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.
It’s a summer vacation hairstyle that really shows your personality. It’s colorful, attractive and a great choice for summer vacation since it gets cuter as you have more fun.
Let your curls say everything, and say it loudly. Confidence will do the rest.
Low Sunset Chignon with Timeless Grace
A simple low chignon has its own kind of beauty, especially when you’re wearing minimal swimwear and admiring the ocean. The volume is placed at the base of the neck, forming a strong knot that does not move in different weather conditions. It’s ideal for people with straight or slightly wavy hair and looks great with sun hats or bold earrings.
I finish by spraying Oribe Superfine Hair Spray on the hair after it is tied back with a flat elastic. It smells divine and holds through humidity without flaking.
If I want to look like the main character in a timeless summer romance movie, I reach for this. It feels put-together but relaxed. Luxe but effortless. The style that looks great when worn with linen and denim cutoffs.
It’s also a lifesaver on day three hair. Pro tip? Rubbing a bit of leave-in conditioner into your hands and then running it through your hair will help keep flyaways in place.
Defined Box Braids with Natural Parting
Summer box braids are a must-have vacation hairstyle for black women because they are protective, look amazing and can be done in many ways. Here, the braids are long and evenly divided and a gentle edge style gives the forehead a soft look. This look is made for movement and longevity. Poolside, mountain trails, lazy mornings? She’s got you covered.
Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil is a great way to keep your roots healthy and your scalp fragrant. It’s vacation-perfect and TSA-approved.
I always bring box braids with me if I’m going away for more than a week. There are many ways to style them—top knots, buns or half-up—and they protect my curls from damage and frequent washing.
This hairstyle is the ultimate choice for braided looks during summer vacation.
Messy Ponytail with Fringe and Poolside Vibes
A casual dream for me is a ponytail that is a little messy and curtain bangs that gently frame the face. This is for the laid-back ladies who don’t want to deal with their hair but hope it still looks good. At mid-high, the pony doesn’t lift much which makes it feel light on your feet. A fringe gives your face a soft look and it looks especially nice when teamed with large sunglasses.
I like to use IGK Beach Club Texture Spray here—it adds a little matte texture and holds my hair without making it too stiff.
Among my favorite summer vacation hairstyles short hair options, I love this one for shoulder-length cuts and layered lobs. It doesn’t demand perfection, which is exactly what you want when you’re lounging poolside with a mojito.
It’s relaxed, romantic, and ready for your Instagram story.
Flawless Top Knot for Poolside Elegance
A high ballerina bun is like the little black dress for vacation hairstyles in summer—it’s always the right choice and always stylish. This knot is placed in the middle of the crown, wrapped neatly and finished naturally. It gives your face a nice lift, extends your neckline and keeps all your hair out of the way as you enjoy the sun.
If I’m going in and out of the water, I use Color Wow Dream Coat on my hair to protect it from humidity and frizz without leaving anything sticky. I secure the shape by twisting with a silk scrunchie and using bobby pins that match my color to hold down any loose strands.
This style always makes me feel ready for the day, even when I’m just going to grab a coffee. Bonus? It looks amazing with big earrings and oversized sunnies.
It’s a bun that stays with you, from day to night and from pool to dinner. It’s got range.
Boho Beach Blonde in Full Freedom
Let it flow. This free-falling, natural straight look is pure vacation energy. Long hair adds drama, the center part keeps it easygoing and the light, summery color makes it seem like summer itself. People with fine hair will find that this style looks its best in the ocean breeze. Effortless? Absolutely. But it’s also thoughtfully undone.
I find that using Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer as a leave-in before styling gives my hair softness, UV protection and makes it easy to brush. Air drying is the move here. No heat tools required.
What I love most about this look? It’s beach bar ready, no effort needed. Keeping it simple speaks volumes—this hair shows I’m sure of who I am and the sun is doing the work today.
Honestly, who doesn’t want a go-to style that’s easy to choose?
Soft Updo with Nautical Charm
Sailing out to sea or brunching at the marina? A French twist with a pearl-studded barrette is both playful, messy and utterly adorable. The hair at the temples and nape is left loose which creates movement without making things messy. It’s the perfect hairstyle for boat days if you want to feel like a fairy tale heroine.
To get texture without tangles, I prefer Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray; spray it lightly, twist your hair, clip it and that’s it. It holds beautifully and smells like a piña colada.
If you want something simple that still looks good, I always reach for this one. It’s understated but not simple and it brings a touch of softness like you’d find on Pinterest on a trip.
Bring on the boat selfies.
Textured Lob with Golden Hour Energy
This lob (long bob) is a vacation classic with a modern update. This style with loose ends and a side part gives off a relaxed model look—it’s not too messy, not too soft. For those with medium short hair who don’t want to style every day but want their hair to look great, this is a great cut. Especially golden in that early-evening light.
I apply Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray to the roots and use it to separate my waves. It’s what gives that second-day fullness with zero crunch.
Personally, I feel like this cut works with everything. Put on a linen dress or denim shorts and you’re all set for a photo. It’s simple to transition from brunch to evening cocktails without having to change your space.
It’s the type that blows in the breeze and perfectly outlines the shape of a face.
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.
