24 Medium Length Hairstyles With Beach Waves

Finding the perfect balance between high-maintenance long hair and the commitment of a short crop can be a challenge, but medium length hairstyles with beach waves offer the ultimate versatile solution. This timeless look provides enough length for variety while remaining incredibly easy to manage for those with active, modern lifestyles. Whether you are aiming for a relaxed vacation vibe or a polished professional aesthetic, these waves add the necessary texture and volume to flatter every face shape. In this comprehensive guide, we explore twenty-four stunning ways to wear medium length hairstyles with beach waves to help you find your next signature look.

1. Classic Tousled Waves

Classic tousled waves represent the quintessential standard for effortless beauty when exploring medium length hairstyles with beach waves. This style relies on loose curls that mimic the natural texture of a day spent at the coast. It works exceptionally well for individuals with fine hair who require a boost of volume and movement. By incorporating a high-quality sea salt spray, you can enhance the definition without causing the strands to feel heavy. This versatile look is ideal for casual weekend outings or professional environments where a relaxed aesthetic is desired. The beauty of this style lies in its intentional imperfection, making it very easy to maintain. It provides a vibrant, youthful energy that complements various face shapes and fashion choices.

2. Textured Lob with Waves

The textured long bob, or lob, is a sophisticated take on medium length hairstyles with beach waves that adds modern edge. This cut typically features blunt ends paired with internal layers to create a sense of depth and airiness. It is a fantastic choice for those who want to transition from longer hair without losing too much styling potential. Using a flat iron to create “S” waves gives this look a more contemporary and urban feel. This style excels at framing the face and highlighting the jawline for a very flattering silhouette. It is low-maintenance enough for daily wear but can be easily elevated for formal evening events. Most hair types can carry this look, especially those with naturally straight or slightly wavy hair.

3. Sun-Kissed Golden Waves

Sun-kissed golden waves bring a warm and radiant energy to the medium length hairstyles with beach waves category. This look is heavily defined by its color, utilizing warm blonde highlights to emphasize the peaks and valleys of each wave. It is the perfect choice for the summer season or for anyone looking to brighten their complexion year-round. The highlights create a three-dimensional effect that makes the hair appear thicker and more vibrant than it actually is. It works best for those with warm skin tones who want a natural, beachy glow. To maintain this look, using a color-protecting serum is essential to keep the golden tones from turning brassy. The resulting aesthetic is one of health, vitality, and eternal summer charm.

4. Soft Romantic Waves

Soft romantic waves offer a more polished and feminine approach to the traditional beachy texture. Unlike the messier versions, these waves are more uniform and gentle, creating a flowing movement that looks incredibly elegant. This style is particularly well-suited for medium length hair as it allows the curls to sit comfortably on the shoulders. It is a top choice for date nights, weddings, or any occasion where you want to appear particularly graceful. Using a larger barrel curling wand helps to achieve the soft, rounded shape that defines this specific look. Finishing with a light-hold hairspray ensures the waves stay in place without losing their natural bounce. It is a timeless choice that exudes sophistication and quiet confidence.

5. Deep Side Part Waves

A deep side part completely transforms the silhouette of medium length hairstyles with beach waves by adding dramatic volume at the roots. This styling choice creates an asymmetrical look that is both edgy and high-fashion in its execution. It is an excellent technique for individuals with thinner hair who want to create the illusion of massive density. By flipping the hair to one side, you create a natural lift that draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones. This look works beautifully for evening events where you want a bit more glamour and presence. To keep the part crisp, a small amount of styling gel or a firm-hold spray at the root is recommended. It is a simple adjustment that yields a high-impact, stylish result.

6. Waves with Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs are a perfect companion for medium length hairstyles with beach waves because they blend seamlessly into the textured lengths. These bangs frame the face on both sides, creating a soft, retro-inspired aesthetic that is currently very trendy. This combination is ideal for softening a high forehead or balancing out longer face shapes effectively. The waves should start just below the level of the bangs to ensure a cohesive and natural flow. This style offers a bohemian vibe that feels relaxed and chic without requiring hours of styling time. It is a great way to update your look without making a drastic change to your overall hair length. Regular trims for the bangs will keep this style looking fresh and intentional.

7. Messy Bedhead Waves

The messy bedhead look is all about embracing a “woke up like this” vibe while maintaining a sense of style. Among medium length hairstyles with beach waves, this version is the most relaxed and focuses on heavy texture and matte finishes. It is best achieved using a combination of dry shampoo and texturizing paste to create separation between the strands. This style is perfect for those with an edgy personal fashion sense who prefer a non-traditional aesthetic. It works exceptionally well on second-day hair, making it a functional choice for busy individuals. The goal is to avoid any sense of perfection, allowing the waves to fall naturally in different directions. It provides a cool, effortless energy that works well for concerts or casual hangouts.

8. Polished S-Waves

Polished S-waves provide a sleek and controlled version of the beachy trend for those who prefer a tidier appearance. This style is characterized by smooth, ribbon-like waves that follow a consistent “S” pattern throughout the hair. It is a highly professional look that transitions perfectly from the boardroom to a fancy dinner. Achieving this requires a bit more precision with a curling iron and a thorough brushing once the curls have cooled. The result is a glossy, high-shine finish that looks very expensive and well-cared for. It is best for medium length hair because the weight of the hair helps pull the waves into that specific shape. This style highlights the health of the hair and works beautifully with solid hair colors.

9. Caramel Balayage Waves

Caramel balayage waves utilize hand-painted color techniques to add incredible depth to medium length hairstyles with beach waves. The warm caramel tones are strategically placed where the sun would naturally hit the hair, enhancing the movement of the waves. This color choice is universally flattering and adds a sense of richness to brown or dark blonde base colors. The waves help to showcase the transition between the different shades, creating a seamless and natural blend. It is a low-maintenance color option because the roots are kept natural, allowing for a soft grow-out phase. This look is perfect for individuals who want a sophisticated, multi-tonal appearance that feels both sun-drenched and luxurious. Proper hydration is key to keeping the caramel tones looking vibrant and healthy.

10. Half-Up Half-Down Waves

The half-up half-down style is a functional and stylish way to manage medium length hairstyles with beach waves during a busy day. By securing the top section of the hair, you keep it away from your face while still showing off the textured waves below. This look can be customized with clips, buns, or small braids to suit your personal style. It is an excellent choice for work or outdoor activities where you need to be active without sacrificing your aesthetic. The contrast between the pulled-back top and the voluminous waves creates a dynamic and interesting silhouette. It works for all hair densities and can help manage volume for those with very thick hair. This styling option is both practical and undeniably charming for any casual occasion.

11. Blunt Cut Beach Waves

A blunt cut adds a sense of thickness and modernity to medium length hairstyles with beach waves by keeping the ends uniform. Unlike layered cuts, the blunt edge provides a heavy base that makes the waves look more substantial and intentional. This style is particularly effective for those with fine hair who want to avoid wispy or thin-looking ends. When waved, the blunt ends create a cool, chunky texture that feels very current in the fashion world. It provides a sharp contrast between the soft movement of the waves and the hard line of the cut. This look is very easy to style at home since you don’t have to worry about managing different layer lengths. It projects a sense of confidence and minimalist style.

12. Ash Blonde Cool Waves

Ash blonde waves offer a cool-toned alternative to the traditional golden beach look, providing a sophisticated and icy aesthetic. This color choice works best for individuals with cool skin undertones who want a high-fashion, modern hair color. The beachy waves prevent the ash blonde from looking too flat or dull by adding light-reflecting texture. This style requires consistent use of purple shampoo to maintain the cool tones and prevent yellowing over time. It is a striking look that stands out in a crowd and feels very intentional and curated. The medium length is ideal for this color as it allows for enough movement without the maintenance of very long hair. It is a perfect choice for those who love a clean, Scandinavian-inspired beauty look.

13. Face-Framing Layered Waves

Face-framing layers are essential for customizing medium length hairstyles with beach waves to suit your specific facial structure. These shorter pieces start around the chin or cheekbones, drawing the eye upward and highlighting your best features. When combined with beach waves, these layers create a soft, cascading effect that adds a lot of personality to the cut. It is a great way to add “lift” to the hair and prevent it from looking weighed down. This style is particularly helpful for those with round or square face shapes who want to create a more oval appearance. The layers also make the styling process easier as they react more readily to heat tools. It results in a bouncy, energetic look that feels very personalized.

14. Volume-Boosted Waves

For those who believe bigger is better, volume-boosted waves provide a glamorous and high-impact version of the beachy trend. This style focuses on creating lift at the roots and expansive width through the mid-lengths of the hair. Using a volumizing mousse before blow-drying is a crucial step in achieving this substantial and dramatic look. It is an ideal choice for special events or photography where you want your hair to be the focal point. The medium length keeps the volume manageable so it doesn’t become overwhelming or difficult to secure. This look exudes confidence and a sense of “Old Hollywood” glamour mixed with modern coastal texture. It is a powerful way to enhance your natural hair density and create a lasting impression.

15. Shaggy Beach Waves

The shaggy approach to medium length hairstyles with beach waves incorporates a lot of choppy layers and texture for a rock-and-roll vibe. This cut is all about movement and “shattered” ends, which makes the beach waves look even more effortless and lived-in. It is a fantastic option for someone who wants a low-maintenance style that looks better as the day goes on. The shag cut naturally encourages hair to wave, making it a great choice for those with a bit of natural texture. Using a texturizing spray or wax helps to define the different layers and keeps the look from becoming a single mass. It is a trendy, youthful choice that feels rebellious yet feminine at the same time. This style is perfect for those who want to spend minimal time with a curling iron.

16. Copper Toned Waves

Copper toned waves offer a vibrant and fiery take on medium length hairstyles with beach waves that is sure to turn heads. The warmth of the copper color adds a beautiful depth to the waves, making them appear like flickering flames. This look is particularly stunning on those with fair skin and green or blue eyes, as it creates a striking contrast. Because copper can fade quickly, using color-depositing conditioners is a smart way to keep the waves looking fresh. The waves themselves help to break up the intense color, giving it a more natural and dimensional appearance. This style feels very warm and inviting, making it a great choice for the autumn and winter months. It combines the playfulness of beachy texture with the boldness of a statement color.

17. Waves with Wispy Bangs

Wispy bangs add a delicate and ethereal quality to medium length hairstyles with beach waves. Unlike heavy curtain bangs, these are thin and see-through, providing a soft fringe that doesn’t overwhelm the face. This combination is perfect for a bohemian or “French girl” aesthetic that feels effortlessly chic and artistic. The lightness of the bangs matches the airy texture of the beach waves perfectly for a cohesive look. This style is very forgiving and works well for those with smaller foreheads who still want to experiment with bangs. It requires very little styling, as the bangs look best when they are slightly irregular and natural. This look is ideal for anyone who wants a subtle, pretty change to their daily hairstyle.

18. Sleek Crown to Wavy Ends

The sleek crown to wavy ends style offers a sophisticated contrast that is very popular on fashion runways. By keeping the top of the head smooth and flat, the focus is shifted entirely to the voluminous waves at the bottom. This approach to medium length hairstyles with beach waves is very modern and feels more “editorial” than the standard look. It is a great way to manage frizz at the roots while still enjoying the texture of waves through the lengths. You can achieve the sleek top with a bit of hair oil or a smoothing serum and a fine-tooth comb. This style works exceptionally well for formal events where you want a look that is both disciplined and playful. It provides a clean, polished frame for the face while maintaining a fun energy.

19. Bohemian Braided Waves

Bohemian braided waves incorporate small, delicate braids into the loose beachy texture for a whimsical and intricate look. This style is a favorite for music festivals, outdoor weddings, or any event with a free-spirited theme. The braids can be placed near the face to act as a natural headband or hidden throughout the waves for a surprise element. This addition adds a handcrafted feel to medium length hairstyles with beach waves that is very charming. It is a great way to hide growing-out bangs or to add a bit of extra security to your style. You don’t need to be an expert braider to achieve this, as simple three-strand braids work perfectly. The resulting aesthetic is one of creativity, femininity, and relaxed coastal elegance.

20. Money Piece Waves

The “money piece” involves brightening the two front sections of the hair to create a bold, face-framing highlight. When paired with medium length hairstyles with beach waves, this color technique draws immediate attention to the face and brightens the overall look. It is a high-contrast style that feels very contemporary and is favored by many modern influencers. The waves help to blend the bright front pieces into the rest of the hair, preventing the look from feeling too harsh. This is a perfect option for someone who wants to experiment with blonde without committing to a full head of highlights. It is a relatively quick salon service that provides a massive transformation in your overall appearance. The money piece adds a trendy, “it-girl” energy to the classic beachy wave.

21. Natural Air-Dried Waves

Natural air-dried waves are the ultimate in low-maintenance medium length hairstyles with beach waves. This style relies on your hair’s natural texture, enhanced only by a few well-chosen products and the air around you. It is the healthiest way to wear your hair, as it involves no heat damage from blow dryers or curling irons. This look is perfect for the beach, the gym, or slow weekend mornings where styling isn’t a priority. To achieve the best results, apply a leave-in conditioner or a curl-defining cream to damp hair and avoid touching it while it dries. The result is a completely unique and organic texture that looks effortlessly cool. It celebrates your hair’s natural state while keeping it looking groomed and intentional.

22. Retro Inspired Waves

Retro inspired waves take the beachy trend and add a touch of 1970s glamour with high volume and outward-facing curls. This look often features a middle part and waves that are brushed away from the face to create a “winged” effect. It is a fantastic choice for those who love vintage fashion and want their hair to match their personal style. The medium length is perfect for this as it provides enough weight to keep the “wings” from looking too theatrical. This style is all about movement and bounce, so using a flexible-hold hairspray is key to maintaining the shape. It provides a fun, energetic vibe that feels both nostalgic and incredibly fresh for today’s trends. This look is great for making a statement without being overly complicated to style.

23. Pastel Tinted Waves

Pastel tinted waves add a touch of fantasy to medium length hairstyles with beach waves by incorporating soft shades of pink, lavender, or mint. These light colors look beautiful when woven through textured waves, as the light catches the different tones in the hair. This is a playful and artistic choice for those who aren’t afraid to experiment with non-natural colors. The waves prevent the pastel colors from looking too solid or artificial, giving them a more sophisticated and ethereal feel. Because these colors are typically semi-permanent, it is a great way to change your look for a few weeks without a long-term commitment. It is a style that exudes creativity and a sense of fun, perfect for those with a bold personality. To keep the colors bright, washing with cool water is highly recommended.

24. Tucked Behind Ear Waves

The tucked behind the ear look is a simple yet effective styling trick that adds instant polish to medium length hairstyles with beach waves. By tucking one side of your hair back, you open up your face and highlight your profile and jewelry. This small adjustment creates an asymmetrical silhouette that looks very intentional and “styled.” It is a great way to keep hair out of your eyes while working or eating without having to tie it all back. To keep the hair in place, you can use a decorative bobby pin or a small amount of styling wax behind the ear. This look is sophisticated enough for a formal event but easy enough for a trip to the grocery store. It is a subtle way to add variety to your daily beach wave routine.

How do I maintain beach waves overnight?

To keep your waves looking fresh for the next day, try sleeping with your hair in a loose braid or a “pineapple” bun on top of your head. Using a silk or satin pillowcase is also highly recommended to reduce friction and prevent frizz. In the morning, you can simply undo the hair and use a bit of dry shampoo or a light sea salt spray to revive the texture.

Can I get beach waves on straight hair?

Absolutely! While it is easier on hair with natural texture, straight hair can achieve beautiful beach waves using heat tools. A curling wand or a flat iron can be used to create the waves, provided you use a good heat protectant and a texturizing product. The key is to leave the ends straight to give it that authentic, modern beachy feel rather than a traditional curl.

What is the best barrel size for medium length hair?

For medium length hairstyles, a 1-inch or 1.25-inch curling wand is generally considered the best choice. This size creates waves that are loose enough to look natural but tight enough to hold their shape throughout the day. Anything larger might result in waves that fall out too quickly, while anything smaller might create tight curls rather than the desired beachy texture.

Do beach waves work on thick hair?

Yes, beach waves are actually one of the best styles for thick hair because they help manage the bulk and distribute the volume. If your hair is very thick, you may want to ask your stylist for some internal thinning or “invisible layers” to prevent the style from becoming too wide. Using a higher heat setting on your styling tools and working in smaller sections will ensure the waves are defined.

How often should I use sea salt spray?

While sea salt spray is great for texture, it can be drying if used every single day because of the salt content. It is best to use it 2-3 times a week or on days when you specifically want that gritty, beachy finish. On other days, consider using a sugar spray or a moisturizing texturizing cream to achieve a similar look without the drying effects of salt.

Are beach waves suitable for formal events?

Beach waves are incredibly versatile and can definitely be worn to formal events like weddings or galas. To make them look more “formal,” focus on creating more uniform, polished waves and perhaps add a sleek side part or a decorative hair accessory. Pairing the waves with a high-shine serum can also elevate the look from casual to sophisticated in just a few minutes.

1. Classic Tousled Waves

2. Textured Lob with Waves

3. Sun-Kissed Golden Waves

More Amazing Ideas

4. Soft Romantic Waves

5. Deep Side Part Waves

6. Waves with Curtain Bangs

7. Messy Bedhead Waves

8. Polished S-Waves

More Amazing Ideas

9. Caramel Balayage Waves

10. Half-Up Half-Down Waves

11. Blunt Cut Beach Waves

12. Ash Blonde Cool Waves

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13. Face-Framing Layered Waves

14. Volume-Boosted Waves

15. Shaggy Beach Waves

16. Copper Toned Waves

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17. Waves with Wispy Bangs

18. Sleek Crown to Wavy Ends

19. Bohemian Braided Waves

20. Money Piece Waves

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21. Natural Air-Dried Waves

22. Retro Inspired Waves

23. Pastel Tinted Waves

More Amazing Ideas

24. Tucked Behind Ear Waves

How do I maintain beach waves overnight?

Can I get beach waves on straight hair?

What is the best barrel size for medium length hair?

Do beach waves work on thick hair?

How often should I use sea salt spray?

Are beach waves suitable for formal events?