So you have the perfect beach outfit—a swimsuit, cover-up, and sandals formula you’re itching to show off on the sand. You’ve accessorized and applied shimmer oil (bonus points if it has SPF!) from head to toe so your glistening limbs rival the sparkling sea, and your nails are coated in a summer-ready lacquer. The only box left to check is your hairstyle, which is arguably the most difficult feat—at least according to this beauty editor. See, a winning beach hairstyle needs to balance form and function, able to resist the elements (salt, sand, humidity) without appearing too polished so you maintain a breezy, vacation aesthetic. That’s no cakewalk!
“The best beach hair doesn’t look overly styled,” agrees celebrity hairstylist Marcos Diaz. “It looks like the best version of your natural hair.” The biggest mistake, he adds, is actually trying to fight the humidity—because at the end of the day, the weather always wins. “I always tell my clients to work with their natural texture instead of against it. That’s what creates the effortless, expensive-looking hair everyone wants,” he notes. L.A.-based celebrity hairstylist Becca Raziuddin echoes the advice, adding that the best beach styles “keep hair off your face in the heat and actually look better as the day goes on,” so you can hop off the sand and head straight to dinner.
Again, it’s easier said than done, but according to the pros, these 15 looks below will do just the trick. Scroll ahead for some inspiration before your next getaway, along with the exact products you need to nail each style.
15 Beach Hairstyle Ideas for 2026
Claw-Clip Bun
Talk about a low-maintenance ‘do! Claw clips are perfect for keeping strands out of your face (like, say, on a windy beach day) while making your style look chic and intentional. There are plenty of ways you can toss up your lengths—from relaxed pullbacks to elegant French twists—but the classic clipped-up bun will always be a mainstay.
French Twist
When it comes to effortless hairstyles, French combs and pins have arguably the biggest ROI. Read: They’re simple to use (once you get past the slight learning curve) yet make you look like you spent hours fluffing your strands in front of a mirror. As a bonus, they won’t take up much room in your beach bag, whether you opt for one larger pin or a few dainty options.
Textured Bun
Celebrity hairstylist Sabrina Porsche is particularly a fan of the textured bun, which looks even better the more “imperfect” it becomes over time. Simply finger-comb your hair into a twist to create that “undone” effect (don’t worry about smoothing out any bumps), and pull some tendrils out to frame your face. It’s top notch for those with waves and curls to enhance your natural texture, but if you have straighter, finer strands, simply use a texturizing spray or even a curling iron to create a few bends.
Loose Waves
Beach waves, mermaid waves, loose waves… Whatever you decide to call them, they pair perfectly with sun and sand.
Hair Scarf
In terms of hair accessories, Porsche calls the mighty hair scarf “a must” to pull hair out of your face. Stylish options abound, from solid colored to patterned to lace and crochet, and they make a swimsuit outfit look immediately more put-together. Add a few colorful necklaces, and you’re golden.
Baby Braids
For a bit of a Y2K edge, opt for some beachy baby braids. These teeny plaits effortlessly frame the face and flatter every hair type and length—just grab a few clear elastics and perhaps a rat-tail comb to create precise sections. That said, if you have longer strands like Hailey Bieber here, a few mini braids will add some bohemian flair.
Slick-Back Bun
Every hairstylist I spoke to recommended some version of a slick-back bun. “A mid-height, sleek bun is always my first recommendation,” Diaz shares. “It wears beautifully throughout the day, holds up well in humidity, and can be refreshed in just a few minutes before dinner.” Porsche agrees, calling it the perfect beach-to-dinner vacation hairstyle and recommending gel or even just hairspray to create a smooth, flyaway-free crown.
Braided Ponytail
Raziuddin is also a fan of the braided ponytail, which is the perfect way to zhuzh an everyday pullback. You could opt for a single plat, or, like Laura Harrier here, gather your box braids into a chic high pony.
Textured Ponytail
Another way to add intrigue to the everyday ponytail: Keep the crown sleek but fluff up the lengths for a voluminous look. Raziuddin recommends spraying a bit of dry shampoo to create some gravity-defying lift, then smooth the hairline with a boar-bristle brush. “It only takes a few minutes and instantly makes the style feel polished and intentional,” she says.
Half-Up, Half-Down
Ah, the good ol’ half-up, half-down style. A classic for beach days, this effortless ‘do never fails to look stylish, whether you secure your strands with a simple elastic or funky barrette. I, for one, am partial to a cute flower clip, especially if you find yourself on a tropical getaway.
Goddess Braids
Goddess braids (sometimes referred to as bohemian braids) are a type of traditional box or knotless braids that incorporate synthetic or human hair extensions for a loose, tendril effect. They’re perfect for the summer months as they require very little manipulation and are quite versatile in terms of styling, New York–based braider Kamary Mingo previously told us about caring for these braids. Still, the loose ends can frizz and tangle, especially when there’s salty, humid air involved. “To keep frizz and tangles at bay, when applying products such as water, mousse, or conditioning spray, gently comb, brush, or finger detangle any knots as you see them,” Mingo shares.
Bandana
On the subject of hair scarves, a bandana print feels especially on-trend for summer 2026. These Western-inspired accessories add a pop of color to your beach outfit—great for elevating a classic black bikini—and protect your hair and scalp from UV rays (because scalp sunburns are just the worst, aren’t they?). Win, win!
Oversize Scrunchie
Sure, hair accessory trends come and go, but the patterned scrunchie will never truly disappear from our mood boards. “They’re practical for keeping hair in place while adding an effortless vacation vibe,” Raziuddin says regarding oversize silk options.
Wide Headband
For a sporty-chic aesthetic, wide headbands are A+. Feel free to keep it simple with a solid-colored accessory that matches or contrasts with your natural hair hue, or find one with chic embellishments (like paillettes or seashells) for more of a playful, beachy look.
Pigtails
When in doubt, section your hair into two pigtails. Whether you commit to high or low ponytails, braids, or even pigtail buns, the style will look intentionally playful without appearing too “done.”
Shop the Best Products for Beachy Hairstyles
Porsche is quick to recommend this shine-inducing texturizing spray, which results in “that perfect surfer-girl beach look.”
“One of my favorite techniques to achieve some of these looks is to always prep your hair with a leave-in conditioner,” shares Raziuddin. She specifically adores this one from Mane, which keeps her hair nice and hydrated after being exposed to sun and saltwater. It has a superfine mist that sprays evenly too, which is a win for wet and dry lengths.
This cute flower clip adds a tropical touch to your buns, twists, and half-up, half-down styles.
When it comes to beach hairstyles, prep products are just as important as stylers. Healthy, hydrated hair will better cooperate with gels, sprays, and elastics, which is why Diaz encourages nourishing your strands with this fatty acid-rich leave-in. “It smooths frizz, enhances natural texture, and keeps the hair feeling soft without weighing it down,” he says.
For quick touch-ups, Diaz loves this high-quality detangler from La Bonne Brosse. “It gently detangles, smooths the hair, and revives your style without creating unnecessary tension or breakage, making it perfect for transitioning from the beach to an evening out,” he notes.
“One accessory I frequently recommend is the Slip Scunchies,” Diaz adds. “They’re made from silk, so they’re much gentler on the hair than traditional elastics and help minimize creases and breakage while still providing a secure hold. They’re perfect for creating an effortless ponytail or bun without compromising the health of the hair.”
This ornate comb doubles as a piece of art—or hair accessory, if you opt for a French twist. As a tool, though, “it’s incredibly gentle on the hair and helps detangle while minimizing friction and static, making it perfect for refreshing your style after a day at the beach without disrupting your natural texture,” Diaz shares. “I also love how compact it is. It fits easily into a beach bag, purse, or even a pocket, making it incredibly convenient for quick touch-ups throughout the day. It’s the perfect on-the-go summer essential for keeping hair looking polished with minimal effort.”
Instead of a traditional terrycloth towel, use a gentle microfiber number to dry your strands post-dip—and thank me later. According to Diaz, “[it] helps reduce friction and frizz after swimming, making it easier to maintain healthy, beach-ready hair throughout the day.”
If you’re open to using hot tools, a hair waver is a must for loose, effortless beach waves. This one from Mane comes in an adorably mini size you can easily pack in your carry-on for a beach vacation.
