Loose Waves with a Tropical Head Wrap
Sometimes it’s the accessories that make the look—and this scarf over big, curly waves is perfect for summer. It’s not too heavy, yet still has a nice shape that makes it glamorous yet easy to wear. Putting the scarf behind your ears helps your hair look good and it shields your scalp from the heat in the middle of the day.
Most of the time, I use Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream to mold and moisturize my waves before making my hair look just the way I want it. If you want to style your hair without heat, braid it when it’s damp and leave it in overnight.
There’s a beautiful balance here—glam meets chill. I’ve taken this outfit on walks in Tulum and out for breakfast in Ibiza. Add sunglasses and you’re that girl.
If you’re looking for a summer vacation hairstyle that is both chic and easy to handle, this is the one for you.
Wind-Tousled Beach Hair with Natural Lift
They’re not trying to be complicated; they just go with the flow of the wind. It’s a style without style that somehow always looks nice. It’s the volume at the top and the movement in the hair from root to end that reveals it. This is summer in motion, pure and simple.
I use a bit of Sun Bum 3-in-1 Leave In Treatment to help my hair keep this movement after I towel dry it. It helps protect your hair from the sun and makes it softer, without losing its bounce.
I put this on when I want to feel playful but relaxed. When you want to let go of routine and let the waves (your hair and the ocean’s) do the styling. A look that means you need sunscreen and lip balm and not much else.
A good tip: Turn your head upside down, give it a shake and then walk out. Done.
Romantic Flower Bun for Coastal Glam
Adding a flower to your twisted bun makes your simple updo look more special for vacation. The style gives off a sense of when things were easier: it’s gentle, breezy and elegant, but not in a forced way. I think a flower is necessary if you’re wearing an off-the-shoulder or ruffle dress, as it highlights the neckline.
I like to apply Living Proof Perfect Hair Day 5-in-1 Styling Treatment before pulling my hair back for texture. It gives it grip and polish without stiffness. Which flower you pick depends on your mood and where you have to go.
This style seems to pay tribute to old postcards, pearl necklaces and cocktails by the beach. It gives a relaxed day a touch of elegance.
Romantic? Yes. High maintenance? Not at all.
Face-Framing Braids on Beach Waves
The first summer style covers all your summer favorites in one look: mermaid waves and relaxed braids on the top of your head. It’s fun, flirty, and refreshingly youthful. The braids give the hair a defined feel but do not make it crunchy and they help keep your hair away from your face.
I love curling the ends with a 1.25″ wand and brushing them out gently with a boar bristle brush. I then apply Verb Ghost Oil to finish the style and keep the movement.
You should choose it if you want a piece that is both playful and pretty. When it’s humid and your hair needs some extra help, these baby braids are a perfect solution.
If I earned a dollar every time someone asked me how I made these braids, I’d be enjoying smoothies in Tulum all the time.
Twin Braids with a Tropical Orchid Pop
Two braids give a light and carefree finish, divided across the middle with gentle elastics. The standout? The bright color of a tropical orchid placed above the ear. It changes a schoolgirl-themed dress into a stylish summer look. This is cute summer vacation hairstyles done right.
I spray Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Humidity Smoothing Milk on my hair before braiding which gives it a nice shine and prevents tangling. A real or artificial flower will make your space look instantly charming.
There’s something nostalgic and happy about this style. You can wear it for adventure, biking along the beach or just relaxing under a palm tree.
Not every vacation hairstyle has to be overdone. This one is pure sunshine.
Sculpted Braids with Baby Hair Artistry
Okay, this one is bold. Long side braids and well-groomed baby hairs—that’s what vacation hairstyles for black women summer the beach look like on the runway. It’s intricate and empowering, and designed to last through flights, swims, and salsa nights. The main features are sharpness, smoothness and accuracy.
My recommendation is Shine ’n Jam Extra Hold Conditioning Gel because it keeps your hair looking neat and shiny. Wear a satin scarf before going to bed and the look will stay perfect for days in any tropical weather.
It’s not only about the hair—it’s about the whole event. I love how it bridges fashion, culture, and function.
It’s a major trend for summer and it’s not only about fashion—it’s about making an impression wherever you are.
Polished Pigtails with Retro Attitude
These aren’t your playground pigtails. The style features a sleek top and two even ponytails are parted and smoothed down the sides. It’s the mix of playful and polished that makes early 2000s look grown-up. The reason it looks great is the symmetry—the middle part, the smooth finish and the shiny texture that bounces light beautifully.
I use Tresemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum to get a shiny look without losing my hair’s volume. Just add a drop of product to the mid-shaft and ends and brush the roots with a soft boar bristle brush to prevent bumps. You should tie your hair with elastics that are snug, but not too tight, to avoid a headache.
I put this on when I want to feel a bit playful but still keep things under control. If you want to lounge, go to festivals or hang out on rooftops with your best friend, it’s perfect. Plus, it frames the face in a way that highlights every glam detail of your makeup (hello lashes!).
If you want a hairstyle for summer vacation that looks great and won’t fall out—this is the one for you.
