21+ Effortless Beach Hairstyles – Tress Nails

18. Fishtail Braid

15+ Effortless Beach Hairstyles: Salty Waves, Chic Braids & Easy Updos. - 18. Fishtail Braid

A fishtail braid looks way more complicated than it is, I promise! Instead of three sections, you only use two. You take small strands from the outside of each section and cross them over to the inside of the other. It gives off such a cool, bohemian feel. It works on lots of different hair types, from fine to thick. My secret for that perfect messy fishtail? Gently pull the sides apart when you’re done to loosen it up.

17. High Ponytail

15+ Effortless Beach Hairstyles: Salty Waves, Chic Braids & Easy Updos. - 17. High Ponytail

You can’t go wrong with a classic high ponytail at the beach. It’s simple, it’s clean, and it keeps every single strand off your neck and face. It’s practical beauty at its best! This look works for everyone, no matter your age. For a slightly more polished finish, I like to take a small piece of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic, then pin it.

16. Double Braids

15+ Effortless Beach Hairstyles: Salty Waves, Chic Braids & Easy Updos. - 16. Double Braids

Remember wearing pigtail braids as a kid? This is the chic adult version! Just part your hair down the middle and create a braid on each side. It’s such a cute and youthful look that feels just right for the beach. This style looks best if you have medium to long hair. To really nail the relaxed beach vibe, keep your braids loose, not tight.

15. Half-Up Top Knot

15+ Effortless Beach Hairstyles: Salty Waves, Chic Braids & Easy Updos. - 15. Half-Up Top Knot

Can’t decide if you want your hair up or down? The half-up top knot is your answer! You just gather the top section of your hair, like you would for a half-up ponytail, and twist it into a small bun on top of your head. It’s a great balance and keeps the hair out of your eyes while letting some hang down. This works for most hair lengths. The key is not to make the bun too neat; messy is good here!

14. Braided Crown

15+ Effortless Beach Hairstyles: Salty Waves, Chic Braids & Easy Updos. - 14. Braided Crown

This style makes me feel like a beachy goddess! You take a section of hair from near your temple, braid it, and then bring it across your head like a crown, pinning it on the other side. You can do one or two braids meeting in the middle. It’s a really romantic look and super secure for windy beach days. You really need longer hair for this one to wrap the braid all the way around. Make sure you use bobby pins that match your hair color so they disappear.

13. Low Ponytail with Side Part

15+ Effortless Beach Hairstyles: Salty Waves, Chic Braids & Easy Updos. - 13. Low Ponytail with Side Part

Sometimes, the simplest styles are the most chic. A low ponytail with a deep side part is so understated and elegant. It’s a sophisticated twist on a basic look that works perfectly at the beach, especially if you want to look a little more put-together after a swim. This style suits absolutely everyone. If you want it super sleek, a tiny bit of smoothing serum can help tame flyaways.

12. Space Buns

15+ Effortless Beach Hairstyles: Salty Waves, Chic Braids & Easy Updos. - 12. Space Buns

Ready for some fun? Space buns are two little buns placed high up on your head. They are super trendy and have such a playful energy. They’re perfect for adding a bit of personality to your beach look. This style works best if you have medium to long hair. I like to leave some pieces of hair down around my face to soften the look a bit.

11. Scarf Wrap

15+ Effortless Beach Hairstyles: Salty Waves, Chic Braids & Easy Updos. - 11. Scarf Wrap

Not only is a scarf wrap stylish, but it also protects your hair from the sun and wind! There are so many ways to tie a scarf – wrap it like a turban, tie it around a ponytail, or use it as a headband. It’s a fantastic accessory and works no matter how long or short your hair is. Choose a light, breathable fabric like cotton or silk so you don’t get too hot.

10. Half-Up Bun with Braids

15+ Effortless Beach Hairstyles: Salty Waves, Chic Braids & Easy Updos. - 10. Half-Up Bun with Braids

This style adds a little extra detail to the half-up bun. Before you make the bun, take two small sections from the front of your hair and braid them. Then, gather those braids and the rest of the top section into your bun. It looks more intricate than it is! This is lovely on medium to long hair. Use small, clear elastics to secure the ends of your braids before you add them to the bun.