Summer 2025 is begging for movement. Hair that dances in the wind, stays chic by the ocean, and doesn’t cave under a little humidity. Whether you’re headed to the beach, a music festival, or just your backyard with a coconut in hand—your hair deserves to be part of the moment. But the truth is which styles can last in the heat and still look good on TV? What’s flattering for both short hair and curly textures? Which styles scream vacay mode on? I’m here to give you advice that helps, is on-trend and comes from a place of love for your summer hair.
We should discuss how to deal with texture, humidity and summer hairstyles that girls will adore in 2025. Ready?
Beach Blonde Waves with a Graphic Tee Attitude
It’s so easy to look stylish with soft, sun-kissed waves, a knotted graphic tee and high-cut swim bottoms. You can get this look without a curling iron—all you need is saltwater, SPF and a little time. The layers in this cut soften the face, so it is a great choice for medium to long hair. It isn’t trying to be fancy, but always gives me the vibe I’m after.
So my hair doesn’t frizz, I always pack Ouai Wave Spray in my beach bag—it adds enough texture without making my hair hard. Rinsing your hair with cool water and combing it with a wide-tooth comb at night will help keep your natural style, especially if your hair tends to flip out.
I’ve always thought that this style looks great at the beach and at a casual brunch. If you’ve got natural wave, let it live. If that’s not what you want, scrunch your damp hair into a loose bun and let it dry naturally. Trust me.
A pro stylist once shared with me, “The more imperfect your hair is, the more like you’ve just returned from vacation it will look.” I felt that. And this style? It’s just like a margarita for your hair—simple, salty and instantly enjoyable.
High Volume Curls and a Throwback Band Tee
Natural curly hair looks great every day, but it truly shines when you’re surrounded by the sun and palm trees. It’s a tribute to big volume—coils left untamed and shaped to perfection around the face. The graphic band tee tied at the waist adds some extra style, so this becomes a great summer vacation hairstyle with attitude. It’s low-effort in the styling department, high-impact in aesthetic.
Keeping curls defined on vacation? Key move: Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross Leave-In Conditioner. It’s weightless, hydrating, and perfect post-swim or after salty winds have had their way. I put on a lot of gel and allow my curls to do what they want.
Personally, this style feels like freedom. It’s the kind of hair that doesn’t apologize, doesn’t shrink back, and doesn’t need taming. It says, “I’ve arrived,” without needing an invite.
For black women’s vacation hairstyles in the summer, this is the perfect time to wear a crown. And if you’re letting your curls go big and bold, just know—everyone’s going to want to know your secret. Let them guess.
Pin-Up Bandana Bun with Retro Glam
Now this one’s for the girls who want cute and controlled all at once. Wrapping a high bun with a bright red bandana gives it a retro-glam look in a tropical place. It’s giving Brigitte Bardot goes island hopping. When you team this with a large pair of hoops and a bright triangle bikini, you look pin-up without worrying about pin curls. It’s an excellent choice for thick hair or extensions and looks even better on hair that hasn’t been washed.
Dry shampoo is your best friend here. Batiste Coconut & Exotic Tropical Dry Shampoo is my choice because it smells light and lasts a long time. It keeps your roots healthy even after you’ve been in the sun, near the ocean or used sunscreen for hours.
It feels like I worked harder than I really did, even though I didn’t. I can make it in less than five minutes and it seems like I’ve cooked it before.
This style isn’t only about how it looks; it also protects your skin. Wearing your hair in a high bun keeps it away from your neck and the scarf protects your hair from the sun. Beauty and brains.
Boxer Braids and Beachside Ease
A double braid leading into a tucked low bun? Say less. This look is structured but chill, perfect for braided hairstyles for summer vacation that won’t unravel by lunch. It’s stylish, safe and very useful for trips filled with surfing, hiking or trying to catch the last rays of sun. In addition, it is great for both delicate and coarse fabrics.
I use Edge Booster Strong Hold Water-Based Pomade to achieve a sleek braid style and it’s best to apply it lightly near the part and nape. After being out all day, I just add a little water and retighten the braid as needed.
This braid-bun combo is the kind of look that makes you feel put-together even if you’re totally winging the rest of your outfit. It balances soft and strong.
If you’re looking for vacation hairstyles braids summer that can handle the heat, this is your answer. It’s a style that shows up and stays.
Sleek and Straight with Floral-Trimmed Elegance
There’s a special pleasure in wearing straight, shiny hair beneath a flower-trimmed hat. This style leans into elegance—simple, polished, and timeless. It’s perfect for women who have naturally straight hair or who have recently straightened their locks. Wear pastels and a light touch of makeup and you’ll look perfect for a resort vacation.
To stop your hair from drying out in the sun, I advise using a small amount of Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil on your hair, whether it’s wet or dry. It’s not heavy, so you won’t get greasy hair and it also shields your hair from the heat of styling before your evening meal.
I usually bring a tiny straightener with me, but it’s better to let your hair’s natural shine come through.
A wide-brimmed hat does more than make you look good—it protects you from the sun, adds style and improves your mood. Summer 2025? We’re doing sleek like it’s our job.
Infinity Rope Braid for Polished Perfection
This braid is a perfect example of how to look elegant on vacation—it’s neat, refined and bold. The hair is gathered tightly and twisted, falling down the neck like a soft ropes of silk. It’s neatly styled without being too formal and it’s not hard to take care of. If you have long, thick hair—or if your extensions are well-done—this style will make heads turn and match your resort outfits and sunset dinners.
I always add Kérastase L’Huile Original Hair Oil in a thick layer before shaping my hair. It makes hair shiny, untangles it and prevents the braid from fraying when it’s humid. You need to make sure the center part is exact and take your time when you twist your hair.
It may not look like a beach volleyball hairstyle, but when you need to dress up at night, this braid is perfect. I have put it on for rooftop bars, open-air weddings and once with a bikini and cover-up and it always makes me look great.
It’s great for wearing under a hat in the daytime and for having soft waves in the evening. Dual-purpose hair? Always yes.
Wild Curly Afro with Sun-Lit Joy
There’s nothing like wearing your natural curls when you’re on vacation. It’s all about letting your curls be themselves—big, wild and not controlled. The layers give the hair body and movement and the shoulder-length cut makes it both attractive and easy for any day at the beach or in town. Honestly, this is a celebration in every strand.
I suggest using Camille Rose Curl Maker to get definition without making your curls crunchy. It’s great to put on after washing or to give your hair a boost after swimming mid-week. Allow your curls to dry on their own or use low heat when drying and don’t touch them after they set.
