17 Beach Hairstyles with Waves, Braids and Relaxed Updos

Sun, sand, and sea air demand hair that looks effortlessly cool. Finding the perfect balance between style and durability is essential for any coastal outing.

These 17 beach hairstyles with waves, braids and relaxed updos offer the ultimate inspiration. They handle the humidity while keeping you looking polished from sunrise to sunset.

Whether you prefer loose textures or secure braids, there is a look here for every hair type. Get ready to embrace the salt-water vibe with these stunning selections.

1. Classic Beach Waves

Classic beach waves are the quintessential look for any seaside excursion. This style mimics the natural texture created by salt water and ocean breezes, offering a relaxed and voluminous appearance.

To achieve this, use a sea salt spray on damp hair and scrunch upward. If your hair is naturally straight, a large-barrel curling wand can help create those loose, irregular bends.

The beauty of this style lies in its imperfection. Do not worry about symmetry; the goal is a lived-in look that actually improves as the wind tosses it around throughout the day.

2. Boho Fishtail Braid

A fishtail braid provides an intricate aesthetic that looks far more complicated than it actually is. It is a fantastic way to keep hair secure while maintaining a bohemian, free-spirited energy.

Start by splitting your hair into two even sections. Cross small pieces from the outer edge of one section over to the inside of the opposite section, repeating until you reach the ends.

For a true beach vibe, gently pull the loops of the braid apart once finished. This “pancaking” technique creates a thicker, more relaxed silhouette that complements casual beachwear perfectly.

3. Messy Low Bun

The messy low bun is the ultimate solution for windy days by the shore. It keeps the hair off the neck while allowing a few face-framing strands to dance in the breeze.

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Gather the hair at the nape of the neck and secure it loosely with a soft elastic. Twist the length around the base and pin it haphazardly to maintain that “undone” feel.

This style is particularly effective for transitioning from a swim to a seaside cafe. It hides salt-clumped ends and creates a chic, effortless profile that works on almost any hair length.

4. Half-Up Top Knot

A half-up top knot offers the best of both worlds by keeping hair out of the eyes while showing off length. It is a playful, modern choice for a day spent on the sand.

Section off the top third of the hair, from the temples to the crown. Secure this portion into a small, messy bun right at the top of the head using a scrunchie or pins.

Leave the remaining bottom half loose and textured. If the humidity starts to kick in, the added volume in the loose section only enhances the overall carefree aesthetic of the style.

5. Dutch Braid Pigtails

Dutch braid pigtails are ideal for active beach days, such as playing volleyball or surfing. Because the hair is braided tightly against the scalp, it stays secure regardless of movement.

Unlike French braids, Dutch braids involve crossing sections under rather than over. This creates a “3D” effect where the braids sit prominently on top of the hair, adding great visual interest.

These braids are excellent for preventing tangles caused by salt and wind. When you take them out at the end of the day, you will be left with beautiful, heat-free crimped waves.

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6. Side-Swept Braided Crown

The side-swept braided crown adds a touch of elegance to a relaxed beach day. It involves a single braid that starts at one temple and wraps around the back of the head.

This style works beautifully with wavy hair, as the braid acts as a natural headband. It keeps the front sections of the hair tucked away while letting the rest flow freely over the shoulder.

To finish the look, use a few U-shaped pins to tuck the end of the braid under the loose hair. It creates a seamless, circular flow that looks romantic and sophisticated under the sun.

7. Relaxed French Twist

A traditional French twist can feel stiff, but a relaxed version is perfect for the coast. It involves a looser grip and a few strategic stray hairs to soften the overall shape.

Gather the hair at the back and begin twisting upward, tucking the ends inside the roll. Secure with a large claw clip or several large pins for a sturdy yet soft hold.

This is an excellent “dry hair” style for when you want to look put-together after a long day of sunbathing. It keeps you cool by lifting the hair completely off your shoulders and back.

8. Bubble Ponytail

The bubble ponytail is a high-fashion look that requires very little technical skill. It is a fun, graphic way to manage long hair and prevent it from matting in the sea air.

Start with a standard high or mid-height ponytail. Place additional elastics every two or three inches down the length of the hair, then pull the sections outward to create “bubbles.”

Use colorful elastics or clear bands depending on your personal style. This look is incredibly durable and stays intact even if you are dipping in and out of the water all day.

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9. Scarf-Wrapped Ponytail

Adding an accessory is the easiest way to elevate a simple hairstyle. A silk or cotton scarf wrapped around a low ponytail adds instant color and a vintage coastal vibe.

Tie your hair back with a sturdy elastic first to ensure the ponytail stays in place. Then, loop the scarf around the base and let the ends hang long with the hair.

The scarf not only looks beautiful but also helps protect the hair from direct UV exposure. It is a functional and fashionable choice for those spending several hours under the sun.

10. Twisted Halo Braid

If you are not a fan of traditional braiding, a twisted halo is a great alternative. It uses two-strand twists to create a crown-like effect around the head.

Take two sections from the front and twist them around each other, adding more hair as you move toward the back. Repeat on the other side and pin the two ends together.

This style is wonderful for keeping hair secure without the tension that some braids can cause. It results in soft, romantic loops that look stunning when paired with a light sundress.

11. Pineapple Updo

The pineapple updo is a go-to for those with natural curls or high-volume texture. It involves gathering the hair at the very front of the crown so the curls “fountain” forward.

This technique prevents curls from being crushed and maintains their definition. Use a soft fabric scrunchie to avoid creating any harsh lines or breakage in the hair fibers.

It is a bold, breezy look that celebrates natural volume. Because the hair is concentrated on top, it stays away from the neck, keeping you cool during the hottest parts of the day.

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12. Salt-Textured Shag

For shorter hair lengths, a salt-textured shag is the ultimate beach look. It relies on layers and products to create a gritty, cool-girl aesthetic that thrives in humidity.

Apply a texturizing paste or spray to damp hair and use your fingers to direct the layers. The goal is to create movement and “piecey-ness” throughout the crown and ends.

This style is incredibly low-maintenance because it is meant to look a bit wild. If the wind blows your hair around, simply shake it out with your hands to restore the volume.

13. Waterfall Braid with Waves

The waterfall braid is a stunning choice for those who want to showcase their waves. It involves a horizontal braid where sections of hair are “dropped” through the weave.

This creates a cascading effect that looks like water flowing down the back of the head. It is best paired with loose, tonged waves to emphasize the vertical lines of the style.

While it looks delicate, it is surprisingly effective at keeping the top layers of hair from blowing into your face. It is a favorite for seaside events or sunset dinners on the beach.

14. Double Dutch Low Buns

Double Dutch low buns offer a sporty and youthful energy. This style starts with two Dutch braids that lead into two small buns at the nape of the neck.

By braiding the hair first, you ensure that even the shorter layers around the face are tucked away. The buns at the bottom provide a neat finish that stays secure during activity.

This is an excellent choice for a full day of swimming. Even if the buns get wet, the structure of the braids remains, keeping your hair organized and manageable.

15. Pull-Through Braid

The pull-through braid is a “faux” braid created using a series of ponytails. It offers incredible volume and thickness, making it ideal for those with finer hair textures.

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By looping one ponytail through another, you create a sturdy chain that looks like a giant braid. It is much more wind-resistant than a standard three-strand braid.

This style is perfect for showing off highlights or multi-tonal hair colors. The way the sections overlap catches the light beautifully, making it a highly photogenic beach option.

16. Loose Chignon with Tendrils

A chignon is a classic knot that sits at the base of the head. For the beach, the key is to keep it loose and allow soft “tendrils” to escape around the ears and forehead.

This style provides a sophisticated silhouette without looking overly formal. It is easily achieved by rolling the hair into a horizontal bun and securing it with wide-grip pins.

The loose tendrils help to soften the features and embrace the natural humidity. It is a graceful look that works just as well with a swimsuit as it does with a maxi dress.

17. Braided Headband with Loose Curls

A braided headband is a functional way to manage bangs or shorter front layers. By braiding a small section across the hairline, you create a built-in accessory.

Pair the braid with loose, voluminous curls for the rest of the hair. This contrast between the structured braid and the wild curls creates a beautiful, balanced aesthetic.

This style is perfect for those who want to keep their hair down but hate the feeling of strands sticking to their lip gloss in the breeze. It is the ultimate “best of both worlds” beach look.

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How do I prevent my hair from tangling at the beach?

The best way to prevent tangles is to apply a leave-in conditioner before you arrive. This creates a barrier against salt and sand. Additionally, keeping your hair in a secure braid rather than letting it fly loose will significantly reduce knots.

What are the best products for creating beach waves?

Sea salt sprays are the gold standard for creating that gritty, textured look. However, if your hair is naturally dry, consider using a sugar spray instead. Sugar sprays provide similar texture and “grip” but offer a more hydrating finish than salt-based products.

Can these styles be done on short hair?

Absolutely, many of these looks are highly adaptable. Styles like the salt-textured shag, the half-up top knot, and the braided headband work exceptionally well on bobs and lobs. For very short hair, focus on using texture-enhancing products to embrace the beachy vibe.

How can I protect my hair and scalp from the sun?

Hair can get sunburned just like skin, leading to dryness and color fading. Use a hair-specific SPF spray or wear a wide-brimmed hat. Many of the updos mentioned here also help by keeping the most sensitive parts of the scalp covered.

Are these styles durable enough for windy conditions?

The braided options, such as Dutch pigtails or the bubble ponytail, are specifically designed for high-wind environments. If you choose a looser style, like classic waves, be prepared to embrace a bit of “messiness” as part of the intended aesthetic.

How do I transition these looks from the beach to a formal dinner?

A quick way to transition is to carry a small bottle of hair oil to smooth down frizz. If you wore braids all day, you can unravel them for beautiful heat-free waves. Adding a jeweled clip or a clean silk scarf can also instantly elevate a casual daytime look.