20 Summer Beach Hairstyles That Survive Saltwater
There’s nothing quite like a day at the beach: the sound of the waves, the warmth of the sun, and the feel of the ocean breeze. But for your hair, it’s a different story. Saltwater, humidity, and wind are the ultimate styling trio—not for creating beauty, but for crafting frizz, tangles, and a look that screams “I just fought with the sea.” What if you could step out of the water looking even more stylish than when you went in?
Why Saltwater is Your Secret Styling Tool
Before we dive into the styles, let’s reframe saltwater. Yes, it can be drying if you don’t care for your hair afterward, but it’s also a phenomenal natural texturizer. Saltwater absorbs excess oil and adds grit, volume, and that coveted “beachy wave” everyone tries to replicate with products. The key is to start with a hairstyle that harnesses this power. Think braids, twists, and protective updos that will unravel into gorgeous, textured waves as the day goes on, or styles that hold their shape beautifully despite the surf.
The Braid Brigade: Tangle-Proof & Timeless
Braids are the undisputed champions of beach hair. They keep long hair completely controlled, prevent monstrous tangles, and when you take them out, you’re left with stunning, cascading waves.
1. The Classic Fishtail Braid: This bohemian staple looks intricate but is surprisingly simple. It’s perfect for keeping all your hair in one, beautiful piece that won’t whack you in the face during a beach volleyball game.
2. Side-Swept Dutch Braids: Two Dutch braids (braided underhand for a 3D effect) starting at the crown and swept to one side are playful, secure, and prevent the “helmet head” look.
3. Mermaid Braid (Rope Braid): Twist two sections of hair around each other for a sophisticated, sleek look. The saltwater will give the twist extra grip and hold.
4. Braided Crown (Halo Braid): The ultimate romantic style. It keeps hair completely off your face and neck while looking ethereal. It’s also surprisingly secure once pinned.
5. Bubble Braids: Fun, easy, and perfect for all hair lengths. Create ponytails down the length of your hair and gently pull sections to create “bubbles.” The salt air will give the bubbles extra body.
Effortless Updos: Chic & Cool
When the sun is beating down, getting your hair off your skin is a non-negotiable. These updos are designed to look better as the day gets messier.
6. The Textured Messy Bun: Don’t just make a ponytail and wrap it. Tease sections lightly, pull pieces out around your face and neck, and use a light-hold texturizing spray. The humidity will add to the volume.
7. Low Twisted Chignon: A simple, elegant twist at the nape of your neck. Secure with a claw clip or pins. As it loosens, it becomes even more beautiful.
8. Space Buns: Playful and perfect for keeping shorter layers in check. The double-updo ensures balance, even when you’re riding waves.
9. The Claw Clip Updo: The ’90s are back for a reason. Gather damp, saltwater hair, twist, and secure with a large, durable claw clip. It’s instant, elegant, and holds all day.
10. French Twist (Beach Version): A classic made casual. Instead of sleek, start with tousled hair, twist, and pin loosely. Let a few pieces escape for a windswept feel.
Waves & Down Styles: Embrace the Texture
Sometimes you just want to wear your hair down. These styles are designed to work in harmony with the saltwater, not fight it.
11. Pre-Beach Twists: On damp hair, create several small two-strand twists all over your head. Let them dry in the sun. Unravel for perfectly defined, frizz-resistant waves.
12. Half-Up, Half-Down with a Twist: Take the top section of your hair, twist it back, and secure it with a cute clip. This keeps hair out of your eyes while letting the rest flow freely.
13. Accessorized Ponytail: A high or low ponytail becomes beach-ready with a colorful scrunchie or a wrap of silk scarf around the base. It adds style and prevents breakage.
14. Headband Beach Waves: Use a wide, fabric headband to push hair back. It absorbs sweat, adds a pop of color, and encourages your natural waves to form beautifully around your face.
15. The “Salted” Pixie (for short hair): Short hair at the beach is a dream. Work a dab of sea salt spray or just let the ocean do its thing, scrunching for piecey, textured volume.
Protective & Practical Styles
These styles prioritize hair health and super-secure hold, perfect for a full day of active beach fun.
16. Boxer Braids (Tight Cornrows): The most secure style possible. They stay put through swimming, diving, and napping on your towel, and minimize friction and tangles.
17. Gibson Tuck with a Hair Stick: A vintage style that’s incredibly secure once mastered. It uses a single hair stick or chopstick to hold a folded tuck of hair in place—no pins needed.
18. Four-Strand Braid: Slightly thicker and more secure than a traditional three-strand, this braid is a beautiful, durable option for thick, long hair that tends to come loose.
19. Knotted Bun: Create two ponytails, tie them in a knot, and tuck the ends. Secure with pins. It’s a unique, artistic updo that won’t budge.
20. Scarf-Wrapped Low Bun: Combine a low bun with a long silk scarf braided or wrapped around it. It protects your hair from the sun and adds serious style points.
Pro Tips for Beach Hair Longevity & Care
To make any of these styles last and keep your hair healthy, follow these essential tips.
Prep is Key: Before hitting the sand, apply a leave-in conditioner or a light hair oil to the mid-lengths and ends. This creates a barrier against the drying effects of salt and sun.
Embrace Texture Sprays: A salt spray or texturizing spray on damp hair before styling will give your ‘do extra grip and enhance its wave pattern.
Use the Right Accessories: Opt for coated hair elastics (to prevent snagging), claw clips, and fabric scrunchies. Metal clips can heat up in the sun and damage hair.
The Post-Beach Ritual is Non-Negotiable: As soon as you can, rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt and sand. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner or hair mask. This prevents the salt from continuing to dry out your strands.
Ride the Wave to Perfect Beach Hair
Summer at the beach should be about freedom and fun, not a constant battle with your hair. By choosing one of these 20 saltwater-surviving hairstyles, you’re not just preventing tangles—you’re leveraging the ocean’s natural power to create stunning, effortless texture. Whether you opt for the timeless security of a braid, the cool ease of a messy updo, or the carefree vibe of enhanced waves, your hair can be your best beach accessory.
So grab your sunscreen, your favorite hair accessory, and hit the shore with confidence. Your perfect, wind-swept, salt-kissed hair is waiting. The ocean is your stylist now—all you have to do is dive in.
