10+ Beachy Hairstyles You’ll Want Every Day (Not Just On Vacay)
Salt in the Air, Hair Don’t Care—Let’s Get Beachy
Whether you’re road-tripping the coast, hopping on a surfboard, or just dreaming of the ocean breeze, there’s something magical about beachy hair. It’s wild, sun-kissed, and somehow always looks like you had a good time—because you did. And the best part? You don’t need to be on vacation to rock that effortlessly cool, salty-hair-don’t-care look. In this guide, you’ll find the cutest, easiest, and most adventure-ready beachy hairstyles.
From breezy braids to messy buns that survive the wind, these styles are made for movement and joy. We’ve also added a few favorite tools and must-haves (bolded for your scroll-happy convenience) that make beach styling a total breeze.
Let’s dive into the waves (and waves of hair inspiration)!
Cute, Easy & Simple Beachy Hairstyles
You don’t need a mirror, stylist, or even a plan—just salt, sun, and a little inspiration. Whether you’re hitting the beach, cruising in a camper, or simply chasing that sunkissed vibe, these styles are made for movement and magic. From waves to braids to buns, these are your go-to looks for wherever adventure calls.
1. Classic Beachy Waves – Undone & Effortless
How to create it:
- Start with towel-dried hair.
- Spritz with Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray for salt-kissed texture.
- Twist hair into two loose buns or braids and let air-dry.
- Release and scrunch for that just-stepped-off-the-beach finish.
Why you want it:
It’s the ultimate beach look—flirty, relaxed, and pairs well with sunsets and sand.
Beach day tips:
- Refresh with OUAI Wave Spray.
- Let it evolve during the day—it only gets better with movement.
- Avoid brushing to keep that natural wave shape intact.
2. Messy Bun – Low Effort, High Style
How to create it:
- Pull your hair into a high ponytail.
- Twist and wrap into a loose bun.
- Secure with a silk scrunchie or spiral coil tie.
- Let strands fall naturally for that messy charm.
Why you want it:
It’s fast, flattering, and keeps your hair off your neck during hot, sticky afternoons.
Beach day tips:
- Use Amika Dry Shampoo for added texture.
- Embrace the mess—it only adds to the laid-back vibe.
- Pair with oversized sunnies and a big grin.
3. Side Braid – Windproof & Romantic
How to create it:
- Sweep all your hair to one side.
- Braid loosely and secure with a clear elastic band.
- Gently tug sections for a full, lived-in look.
Why you want it:
It’s perfect for beach dinners, bike rides, and that golden hour selfie.
Beach day tips:
- Spritz with leave-in conditioner for shine and control.
- Re-tighten only if needed—it looks best slightly loose.
- Add a hair ring or charm for a boho twist.
4. Double Dutch Braids – Adventure-Ready
How to create it:
- Part hair down the center.
- Dutch braid both sides (braid under instead of over).
- Secure ends with elastics or coil into buns.
Why you want it:
Great for active days—think kayaking, hiking dunes, or running barefoot on the sand.
Beach day tips:
- Start with Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Cream to avoid frizz.
- Secure flyaways with a light styling gel.
- Add a bandana if you need extra sun protection.
5. Half-Up Top Knot – Light & Breezy
How to create it:
- Take the top third of your hair and twist into a small bun.
- Secure with a mini claw clip or elastic.
- Let the rest of your hair hang loose and wild.
Why you want it:
It’s the best of both worlds—keeps hair out of your face while still showing off your waves.
Beach day tips:
- Use Moroccanoil Root Boost for lift.
- Add texturizing spray to the bottom half for extra volume.
- Leave it loose and let it evolve—this one only improves as the day goes on.
6. Mini Boho Braids – Tiny Details, Big Impact
How to create it:
- Leave hair down and natural.
- Braid small, random sections and tie with micro elastics.
- Optional: Thread a gold hair ring or bead for a little sparkle.
Why you want it:
It gives you that effortlessly cool, just-finished-a-surf-lesson look.
Beach day tips:
- Prep hair with a styling pomade for grip.
- Use a hydrating oil like Verb Ghost Oil if frizz pops up.
- Perfect combo with a straw hat or beach wrap.
7. Fishtail Braid – Elegant Meets Wild
How to create it:
- Divide hair in two sections.
- Take small strands from the outer edge of one section and cross into the other.
- Continue down and tie off at the end.
Why you want it:
It’s a little more elevated but still looks amazing when undone by ocean air.
Beach day tips:
- Start with a dab of beach cream for hold.
- Secure the ends tightly—they can loosen with movement.
- Tug the braid apart slightly for a fuller, relaxed finish.
8. Bubble Ponytail – Playful & Secure
How to create it:
- Tie your hair into a low or high ponytail.
- Add elastics every 2–3 inches down the length.
- Gently pull each “bubble” to puff it out.
Why you want it:
It’s fun, youthful, and holds its shape—even after diving into waves.
Beach day tips:
- Use Frizz-Ease Serum to keep each bubble smooth.
- Works great with wet hair too!
- Add a ribbon or scrunchie to the top for extra color.
9. Scarf-Wrapped Bun – Chic with a Twist
How to create it:
- Pull hair into a low bun.
- Tie a lightweight scarf around the base and let the ends hang or knot them into the bun.
Why you want it:
Adds flair to a simple style and protects your hair from sun and salt.
Beach day tips:
- Choose a silk or cotton scarf that dries quickly.
- Secure with hidden bobby pins if it’s breezy.
- Bonus: keeps your scalp shaded.
10. Low Braided Ponytail – Sleek & Travel-Ready
How to create it:
- Comb hair back into a low ponytail.
- Braid the ponytail down and tie the end.
Why you want it:
It’s simple, secure, and works whether your hair is wet, dry, or somewhere in between.
Beach day tips:
- Start with Garnier Sleek & Shine Cream for a polished look.
- Add a sun hat to complete the look and protect your hairline.
- This one’s perfect for road trip detours and lunch stops.
11. Crown Braid – Secure & Sun-Kissed
How to create it:
- Create two braids (one from each side).
- Cross them over your head and pin them like a crown.
Why you want it:
It keeps everything off your face and neck—perfect for beach yoga or festival days.
Beach day tips:
- Use invisible bobby pins and texturizing spray for hold.
- Spritz ends with hydrating mist if they get dry in the sun.
- Works best on second- or third-day hair.
12. Wet Hair Slick Back – No-Fuss, All Glam
How to create it:
- Start with freshly rinsed or wet hair.
- Comb back with a leave-in conditioner or gel cream.
- Let it air dry slicked back for a high-fashion beach look.
Why you want it:
Great for transitioning from beach to dinner without a full redo. Super low maintenance and sultry.
Beach day tips:
- Use IGK Rich Kid Coconut Oil Gel for shine and hold.
- Pair with statement earrings and a flowy dress.
- Tames even the wildest beach curls or frizz.
☀️ From classic waves to crown braids, now you’ve got a whole lineup of adventure-proof hairstyles to try on your next beach day.
Up next: Want to know which tools, sprays, and accessories are worth packing for your travels? Keep reading for our Beach Hair Toolkit—the essentials that help you look breezy and bold wherever the road takes you…
Beach Hair Toolkit
You’ve got the styles—now here’s what to pack to make them happen. Whether you’re traveling in a camper, hopping between surf spots, or just need your hair to keep up with your adventures, these essentials will help you style quickly, protect your strands, and stay fabulous from sunrise to sunset.
1. Sea Salt Spray
For instant texture and volume without the crunch, a good salt spray is your beach hair BFF.
✨ Try: Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray or Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Spray
💡 Use it on damp or dry hair for easy, tousled waves.
2. Dry Shampoo
When you skip the shower but still want volume and freshness, dry shampoo saves the day.
✨ Try: Amika Dry Shampoo
💡 Adds texture and removes oil—plus it smells like vacation in a can.
3. Leave-In Conditioner or UV-Protecting Spray
Salt and sun can fry your ends. Hydration and UV protection keep your beach hair shiny, not straw-like.
✨ Try: Sun Bum 3-in-1 Leave In Conditioner or Ouai Leave-In Conditioner
💡 Spray before styling to detangle, protect, and fight frizz all day.
4. Texturizing Powder or Cream
Adds grip to braids, volume to buns, and structure to those “I woke up like this” styles.
✨ Try: Kristin Ess Dry Finish Working Texture Spray or Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray
💡 Great for fine or freshly washed hair that needs a little boost.
5. Spiral Hair Ties & Silk Scrunchies
Prevent creases, breakage, and tangles—even when hair’s wet or salty.
✨ Try: Invisibobble Hair Rings and Slip Silk Scrunchies
💡 Perfect for buns, ponies, and beach braids without the damage.
6. Mini Claw Clips & Bobby Pins
Tiny but mighty. These tools help you twist, secure, and tame your look—no matter how windy it gets.
✨ Try: Kitsch Mini Claw Clips or Goody No-Slip Bobby Pins
💡 Toss a few in your beach bag for on-the-go fixes.
7. Wide-Tooth Comb or Wet Brush
Detangle gently after a swim or shower—especially when your hair’s fragile from saltwater.
✨ Try: Wet Brush Original Detangler or The Body Shop Detangling Comb
💡 Always start at the ends and work up to prevent breakage.
8. Lightweight Scarf or Headband
Functional and stylish. Use to protect your scalp, tame frizz, or turn a simple pony into a whole look.
✨ Try: Kitsch Satin Hair Scarves or Lele Sadoughi Knotted Headbands
💡 A lifesaver on windy boardwalk days or bad hair mornings.
9. Portable Styling Kit
If you’re road-tripping or camping, having a few compact tools makes it easy to freshen up.
✨ Try: Revlon Travel Folding Blow Dryer and Bed Head A-Wave-We-Go Adjustable Waver
💡 Optional but fun if you want next-level looks on the go.
☀️ With these tools in your beach bag or camper cabinet, you’re ready for anything—from surf days to road detours to spontaneous sunset dinners. Style like the carefree adventurer you are.
Ready to Rock That Beach Hair Glow?
Now you’ve got 12 beachy hairstyles, the travel-tested toolkit, and all the salty confidence you need to look amazing—even after a dip in the sea or a day of camper exploring.
Whether you’re chasing waves, chasing kids, or just chasing joy, your hair is part of the story. Let it be wild, sun-kissed, and full of freedom. And when in doubt? Throw it in a bun, spritz a little texture spray, and let your smile do the styling.
Loved these tips? Save this post for your next trip, share it with your beach bestie, or pin your favorite style to try later. Your next adventure (and your next good hair day) starts now.
💛 Stay salty. Stay stylish. Stay you.
