Nothing says summer like effortless, beachy waves!
Whether you’re heading to the ocean or just want that sun-kissed, tousled look, beach wave hairstyles are always in style.
The best part?
You don’t need to be a pro to achieve them! From heat-free methods to curling techniques, I’ll show you how to get those gorgeous waves anytime, anywhere.
20 Beach Wave Hairstyles
1. Loose Boho Waves
Loose boho waves are the epitome of laid-back elegance, making them a staple for any beach day.
This hairstyle is characterized by soft, tousled waves that give your hair a natural, beachy look. To achieve this style, you can use a curling wand, wrapping large sections of hair around the barrel for a few seconds before releasing them.
Finish with a texturizing spray to enhance the waves and add volume. This look is perfect for long hair but can also be adapted for medium-length styles. Pair it with a floral crown or beachy accessories for an enchanting mermaid vibe.
These waves not only complement the sun-kissed skin but also frame your face beautifully, making you feel both beautiful and confident.
2. Messy Braided Waves
Messy braided waves combine the charm of braids with the allure of waves, making for a stunning hairstyle.
Start by creating a few loose braids in your hair before heading to the beach. Once they’re dry, gently unravel the braids to reveal beautifully textured waves. This style is not only cute but also practical, as it keeps your hair secure while you enjoy the sun and surf.
The best part? The messier, the better! These waves exude a playful, carefree vibe, perfect for beach outings or summer festivals. Pair with a sun hat and oversized sunglasses for a chic look.
This hairstyle beautifully showcases your hair’s natural texture while keeping you looking effortlessly stylish.
3. Half-Up Beach Waves
The half-up beach waves style strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and refined.
This hairstyle features loose waves cascading down your back, while the top section is pulled back into a small bun or ponytail. It’s a versatile look that can be dressed up or down, making it ideal for beach parties or casual outings. To create this style, start with your favorite wave technique, then gather the top half of your hair and secure it with a scrunchie or clip.
Consider wrapping a strand of hair around the base of the bun. This hairstyle keeps hair out of your face while still showcasing your beautiful waves. Pair it with a flowy sundress for a romantic touch.
4. Wavy Lob
The wavy lob (long bob) is a trendy choice that perfectly combines sophistication and effortless style.
This hairstyle works beautifully with natural waves, and it’s ideal for those who prefer shorter hair. To achieve this look, use a flat iron to create loose waves, focusing on the mid-lengths of your hair. The key is to keep the ends slightly straight for that chic, undone look.
This versatile style is flattering on all face shapes and can be worn casually or dressed up for a night out. It’s an easy way to channel your inner mermaid while maintaining a polished appearance. Pair it with beachy waves and a bold lip for an eye-catching look.
5. Beachy Pixie Waves
For those with short hair, beachy pixie waves are a fun and flirty option.
This hairstyle embraces the natural texture of your hair, creating soft, tousled waves that are both chic and playful. To achieve the look, apply a lightweight mousse to damp hair and scrunch it as you dry. This will enhance your hair’s natural waves while adding volume and definition.
The pixie cut is perfect for hot summer days, as it keeps your neck cool while looking effortlessly stylish. Pair this look with bold earrings and a bright summer outfit for a fierce and fabulous appearance.
This hairstyle is perfect for those who want to make a statement while keeping things easy and breezy.
6. Retro Waves
Retro waves add a touch of vintage elegance to your beach hairstyle repertoire.
This look is characterized by smooth, defined waves that create a glamorous effect reminiscent of old Hollywood. To achieve retro waves, use a curling iron to create uniform curls, then brush them out gently for a soft, vintage finish.
Secure the waves with a light hairspray to maintain the style while you enjoy your time in the sun. This hairstyle works beautifully for beach weddings or special occasions, offering a sophisticated twist on traditional beach waves. Pair it with a bold red lip and classic sunglasses for a timeless look.
Retro waves are perfect for making a statement while embracing the carefree spirit of summer.
7. Twisted Beach Waves
Twisted beach waves offer a unique take on traditional waves, adding texture and interest to your hairstyle.
Divide your hair into sections and twist each section before applying heat with a curling wand. The result is a gorgeous, textured wave that looks effortlessly chic. This style is perfect for those who want to elevate their beach waves while keeping the overall vibe casual.
Twisted waves work well with both short and long hair, and they pair beautifully with beachy accessories like headbands or flower clips. This hairstyle is not only stylish but also durable, making it ideal for long days at the beach.
Twisted beach waves are perfect for those looking to stand out while maintaining that relaxed summer feel.
8. Side-Swept Waves
Side-swept waves are a romantic and chic option for beach hairstyles, perfect for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their look.
This style involves sweeping your hair to one side while allowing soft waves to cascade down. To achieve this look, create waves using your preferred method, then gather the hair to one side and secure it with a stylish pin or hair tie.
This hairstyle is versatile and works well for both casual beach outings and more formal events. It beautifully showcases your waves while keeping hair off your face, allowing you to enjoy the sun and surf without worry. Pair this hairstyle with a flowy beach dress and delicate jewelry for an enchanting summer look.
9. Curly Beach Waves
Curly beach waves are perfect for those with naturally curly hair who want to embrace their texture while adding a beachy flair.
This look celebrates your curls while enhancing their shape and definition. To achieve curly beach waves, use a curl-enhancing cream and scrunch your hair while it’s damp.
Allow your curls to air dry or use a diffuser to bring out the best in your natural texture. This hairstyle is low-maintenance and perfect for hot summer days, allowing you to enjoy the beach without worrying about frizz. Pair it with a cute bikini or sun dress for a fun summer look.
Curly beach waves are all about embracing your natural beauty and feeling confident in your own skin.
10. Beachy Crown Braid
A beachy crown braid is a stunning and practical way to keep your hair out of your face while still looking beautiful.
This hairstyle features a braid that wraps around your head, resembling a crown. To create this look, braid sections of hair from one side of your head, wrapping it around to the other side and securing it with bobby pins. This style works well with both straight and wavy hair, and it’s perfect for beach days or summer festivals.
Pair it with loose waves or beachy curls that cascade down your back for a magical mermaid effect. The crown braid not only looks gorgeous but also keeps your hair secure while you enjoy the sun and sand.
This hairstyle is all about elegance and ease, making it a perfect choice for summer occasions.
11. Sleek Beach Waves
Sleek beach waves offer a modern and polished take on traditional beach waves, perfect for those who prefer a more refined look.
This style involves creating smooth waves that have a soft, shiny finish. To achieve this look, use a flat iron to create waves, focusing on making them tighter at the roots and looser toward the ends. Finish with a smoothing serum to tame any frizz and add shine.
Sleek beach waves are ideal for both casual beach outings and more formal events, making them a versatile choice for summer. Pair them with statement earrings and a stylish sundress for a chic look.
This hairstyle is all about balance, combining the carefree essence of beach waves with a sleek and sophisticated finish.
12. Tousled Waves with Accessories
Tousled waves are all about that carefree, beachy vibe, and adding accessories can elevate this look to new heights.
To achieve this style, create loose waves using a curling wand or flat iron, then gently tousle them with your fingers to create a relaxed texture. Once you have your waves, add fun accessories like headbands, clips, or floral pins to enhance the look.
These accessories not only add a pop of color and personality but also keep hair secure while you enjoy your beach day. This hairstyle is perfect for festivals or casual outings, allowing for easy styling and personal expression.
Tousled waves with accessories offer a playful and whimsical twist, making you feel like a true mermaid on the beach.
13. Beach Waves with a Headscarf
Incorporating a headscarf into your beach wave hairstyle adds a trendy and chic element to your look.
Begin by creating loose waves in your hair, then select a colorful or patterned headscarf to tie around your head. This style not only keeps your hair in place but also adds a stylish touch that’s perfect for beach days.
Headscarves can be tied in various ways, whether as a turban, a simple band, or even braided into your hair for added flair. This hairstyle is versatile and works well with both short and long hair, allowing you to express your personal style while enjoying the beach.
Beach waves with a headscarf are ideal for creating a fun and fashionable look that captures the spirit of summer.
14. Soft Waves with a Side Braid
Soft waves paired with a side braid create a beautiful and romantic hairstyle perfect for summer.
This look involves creating loose waves in your hair, then taking a small section from one side and braiding it loosely. Secure the braid with a small hair elastic and let the rest of the waves flow freely. This style offers a lovely contrast between the soft waves and the structured braid, making it ideal for both casual and special occasions.
The side braid adds a fun twist to the classic beach waves, allowing you to keep your hair out of your face while showcasing your beautiful locks. Pair this look with a summer dress and delicate jewelry for an enchanting summer vibe.
15. Colorful Beach Waves
Colorful beach waves are a fun and vibrant way to express yourself during the summer.
This style involves adding temporary hair dye or color sprays to your beach waves for a playful twist. You can opt for pastel shades, bold colors, or even a rainbow effect to make your waves pop. Start by creating your beach waves, then apply the hair color to select sections or highlights for a fun and eye-catching look.
This hairstyle is perfect for festivals, beach parties, or simply for making a statement. Pair colorful waves with a bright swimsuit or beach cover-up for a playful summer look.
Colorful beach waves are all about embracing individuality and having fun with your hairstyle.
16. Natural Beach Waves
Natural beach waves celebrate your hair’s unique texture and beauty, perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance style.
To enhance your natural waves, use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream while your hair is damp, then scrunch it with your hands as it dries. This method will amplify your waves without any heat, allowing your hair to shine.
Natural beach waves are incredibly versatile and can be styled in various ways for different occasions, whether casual or formal. This hairstyle is all about embracing your natural beauty and feeling comfortable in your own skin. Pair it with a simple swimsuit or beach cover-up for a laid-back summer look.
17. Vintage Beach Waves
Vintage beach waves offer a nostalgic twist on the classic beach hairstyle, perfect for those who love a retro vibe.
Start with smooth waves created using a curling iron, then brush them out for a soft, romantic finish. Secure a few waves with bobby pins for a vintage-inspired effect. This hairstyle is great for summer events, as it adds a touch of glam while still keeping the beachy feel.
Pair vintage beach waves with a cute sundress and retro sunglasses for a complete look that transports you to a bygone era. This style is all about elegance and fun, making it a perfect choice for summer outings.
18. Glamorous Beach Waves
Glamorous beach waves add a touch of sophistication to your beach hairstyle, perfect for special occasions.
This style involves creating defined waves that are both elegant and effortless. Using a large-barrel curling iron, create soft waves and then gently brush through them for a polished finish. This hairstyle is ideal for beach weddings or upscale summer events, making you look chic while still feeling relaxed.
Pair glamorous beach waves with statement jewelry and a stylish outfit for a sophisticated summer look. This hairstyle is all about balancing elegance with the laid-back spirit of the beach.
19. Sun-Kissed Waves
Sun-kissed waves embody the essence of summer, offering a beautiful, natural look that enhances your hair’s natural beauty.
This hairstyle involves creating soft waves and allowing your hair to air dry in the sun, which naturally enhances your color and texture. To achieve sun-kissed waves, use a UV protection spray to shield your hair from the sun’s rays while enhancing its natural shine.
This style is perfect for casual beach days, allowing you to feel relaxed and carefree. Pair sun-kissed waves with a colorful swimsuit or beach cover-up for a fun, summer-ready look.
Sun-kissed waves are all about embracing the beauty of summer and feeling confident in your own skin.
20. Effortless Beach Waves with a Twist
Effortless beach waves with a twist add a playful and creative element to your hairstyle.
This style incorporates unique braiding or twisting techniques within your waves to create an eye-catching look. To achieve this, start with loose waves, then braid small sections and let them hang out for added texture and interest. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want to stand out while keeping the relaxed beach vibe.
Pair it with fun accessories or colorful hair ties for a bold statement. Effortless beach waves with a twist allow you to express your individuality while embracing the summer spirit.
So grab your hair products and get ready to flaunt your mermaid-worthy waves at the beach this season!
FAQ
How do I get natural-looking beach waves without heat?
Apply salt spray to damp hair, braid it loosely, and let it air dry. When you take out the braids, you’ll have effortless, natural waves!
What is the best tool for creating beach waves?
A curling wand with a 1-inch barrel or a flat iron can create loose waves. Twisting sections of hair before curling helps achieve that natural, tousled effect.
How do I make my beach waves last all day?
Use a lightweight mousse or texturizing spray before styling. Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep your waves intact without stiffness.