15 Beach Hairstyles for Long Hair with Braids, Waves and Loose Updos

Long hair is the ultimate canvas for beach-inspired creativity. From the boardwalk to the shoreline, your locks deserve a style that matches the ocean breeze.

Sun, salt, and sand call for looks that stay secure and look effortless. Finding the right balance between “undone” and “well-kept” is the secret to a perfect beach day.

Whether you prefer intricate braids or free-flowing waves, these styles provide maximum impact. These ideas prioritize texture and movement while keeping long strands manageable in the heat.

Discover the perfect blend of coastal elegance and practical design for your next seaside escape. These fifteen styles are curated to help you embrace your length with confidence.

1. Boho Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is a timeless seaside staple because it looks better as it gets messier. Its intricate weave mimics the patterns of the ocean, making it a natural choice for long hair.

To achieve this look, divide your hair into two sections and cross small outer strands over to the opposite side. Pull the loops slightly loose once finished to create that desired “boho” volume.

This style is particularly effective for long hair because it keeps strands contained against the wind. It transitions perfectly from a morning swim to a sunset dinner by the water.

2. Messy Mermaid Waves

Mermaid waves are the quintessential beach look for those who want to showcase their full length. This style relies on soft, irregular bends in the hair that suggest you just stepped out of the surf.

Achieve this by using a sea salt spray on damp hair or a large-barrel curling wand on dry strands. Focus on the mid-lengths and leave the ends straight for a more authentic, modern finish.

More Amazing Ideas

15 Beach Hairstyles for Long Hair with Braids, Waves and Loose Updos — Read more18 Bun Hairstyles for Long Hair from Classic Chignons to Loose Updos — Read more18 Bun Hairstyles for Long Hair from Classic Chignons to Loose Updos — Read more17 Beach Hairstyles with Waves, Braids and Relaxed Updos — Read more16 College Hairstyles for Long Hair with Braids, Ponytails and Updos — Read more

The beauty of this style lies in its imperfections and natural texture. It allows long hair to move freely while maintaining a deliberate, sun-kissed aesthetic that lasts all day long.

3. Double Dutch Braids with Loose Ends

Double Dutch braids offer a secure and sporty way to manage long hair during active beach activities. By braiding close to the scalp, you ensure that your hair remains tangle-free despite the breeze.

Stop the braiding process at the nape of the neck and let the rest of your long hair flow freely. This creates a beautiful contrast between the structured top and the voluminous, wavy bottom.

This hybrid style is excellent for keeping hair out of your face while maintaining a feminine silhouette. It is a durable choice for those who plan on surfing or playing beach volleyball.

4. Textured Low Bun (Chignon)

A textured low bun is the perfect loose updo for those seeking a more sophisticated coastal vibe. It keeps the hair off the neck, providing relief from the summer heat and humidity.

Start with wavy hair and gather it loosely at the nape, securing it with a soft elastic or pins. Pull out a few face-framing tendrils to ensure the look remains relaxed rather than stiff or formal.

This updo is ideal because it protects the ends of long hair from salt water and excessive sun exposure. It offers a polished look that still feels entirely appropriate for a casual day in the sand.

5. Half-Up Crown Braid

The half-up crown braid offers the best of both worlds by keeping hair out of your eyes while displaying your length. It uses two small braids that meet at the back to create a “crown” effect.

More Amazing Ideas

18 Formal Hairstyles for Medium Hair with Waves, Braids and Updos — Read more15 Retro Hairstyles for Long Hair with Vintage Waves, Curls and Volume — Read more17 Hairstyles for Girls with Long Hair, Braids, Curls and Ponytails — Read more17 Up Hairstyles for Long Hair with Buns, Braids and Textured Finishes — Read more19 Party Hairstyles for Short Hair with Waves, Texture and Creative Updos — Read more

This style works exceptionally well with wavy or curly long hair, as the texture adds grip to the braids. It is a romantic, ethereal look that feels right at home near the crashing waves.

Because the majority of the hair remains down, you still get that flowing beach sensation. However, the braided element ensures your vision stays clear even when the wind picks up.

6. Bubble Braid Ponytail

Bubble braids are a trendy and incredibly easy way to add visual interest to a standard ponytail. This style is perfect for long hair as it creates a series of voluminous “bubbles” down the length.

Simply secure a high ponytail and place elastics every few inches, pulling the hair between them outward to create round shapes. It is much faster than traditional braiding but looks just as intentional.

This style is highly wind-resistant, making it a practical choice for a blustery day on the shore. It keeps long hair from matting while providing a playful and modern silhouette.

7. Waterfall Braid with Beachy Curls

The waterfall braid is an elegant technique where strands are “dropped” through the braid to flow downward. It creates a stunning visual path that highlights the health and length of your hair.

When paired with beachy curls, this style looks incredibly intricate and high-end. It is a fantastic choice for a beach wedding, a tropical photoshoot, or a special resort dinner.

The loose nature of the waterfall technique allows for plenty of movement. It captures the light beautifully, especially when accented by natural sun-kissed highlights or ombre tones.

More Amazing Ideas

18 Party Night Hairstyles with Waves, Braids and Creative Updos — Read more18 Workout Hairstyles for Long Hair with Secure Braids and Ponytails — Read more18 Fancy Hairstyles for Short Hair with Waves, Braids and Elegant Shapes — Read more16 Wedding Guest Hairstyles for Short Hair with Waves and Updos — Read more16 Wedding Guest Hairstyles for Short Hair with Waves and Updos — Read more

8. Side-Swept French Braid

A side-swept French braid is a classic way to manage a heavy mane of long hair. By directing the braid to one side, you create an asymmetrical look that feels fresh and relaxed.

Start the braid at one temple and work diagonally toward the opposite shoulder. This keeps the hair off the back of the neck while allowing the length to drape beautifully over one side.

This style is particularly helpful for managing flyaways caused by humidity. It is a secure, comfortable option that remains stable through hours of walking along the coastline.

9. High Messy Top Knot with a Scarf

The high messy top knot is the ultimate “emergency” beach style that still looks incredibly chic. Gathering long hair at the very top of the head prevents it from getting wet or sandy.

Adding a colorful silk or cotton scarf adds a pop of personality and extra security to the bun. The scarf also helps protect the hair from UV rays, which can be damaging during long exposures.

This loose updo is designed to be effortless, so there is no need for perfection. The more texture and stray hairs that peek through, the more “beach-ready” the final result appears.

10. Dutch Braid Pigtails to Loose Waves

This style starts with tight, inverted Dutch braids on either side of the head for maximum control. As the braids reach the base of the skull, they transition into long, flowing waves.

It is a youthful and energetic look that handles the elements of the beach with ease. The braided sections keep the roots flat and frizz-free, even when the air is thick with salt.

More Amazing Ideas

18 Hairstyles for Gowns with Waves, Braids and Formal Updos — Read more18 Hairstyles for Gowns with Waves, Braids and Formal Updos — Read more17 Gym Hairstyles for Long Hair with Secure Braids and Ponytails — Read more15 Party Hairstyles with Waves, Braids and Creative Updos — Read more19 Birthday Hairstyles for Teens with Braids, Curls and Creative Updos — Read more

The loose ends allow you to show off the true length of your hair. This combination is a favorite for those who want a style that looks great both in and out of the water.

11. Pull-Through Braid

A pull-through braid isn’t actually a braid at all, but a series of linked ponytails. This makes it an excellent choice for those who struggle with traditional braiding techniques on long hair.

It creates an immense amount of volume and thickness, making long hair look even more substantial. It is sturdy and stays in place much better than a standard three-strand braid.

This style is perfect for a day of beach hiking or exploring coastal caves. It provides a 3D effect that looks stunning in photographs against a backdrop of blue water.

12. Loose Rope Twist Side Braid

The rope twist is a two-strand technique that is much faster than a standard braid but offers a unique look. Twisting the sections around each other creates a cord-like effect that is very nautical.

Keep the tension loose to maintain a “beach” feel, allowing some texture to escape the twist. This style is gentle on long hair and helps to prevent the breakage often caused by tighter styles.

Because it only uses two sections, it is easy to redo on the fly if you’ve been swimming. It’s a low-maintenance option for those who want to spend more time in the water and less time styling.

13. Braided Space Bun Half-Up

Space buns offer a fun and trendy alternative to the traditional half-up hairstyle. By adding small braids to the base of the buns, you add a layer of detail that elevates the look.

More Amazing Ideas

16 Curly Wedding Hairstyles with Defined Curls, Waves and Updos — Read more18 80s Hairstyles for Long Hair with Retro Volume, Layers and Curls — Read more19 Wedding Hairstyles for Brides with Braids, Curls and Elegant Updos — Read more17 Graduation Hairstyles for Black Women with Braids, Curls and Updos — Read more17 Graduation Hairstyles for Black Women with Braids, Curls and Updos — Read more

The remaining long hair should be left in natural waves to ground the style. This look is perfect for beach festivals or casual gatherings where you want a bit of personality.

This style keeps the hair away from the face while maintaining a playful silhouette. It is a great way to handle long layers that might otherwise fall forward into your sunscreen.

14. Salt-Sprayed Shaggy Layers

Sometimes the best beach hairstyle is the one that leans entirely into the environment. Salt-sprayed layers celebrate the raw, matte texture that ocean water provides to long hair.

Use a high-quality sea salt spray on damp hair and scrunch upward to encourage natural curls and waves. Avoid brushing the hair once it starts to dry to maintain the “shaggy” definition.

This look is about volume and “wild” beauty rather than structure. It is the easiest style to maintain, as the more the wind blows, the more authentic the look becomes.

15. Loose Gibson Tuck for the Beach

The Gibson tuck is a vintage-inspired updo that can be adapted for a relaxed beach setting. It involves rolling the length of the hair into a pocket created at the nape of the neck.

Keep it loose and airy to avoid looking too formal, securing it with just a few U-shaped pins. It creates a beautiful, soft roll that feels romantic and classic under a wide-brimmed sun hat.

This updo is particularly protective for long hair, as the ends are completely tucked away. It is an excellent choice for a windy afternoon when you want to look elegant without hair flying everywhere.

More Amazing Ideas

19 Hairstyles for Dirty Hair with Buns, Braids and Textured Looks — Read more17 Matching Hairstyles for Friends with Braids, Waves and Creative Details — Read more17 Long Ponytail Hairstyles for Black Women with Sleek and Textured Finishes — Read more19 Hairstyles for Backless Dresses with Updos, Waves and Face-Framing — Read more15 Picture Day Hairstyles for School with Braids, Waves and Polished Looks — Read more

How do I protect my long hair from salt water damage?

Before entering the water, soak your hair with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner. This prevents your hair from absorbing as much salt water, which can lead to dryness and breakage.

Which beach hairstyle is best for very windy days?

The Bubble Braid or Double Dutch Braids are the most secure options. These styles use multiple elastics or tight weaving to keep long hair from tangling or matting in high winds.

Can I achieve beachy waves without using heat tools?

Yes, you can braid your damp hair into two large sections before bed and undo them in the morning. Using a sea salt spray on the resulting waves will provide that “beach” texture without any heat damage.

What is the best way to detangle long hair after a day at the beach?

Wait until you are in the shower and have applied a generous amount of conditioner. Use a wide-tooth comb or a specialized detangling brush, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots.

Are loose updos better than braids for long hair at the beach?

It depends on your goal; braids offer more security and tangle prevention, while loose updos like a messy bun provide better protection for the ends of your hair from sun and salt.

How can I keep my beach hairstyle looking fresh all day?

Carry a small bottle of texturizing spray or dry shampoo to revive volume and manage oil. If your hair gets too frizzy from humidity, adding a small amount of hair oil to the ends can help smooth the look.