Vacation Hairstyles for Summer 2025: Chic Inspiration – The Ultimate Style Guide
Summer is here, and that means one thing: it’s time to give our hair a vacation too! Whether you’re lounging by the beach, exploring a new city, or sipping cocktails at a tropical resort, your hairstyle should match the vibe. But what makes a vacation hairdo great for 2025? It has to be something that’s stylish, easy to do, and works well in different places. Think effortless, chic, and a touch of personality. From braids to curly hair and neat updos, this season’s looks are about finding a happy middle between style and being easy to manage. Ready to get inspired? Let’s dive into some stunning looks that will make you feel like a goddess on your next summer adventure.
French Braided Elegance
There’s something about French braids that always looks cool, and this year, they’re even more in style than before. This hairstyle isn’t just about keeping your hair out of your face, but also about making you look a bit more put together. The braids are neatly done, making them look simple and put together, but they still give off a bit of a romantic feel. Plus, they stay intact whether you’re strolling on the beach or dancing the night away.
To keep your braids looking nice and shiny, I suggest using Briogeo Farewell Frizz Rosarco Milk Leave-In Conditioning Spray. It keeps hair manageable and adds a lightweight shine. Trust me, a good leave-in makes all the difference when dealing with summer humidity!
If you want something that looks nice but is also easy to use, this is the one for you. The tightly woven braids not only look nice but they also stay in place even when you’re out and about in the summer heat. I love how they instantly make things look a bit more interesting, but they don’t get in the way of what’s important. They’re great for days when you just want to look nice without having to fuss with your clothes all the time.
If you’re traveling to a beach, make sure to bring along a small bottle of leave-in conditioner to help keep your hair looking nice and healthy. It’s a game-changer when you want to revive your braids after a dip in the sea!
Floral Bun for the Beach
When I think of beach hair, I picture a look that’s relaxed, wind-swept, and just looks effortlessly nice. This flower bun is perfect for summer and gives off a relaxed and pretty feel. The loosely gathered curls and the small flower accessory make her hair look romantic and easy at the same time. It’s great for going to the beach, having dinner outside when the sun goes down, or just taking some pictures with friends.
Keeping this style fresh when it’s hot out can be tough, so I suggest using Ouai Wave Spray to help your waves look better and add some extra texture to your bun. Just a few sprays are all you need to keep your hair looking relaxed and not too perfect.
I love how this style isn’t over the top but still seems well put together. There’s something about mixing natural hair styles with flowers that just feels really right for summer and its laid-back vibe. Plus, it’s surprisingly versatile—just switch up the flower color to match your outfit!
If you want to make sure the flower stays in place, use a hairpin that has a good clip. No one wants their cute accessory flying off with the first summer breeze!
Sleek and Simple Low Bun
If your vacation style is more about simplicity, you might want to try out a simple low bun. It’s clean, simple, and looks nice without being over-the-top. Plus, it’s great for hot days when you want your hair to stay put and not get all messy. Paired with gold hoops and a little bit of makeup, it looks like something you’d put together in just a few minutes but still looks really stylish.
To get this look, I recommend using Moroccanoil Smoothing Lotion to help calm down any frizz and make your hair look shiny. It’s especially helpful if you have to deal with a lot of humidity or your hair gets frizzy.
One of my favorite things about this hairstyle is that it makes you look put-together without having to spend a lot of time on it. Whether you’re headed to a fancy dinner or just exploring the city, this low bun has got you covered. It’s like the little black dress of hairstyles because it’s simple, always looks good, and is a classic choice.
A little trick: Use a toothbrush spritzed with hairspray to help tame any flyaways around your bun, without making your whole hairdo stiff. It’s a game-changer, especially in humid weather!
Loose Curls with a Summer Glow
Let’s talk about loose curls—the kind that looks like you’ve been at the beach all day, but you just look a little more put-together. These soft waves look great around your face and give any summer look a little bit of romance. Whether you’re wearing a flowy dress or some nice shorts, this hairstyle looks great with either.
To keep my curls looking nice and bouncy, I always use OGX Moroccan Curling Perfection Defining Cream. It’s light and doesn’t leave anything sticky, so your curls stay looking good all day.
Curls are like a vacation essential for me. They instantly make you feel like you’re on a beach, but they don’t look too over the top. I love how they add extra fullness and make even a plain outfit look more put-together. Plus, they’re perfect for both day and night plans!
One more tip: To get that lived-in curl, take damp sections of your hair and twist them into curls, then let them dry naturally. It’s less damaging and gives a more natural finish.
Laid-Back Waves with a Watermelon Twist
Sometimes, you just want to write in a way that feels as relaxed as how you feel. These relaxed waves are the ultimate easy-going summer look. They’re soft, natural, and scream effortless beauty. Whether you’re having brunch or walking around a beach town, this style goes with just about anything.
To get this look, I suggest trying out Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray. It gives your hair a nice bit of texture but doesn’t make it feel heavy. Plus, the scent totally reminds me of beach days!
Honestly, waves like these just make me happy. They’re playful and stylish at the same time, making them great when you want to look nice without trying too hard. Plus, they look great when you wear big sunglasses and are smiling.
If you’re in a hurry, you can quickly scrunch your hair while it’s still wet and add a bit of salt spray to help give it a bit of texture and volume. It’s the kind of style that only gets better as the day goes on!
Carefree Beach Curls
When it comes to summer vacation hair, nothing looks more laid-back and fun than big, bouncy curls that just look like you didn’t really try too hard. This style gives off a laid-back, just-right look, great for when you want your hair to look messy and natural at the beach. It’s a style that looks relaxed and interesting, with the natural waves being the star of the show.
To keep these curls looking nice and easy to touch, I suggest using the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie. It keeps your hair moisturized and soft, but doesn’t make it feel heavy or weighed down, so your curls can stay bouncy all day long.
What I love about this look is how it shows off the natural texture in the hair, but still looks put together. It’s playful, flirty, and perfect for any beachside adventure. Plus, it goes from a day out by the water to a nice evening dinner with friends without skipping a beat.
If you’re dealing with frizzy hair, using a little OGX Moroccan Curling Perfection Defining Cream can really help tame it. Just work a little bit of product through damp hair and let it dry naturally for that perfect beachy look.
Sunlit Blonde Waves
If there’s a single look that says summer hair goals, it’s these golden blonde waves that look like they were made for the beach. With a little bit of natural messiness and a lovely golden tone, this style looks great when the sun is out and you’re just enjoying a relaxing day. It’s a relaxed style that still looks really cool, so it’s perfect for summer this year.
To keep this color looking bright and not fade too much in the summer, I really recommend using Purple Toning Shampoo by Fanola. It helps keep your hair looking shiny and stops it from turning brassy, while still keeping that nice, golden color.
Personally, I really like how this style makes your hair look a bit messy and natural, but still keeps it looking neat and put together. It’s not too fussy, but it still feels intentional. It’s the kind of style that gets better as the day goes on, picking up a natural look from the saltwater without ever looking too done up.
For those with straight hair, a quick go-over with a 1.5-inch curling iron can give you just the right amount of waves. Spritz your hair with a sea salt spray to help keep your hair looking beachy and fresh.
Fiery Red Curls with Attitude
Talk about a statement look. These fiery red curls are bold and full, showing off both bounce and texture for a really eye-catching look. It’s a look that draws your eyes in, with every curl standing out and giving it a lot of personality. If you want a hairstyle that’s just as strong and bold as you are, this is the one to go for.
Maintaining such vibrant curls requires a bit of TLC. I recommend using Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Curl Sculpting Custard helps keep your curls looking nice and moisturized all day long.
Honestly, there’s something so captivating about this look. It’s wild, free, and full of personality, making it the perfect choice for when you want to look different without having to put in a lot of effort. And the best part? It’s surprisingly low-maintenance. Just use a little bit of curl cream and you’re all set.
For a little more shine, you can add a few drops of Moroccanoil Treatment Oil to your hair to make your curls look nice and bouncy without making them feel heavy.
Textured Natural Volume
Natural textures are really popular this summer, and this big, bouncy curl look is the perfect example of easy, summer style. It’s big, bold, and totally unapologetic. Whether you’re out and about in the city or just hanging out at a garden party, this outfit will make you look cool and comfortable.
To keep your curls looking neat and defined, I would suggest trying out Camille Rose Curl Maker. It adds just the right amount of hold to your curls without making them feel hard or stiff.
I love how this outfit shows off the natural texture of the fabric while still looking put-together. It’s great for days when you want your hair to stand out and don’t want to add any extra stuff to it. And it’s such a versatile style too; dress it up with some bold earrings, or just go casual with a sundress.
If you’re going with your natural curls this summer, using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer can really help you get more volume and bounce in your hair.
Soft Boho Waves with Floral Accent
Nothing says summer like having soft, beachy waves with a little bit of pretty flower details. This look is all about feeling cool and laid-back, with some added texture to make it look a bit more interesting. It’s a nice, light, and pretty dress that’s great for summer parties or walking around in the evening.
To get this look, just use a wave wand and spray a bit of Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Spray to help keep your waves in place. It gives you the look of a perfectly imperfect wave without making it look too styled.
This is one of those styles that makes me feel like it’s summer, and I’m having a good time with friends, dancing in the warm air under the stars. It’s effortlessly romantic without being too fussy. And the flower? That’s a great way to finish off your outfit and give it a bit of fun and style.
For people who have straight hair, using a bit of dry shampoo at the roots can help add some body and style without having to use a lot of heat from your hair dryer.
Sleek High Ponytail
If you’re looking for a vacation hairstyle that exudes confidence and sophistication, a sleek high ponytail is your go-to. This look is all about looking put-together in a way that feels easy and stylish, perfect for days when you want to look good without spending a lot of time getting ready. The high ponytail makes the neck look longer and keeps your hair out of your face, which is great when it’s really hot outside.
To achieve that glass-like finish, I recommend using L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray. It keeps every strand in place and doesn’t make your hair feel stiff, and it gives your hair a really nice shine.
There’s something really strong about a simple ponytail—it looks great, makes you feel confident, and just screams “I’m ready to take on the world!” It’s also incredibly versatile; Add some style with some statement earrings or just keep it simple with a pair of sunglasses.
For an extra polished look, take a small piece of hair and wrap it around the base of your ponytail to cover up the elastic. It’s a small tip that can quickly make your writing feel more elegant and upscale.
Shaggy Pixie Cut
The shaggy pixie cut is about letting your hair look a bit messy and relaxed, while still looking put-together. It’s got a cool, edgy look, but it’s still feminine, with short, choppy layers that give it some extra style and movement. This look is great for summer and works well if you don’t want to spend a lot of time getting your hair ready. Just tousle and go—it’s as simple as that.
To keep your ends looking piecey and textured, try using Kristin Ess Dry Finish Working Texture Spray. It adds fullness to your hair without making it feel heavy and helps to keep those short pieces looking neat.
I love how this outfit looks a bit rock ‘n’ roll, but it still feels pretty feminine. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and sassy, making it great for anyone who wants to add a little bit of style to their trip.
And if you’re worried about losing length, remember that a pixie cut can actually look really good and can be styled in lots of different ways. Add some wax or pomade to give your hair more texture, or keep it light and fluffy with a bit of texturizing spray.
Starfish Braided Beauty
For a summer vacation hairstyle that’s both cute and easy to do, try making a starfish braid and add some small, star-shaped clips to finish it off. This look is great for spending time at the beach or going for a walk by the water at sunset. The braid keeps your hair tidy, and the starfish accessories make your look a little more fun and whimsical.
To keep the braid looking neat and tidy, just put a few drops of Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine onto your hands and run them through your braid. Shine Anti-Frizz Serum. It helps tame flyaways and gives the braid a nice shine, making it look neater and more put together.
There’s something really pretty about this look—it feels like a mermaid style but in a really simple way. And those starfish clips? They’re a simple but nice way to make any outfit look a bit more put-together.
For a little extra style, you can curl the ends of the braid by wrapping them around your finger. It gives the overall look a softer, more romantic feel that works really well for a dinner on the beach at night.
Pearl-Embellished Low Bun
Classy, chic, and never going out of style, the pearl-embellished low bun is the perfect look for anyone who wants to look stylish and put-together. This style works well for fancy dinners, weddings, or any other time you want to look put-together without being too stuffy. The addition of a single pearl barrette can make your hair look more glamorous and put together, making it a great choice for a summer vacation look.
For a smooth and silky look, use Kenra Platinum Silkening Mist before you start styling your hair. It gives your hair a nice, shiny look and helps keep each strand from moving out of place.
What I love about this look is how easily it makes any outfit look a bit more put-together. Whether you’re wearing a casual sundress or a fancy gown, putting your hair up in a low bun with a simple pearl accessory can make your look feel more put-together.
To make the bun extra secure, use bobby pins that look the same as your hair color. This keeps things looking neat and clean, so the text is easy to read without any extra things getting in the way.
Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids are not just for kids anymore—they’re now a popular style for adults looking for a cool and easy way to keep their hair out of their face in the summer. These long, neat braids go around the face and keep your hair off your neck, so they work great when it’s hot outside. Plus, they’re really handy if you’re going to be doing things like hiking, biking, or spending time at the beach.
To keep those braids looking nice and smooth, try using Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream. It hydrates and softens the hair, which helps it look smoother and easier to braid, and it also stops those little flyaways from happening.
I love how these braids look cool and casual when you wear them like this, but they can also look really nice and put-together if you change them up a little. Leave the ends loose and wavy if you want a more casual, bohemian look, or tuck them under if you want something neater and more put together.
And the best part? This style is ideal for second or third-day hair. Just refresh with some dry shampoo and you’re good to go!
Beachy Waves with a Shell Clip
Nothing says vacation hair inspiration quite like letting your hair hang loose with some wavy strands and adding a fun shell clip to finish off the look. This look is the perfect way to look stylish and comfortable for a summer evening, especially after a day spent out by the water. The beach waves are soft and natural, and the shell clip gives the style an extra beachy feel.
For a soft and touchable finish, I’d go with Ouai Wave Spray. It gives the hair a look that looks like it hasn’t been styled, but without making it feel sticky or hard.
What I love about this style is how it looks relaxed and breezy, but still looks put together enough to wear out at night. It’s simple but makes a big difference, great for anyone who wants a relaxed and summery look.
If your hair is naturally straight, take small sections and wrap them around a curling wand to give it some wave, then finish off with the wave spray. This will help keep the texture but not make it look too stiff or rigid.
Messy Beach Curls
There’s something really cool about having beachy, messy curls, especially when you’ve got big sunglasses and are sipping on a drink in the sun. This look is about letting your curls do their thing, letting them bounce and fall however they want for a relaxed and natural style.
To keep those curls looking good and stop them from frizzing up, try using Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Curl Smoothie. It’s full of good stuff that helps keep your curls moisturized and looking bouncy, without making them heavy.
I love how these curls feel so relaxed and easy-going—they’re perfect for just hanging out by the pool or having a fun night out dancing. And if you use the right curl cream, your curls will stay soft, springy, and not get weighed down, no matter how humid it gets.
For a little extra shine, warm up some OGX Renewing Argan Oil between your hands and gently run your fingers through your curls. It gives a nice soft shine without making the hair look too oily.
Effortless Messy Bun
Sometimes, the best vacation hairstyles are the ones that are quick and easy, like this messy bun you can throw up in a few seconds. It’s great for days when you just want to put your hair up and let it look good without spending too much time on it. The loose strands around the face give the hairstyle a softer, more romantic look, and still keep it looking casual and stylish.
For that just-right messy look, I recommend trying Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo. It soaks up extra oil and gives your hair more body and bounce, so it’s great to use when your hair is a bit greasy or needs a little pick-me-up.
I love how this style makes me feel so laid-back and comfortable, just like putting on a big, comfy tee. And the best part? It works well with any length of hair, whether your hair is short or long.
If you want a little bit more volume in your hair, try gently lifting the top layer of hair before putting it up in a bun. It gives the look a bit more edge, but it doesn’t go overboard.
Bohemian Crochet Style
Crochet hairstyles are really popular right now because they look great and feel really comfortable to wear on hot summer days. This look is all about feeling relaxed and comfortable, so it’s great for days out by the beach or wandering around a new place. The soft waves with some crochet earrings go really well together and give off a laid-back, bohemian look that feels both pretty and free-spirited.
To keep your waves looking good, try spraying on some Bumble and Bumble Surf Infusion Spray. It adds a bit of shine and moisture, helping your hair look fresh and soft, like you just got out of the ocean.
I love this outfit, it’s so easy but it looks like you put a lot of thought into it. And the best part? It’s incredibly low-maintenance. Just let the waves do their thing and you can relax and enjoy the ride.
For a little extra volume, flip your hair upside down and then shake it out after you put on the surf spray. It gives your hair a relaxed and messy look that’s great for summer.
Side-Swept Blonde Glam
For those days when you want to look extra special, going for a side-swept blonde style is a great choice. This look is all about going for that classic, old-Hollywood feel, with loose waves falling to one side to add a bit of flair. The blonde highlights really stand out and look great in the sun, giving off that warm, summery look.
To keep those waves looking shiny and smooth, try spraying Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine Spray on them. It adds a bit of shine without making the hair look heavy.
This look is great for when you want to go from the beach to a bar and still look put-together without having to put in a lot of effort. Just a quick run through your hair with a wide-tooth comb, a little bit of shine spray, and you’re good to go!
If you’re worried about making your hair look too voluminous, just use a small amount of backcombing at the roots to give your hair some lift, without making it look too messy or unkempt.