messy fishtail? Gently pull the sides apart when you’re done to loosen it up.
17. High Ponytail
You can’t go wrong with a classic high ponytail at the beach. It’s simple, it’s clean, and it keeps every single strand off your neck and face. It’s practical beauty at its best! This look works for everyone, no matter your age. For a slightly more polished finish, I like to take a small piece of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic, then pin it.
16. Double Braids
Remember wearing pigtail braids as a kid? This is the chic adult version! Just part your hair down the middle and create a braid on each side. It’s such a cute and youthful look that feels just right for the beach. This style looks best if you have medium to long hair. To really nail the relaxed beach vibe, keep your braids loose, not tight.
15. Half-Up Top Knot
Can’t decide if you want your hair up or down? The half-up top knot is your answer! You just gather the top section of your hair, like you would for a half-up ponytail, and twist it into a small bun on top of your head. It’s a great balance and keeps the hair out of your eyes while letting some hang down. This works for most hair lengths. The key is not to make the bun too neat; messy is good here!
14. Braided Crown
This style makes me feel like a beachy goddess! You take a section of hair from near your temple, braid it, and then bring it across your head like a crown, pinning it on the other side. You can do one or two braids meeting in the middle. It’s a really romantic look and super secure for windy beach days. You really need longer hair for this one to wrap the braid all the way around. Make sure you use bobby pins that match your hair color so they disappear.
13. Low Ponytail with Side Part
Sometimes, the simplest styles are the most chic. A low ponytail with a deep side part is so understated and elegant. It’s a sophisticated twist on a basic look that works perfectly at the beach, especially if you want to look a little more put-together after a swim. This style suits absolutely everyone. If you want it super sleek, a tiny bit of smoothing serum can help tame flyaways.
12. Space Buns
Ready for some fun? Space buns are two little buns placed high up on your head. They are super trendy and have such a playful energy. They’re perfect for adding a bit of personality to your beach look. This style works best if you have medium to long hair. I like to leave some pieces of hair down around my face to soften the look a bit.
11. Scarf Wrap
Not only is a scarf wrap stylish, but it also protects your hair from the sun and wind! There are so many ways to tie a scarf – wrap it like a turban, tie it around a ponytail, or use it as a headband. It’s a fantastic accessory and works no matter how long or short your hair is. Choose a light, breathable fabric like cotton or silk so you don’t get too hot.
10. Half-Up Bun with Braids
This style adds a little extra detail to the half-up bun. Before you make the bun, take two small sections from the front of your hair and braid them. Then, gather those braids and the rest of the top section into your bun. It looks more intricate than it is! This is lovely on medium to long hair. Use small, clear elastics to secure the ends of your braids before you add them to the bun.
9. Side Braid
A simple braid pulled over to one side is effortlessly romantic and easy to do. It keeps your hair somewhat contained but still feels relaxed and flowy. It works for various hair lengths, from shoulder-length down. To get that relaxed beachy feel, start the braid a little lower down, closer to your ear or shoulder, instead of right at the temple.
8. Messy Half-Up Ponytail
This is the quickest half-up style there is! Just grab the top section of your hair, pull it back loosely, and secure it with an elastic. Let some pieces fall naturally. It’s meant to be quick and casual. This works well for most hair lengths. Using a fabric scrunchie instead of a regular elastic gives it an extra beachy, relaxed vibe.
7. Multiple Small Braids
Adding a few thin braids throughout your hair is a simple way to add texture and visual interest. You don’t need to braid your whole head! Just pick a few random sections and braid them. It gives your hair that cool, effortless textured look. This works for lots of different hair types. Try braiding sections of different thicknesses for a more natural feel.
6. Low Braided Bun
For a really secure updo that will stay put through wind and maybe even a little splash, try braiding your hair first, then wrapping the braid into a low bun at the nape of your neck. It’s elegant and holds up beautifully. This style is easiest if you have longer hair to work with. Make sure you tuck the end of the braid neatly under the bun and pin it well.
5. Half-Up Twist
Similar to the twisted half-up, but even simpler! Just grab a section of hair from each side, twist each section individually, and then pin them together in the back. It’s super fast and keeps the hair out of your face while leaving the rest down. This is great for most hair lengths. Keep the twists loose for a softer, more relaxed look.
4. Beachy Waves
Ah, the iconic beachy waves! That natural, textured look everyone loves. You can get this by spritzing a sea salt spray onto damp hair and scrunching it. Or, braid your damp hair before bed and take the braids out in the morning. It’s the ultimate effortless beach look. This works on most hair types, though it’s easiest on hair that has some natural wave. Scrunching really helps bring out the definition after you apply your product.
3. High Messy Bun
When you need your hair completely off your neck and face, a high messy bun is the way to go. Gather your hair high on your head and twist or wrap it into a bun. Again, don’t aim for perfection. The messier, the better! It’s practical and has that cool, casual look. This works for most hair lengths. Seriously, resist the urge to make it neat; that’s the whole point!
2. Braided Ponytail
Adding a braid to your ponytail makes it more secure and keeps your hair from getting tangled in the wind. You can braid your hair first and then put it into a ponytail, or make a ponytail and then braid the length of it. It’s a neat and tidy style that still feels relaxed. This is best for medium to long hair. Braiding tightly right at the base of the ponytail helps keep everything secure.
1. Loose Waves with a Side Part
My absolute top pick for effortless beach beauty! Soft, loose waves styled with a deep side part just scream glamour without trying too hard. It’s that perfect balance of polished and undone. You can get these waves with a large barrel curling iron or by braiding damp hair overnight. This look works beautifully on most hair types. A deep side part adds instant sophistication to simple waves.
frequently asked questions
I get asked a lot about keeping hair happy and looking good at the beach. The sun, salt, and humidity can be tough! Here are some common questions I hear and my best tips.
How do I protect my hair from sun and salt water at the beach?
Think of your hair like your skin – it needs protection too! I always recommend using hair products with SPF before you head out. Wearing a cute wide-brimmed hat is also a fantastic idea; it shields your scalp and strands. If you’re swimming, rinsing your hair with fresh water right after getting out of the ocean helps wash away some of that drying salt.
What are the best products for achieving beachy waves?
For those perfect, tousled beachy waves, sea salt spray is your best friend. Just spritz it on damp or dry hair and scrunch! Texturizing sprays also work wonders to add grip and volume. And I never go to the beach without a good leave-in conditioner; it helps keep your hair soft and hydrated against the elements.
How can I make my beach hairstyle last all day?
Choosing the right style is key. Braids and buns tend to hold up better than having your hair completely down. For updos, make sure you use enough bobby pins and secure them well. A strong-hold hairspray can help lock everything in place, especially if humidity is an issue. Embrace the natural texture the beach air gives you!
embracing your effortless beach beauty
So there you have it – 22 easy ways to style your hair for a day by the water! Don’t feel like you need to master every single one. Pick a few that you love and give them a try. The whole point is to spend less time on your hair and more time enjoying the sun and sand.
Embracing effortless beach beauty means letting go of perfection. Your hair will get a little messy, and that’s okay! It adds to the charm. As Ella Kohn, I truly believe feeling beautiful at the beach comes from feeling comfortable and happy. Go have fun and rock your gorgeous, easy beach hair!
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