Is it just us or does preparing for your next sunny vacation automatically make you want to amp up your hair routine? Capturing the right picture seaside or adventuring in a new city can go from average to jaw-dropping with a stunning hairstyle. But what does a vacation-ready hairstyle mean in 2025? Could it be the relaxed waves? Maybe the structure that withstands the heat? Or is it simply that relaxed look that says, “I woke up like this (and still look amazing)” ? Spoiler: it’s all of the above.
This season is all about stunning summer vacation hairstyles that incorporate fun and function. I'm thinking high-impact yet low-maintenance. Styles that hold up to the sweat, salt-water, and active days on the go. In this article, I'm tailoring some of my favorite summer vacation hairstyles that will keep you cool, confident, and picture-perfect from dawn to dusk. Each style was personally selected to inspire warm weather escapades, so join me as I share how each works and who they're best suited for.
Laid-Back Waves with a Half-Up Bow Twist
This hairstyle requires very low maintenance as natural hair texture and soft hair waves that have been beach kissed are effortlessly beautiful by themselves. From a high vantage point, the head is held in the form of a gentle ponytail, and then fastened with either a scarf or ribbon. The combination offers a volumized updo that features a silhouette that combines polish and boho style.
The look is very ideal for hair that is naturally wavy or curled and, as such, is most suitable for those with shoulder lengthed to medium long hair. For chic yet easygoing style to pair with those breezy days, casual walks by the local market or sipping cocktails by the sea, this look is perfect. This is not ideal for hair that can get flat with roots that are oily in humid weather.
In my personal opinion, ensure every section of the hair is finger-combed before and has been loosely wrapped with a scarf. The hairstyle also requires minimal makeup, possenssed by skin that has been kissed by the sun, accompanied by bold gold earrings to maximize the chic look.
This particular style is adorable and falls under the category of cute summer vacation hairstyles with serious staying power. Also, it’s an easygoing option in the summer vacation hairstyles short hair realm, particularly if you make the scarf lightweight.
The Power Top Knot Goes Beach Chic
Allow us to introduce you to the effortlessly chic ‘elevated top knot’—a luxurious take on the no fuss hairstyle, the elevated top knot. This take features a sleek base and a loosely textured bun topping. This effortless ensemble exudes ease and elegance, transitioning beautifully from day trips to evening soirees.
Generally speaking, this style suits all except those with coarse or thick hair. The enhanced cheekbones and facial definition are complemented by off-the-shoulder and strappy resort attire, making this look especially flattering. Ultra-thick or super long hair would require securing the shape with pins and strong hold products to keep the bun crisp and weatherproof during humid conditions.
To achieve the elevated top knot, start by smoothing the roots with a boar bristle brush. Next, gather hair at the crown into a high ponytail and twist it loosely before wrapping it into a bun. Finished looks take a light holding hair spray or shine spray for textured beachy waves and bun material.
Flaunt this sleek, heat resistant vacation hairstyle for summer that you’ll never get tired of: it’s simple to style and sophisticated to wear. And for my clients who have asked for stylish summer vacation hairstyles for short hair but still feel polished, this one is for you.
Loose and Romantic Low Braid
This soft low braid with some curls left out to frame the face is everything we love about summer vacation hairstyles and more. This easy-going braid doesn’t try to tame your texture; it embraces it. This makes it a romantic and effortless summer look.
Ideal for medium-long hair with a natural wave, this style offers everyone else a practically dreamy option. Just not for those with short hair. Oh, and did I mention? This effortless hairstyle achieves an impeccable look in under five minutes!
Start with dry hair and apply some leave-in cream or oil to keep stray hairs at bay. Leave a portion of hair loose at the front for that breezy, undone touch and then begin to gently secure a side braid with a small clear elastic. Finish by gently pulling at the braid to create volume and movement, making the style more tousled and effortless.
This braided hairstyle is a favorite of mine for summer vacations. It is both practical and romantic at the same time. Whether you are going out for a sunset dinner or strolling around ancient towns, this style adds elegance without bringing complexity.
Half-Up Volume with Cool-Girl Texture
When you are looking for effortless style with an edge, a half-up tousled style with crown volume is where it’s at. This look, which is both relaxed and flirty, adds texture and lift, creating the illusion of thick hair and a fun attitude that works with any vacation.
This is a favorite of mine for medium layered cuts or finer hair that needs some volume. If your hair is prone to lying flat, then backcombing the crown area will help shift this straight hair into flirt mode.
This is how I prefer to do it: section the top half away, lightly tease the roots, and twist or loosely clip it back. Let the bottom half hang naturally or add a few waves to enhance it. With bold lips and sunglasses, this look is easy to achieve with minimal effort for great results. This look is epic for casual days in town or travel days where you want to look pretty without much effort.
It is one of the most vacation hairstyles summer picks that appear effortless yet polished at the same time. And for those looking for cute hairstyles for summer vacation that don’t involve elaborate updos or intricate braids, this is an excellent option.
Effortless Top Bun with Untamed Texture
This messy top bun gives off all the casual, just-woke-up-on-the-beach vibes we desire on vacation. The charm of this hairstyle lies in its voluminous nature—high and loosely held together, permitting some flyaways and loose strands to contour the face. It's not about precision, rather gentle movement and soft curves.
This one is the top choice for anyone with thick or naturally textured hair. When it comes to volume, dense hair works best. If you have finer hair, try a volumizing dry shampoo or mousse. This style also works best when hair is one-to-two days unwashed—dirty hair makes for great bun-grit.
Pull all hair into a high ponytail, twist it loosely, and pin to secure. Set a few pieces free around the hairline for a softer finished look. It is delightful how effortlessly perfect this hairstyle is. A style that brings to mind walking around Positano plopped right on a cobblestone street.
This has got to be one of my go-to vacation hairstyles in summer when comfort, simplicity, and battling the heat effectively are the appealing features.
Sleek and Sun-Ready Straight Hair
There’s nothing like a sunny day and clean, straight hair that sparkles as it catches the sun’s rays. This polished look features a center part with light graduated layering for an uncomplicated, smooth finish. From brunch to beach strolls, this style requires zero effort.
This look works best on straight or heat-treated hair and really shines on the health vine ends. It is stunning for highlighting various shades of one’s natural hair color. For looser climates, a light anti-frizz serum or humidity block spray is your best friend.
To maintain the fresh, my suggestion is to brush into shape with a flat paddle brush, spritzing dry oil spray for sheen without increased greasiness. And remember, sun exposure makes a UV protectant harsh but vital.
This choice will polish the look when integrated into cute hairstyles for summer vacation and class, elegance and simplicity will prevail.
Shoulder-Length Chic with Blunt Texture
Not only does this shoulder-length style appear effortless, but its blunt ends and natural volume add to this hairstyle's charm. The sophisticated touch does class it up enough to pair with oversized shades and a bright statement lip, however, travel days are simple too.
Perfect for medium-to-short hairstyles, this look works for those with lightly textured or naturally straight hair. Bonus? This sleek look has minimal maintenance. No curls to preserve, no elaborate form to maintain, just pure attitude ready to strut free.
To achieve, blow dry using a round brush or air-dry with gentle smoothing cream. For more shape, hit a few pieces with a straightener, but embrace the crazy too—it's vacation after all.
This hairstyle works best for short summer vacation hairstyles, allowing the wearer to feel fresh without needing to tie or braid their hair.
Feathered Layers with Soft Movement
For hair that dances with the slightest breeze, look no further than feathered layers. These soft, cascading layers offer the best amount of movement and buoyancy and are ideal for summer days when a full head of hair isn't just for show.
The best medium to long hairstyles this works for comes with natural straight or wavy hair. Its particularly flattering on the oval and heart shaped face as it softens the jaw and elongates the neck.
For boosts at the roots, style with a blow dryer and a round brush. Alternatively, existing waves can be enhanced by scrunching in curl cream. To keep the volume, use a lightweight hairspray.
A vacation hairstyle like this one gives off an unaffiliated summertime main character feel which can be worn on gelato runs.
Boho Bun with a Headband Twist
Flaunt the beach air with a preppy take on summer hair featuring a headband elabrotly paired with a boho bun. The structure allows the bun to hold all day while the relaxed charm maintains the feel of “beach babe on the go.” The fabric headband is nice by keeping flyaways away while providing a sweet boho feel.
This is an exceptional choice for just about any hair type and works especially well for growing out bangs or annoying layers. Plus, it’s super easy to pack because headbands take up no luggage space and instantly elevate any outfit making them easy to bring.
To achieve the hairstyle, lift the hair and twist it into a loose bun on top of the head, then put a headband over it. You can allow a few strands of hair at the front to fall out. The style can be finished off with a printed wrap, a knotted jersey band or a silk scarf. Each of these options alters the entire mood of the hairstyle.
This is among the most charming hairstyles for summer vacations, providing a way to keep functionality while looking trendy. It’s also a useful alternative to vacation hairstyles for people who want that polished look but don’t want to use any braids.
High Ponytail with Silk Scarf Drama
Wrapping a silky scarf around a high ponytail instantly amps up your summer aesthetic. The style does not mess up the crown, while the soft bangs provide a flirty, dreamy effect. The boastful yet subtle contrast between the sleek base and the flowing scarf detail adds just the right amount of drama.
This style is great for those with medium to long hair, especially if there are layers that need some control. It is perfect for poolside lounging or evening walks when one wishes to appear groomed, but not too formal. If you have bangs or an older fringe, this style showcases those features without fully committing to a big hairstyle.
To achieve this look, secure your ponytail high and tight, then tie a silk scarf around the base with the tails down. Pro tip: use a little bit of dry shampoo at the roots to give lift and grip. It is stylish, breathable, and heat-proof.
This effortlessly elegant and simple hairstyle is undoubtedly one of the best hairstyles to try during summer vacation—a must-try look that you won’t stop wanting to after your first try.
Messy Bun With Bohemian Style Headband
A top knot with a colorful head wrap epitomizes casual chic style. It works best for those sweltering days when you don't want any hair clinging to your neck but require looking picture-perfect for a beach-side boardwalk beach selfie.
People with medium to thick hair will benefit the most from this style, along with those who have natural texture or frizzy hair. You do not need to tame the flyaways, as these will contribute to the charm of the effortless summer hairstyle.
In order to achieve this style, simply swept your hair to form a high bun and twist it loosely. You then take a wide scarf or a headband and wrap it around the base. The fabric can be tucked or pinned in place. Caloric activity: effortless, simply styled and can be worn over anything from sundresses to yoga attires.
It would work wonderfully on vacation, as it gives off a bold statement and can easily be described as breathable summer hairstyles for Black women.
Long Tousled Waves with Sunlit Shine
Nothing beats long, loose waves that twirl in the sun. This hairstyle blends soft curls with natural volume which adds movement and texture. More importantly, these waves provide enough tousle to feel like a real hairstyle and not overly done. A hydrated mane is the secret to glowing summer light, and this style requires moisture and shine.
This ‘go-to’ is best for long hair with layers needing soft waves and is suitable for all hair types. To create those signature ‘bends’, braid the hair overnight or use a large barrel wand. To achieve the desired polished and undone look, apply a shine serum with sea salt spray.
If you are going to a breezy location, this type of hair is ideal since it looks stunning in pictures, while also keeping you cool. It is effortless but not messy, and sexy while being understated.
This look has versatility for a summer vacation hairstyle among black women, white women or anyone in between—this hairstyle works for all. It is one of the most effortless vacation hairstyles summer has to offer, giving a fresh-off-the-coast vibe.
Half-Up Twist with Long Romantic Volume
The twist bun half-up features a smooth elongated structure that flows downwards and has a controlled crown. This style emphasizes the beauty of long hair that has a lot of volume because the shape is given at the top while the length moves freely. This style is playful, lively, and confident.
This hairstyle is best suited for thick to medium hair which has a natural wave or a professionally styled curl. It works best on round and square face shapes by lifting and elongating the overall form and silhouette. If you do not appreciate full updos, but still want some control, this style works perfectly.
To create this hairstyle, section off the crown, twist into a mini top knot, and secure it. The rest should be left down and brushed out for maximum fullness. If needed, add a light curl and finish off with flexible hold hairspray.
This hairstyle is perfect for a cute summer vacation, especially for long-haired beach lovers who want their hair out of their face without losing volume and texture.
Side Braid Accent with Loose Curls
An accent side braid can do some magic. A delicate, sweet side braid accent works to contain the hair on one side while elegantly framing the face as it tucks into the flowing curls. Soft, whimsical, feminine and dreamy for escaping dinners or romantic evenings at the resort.
This style works best for longer hair that has already been curled or waved. Dual front layers and unruly bangs have a sophisticated way of looking tamed with this style.
Keep the rest of your hair dishwater soft with a light mousse or styling cream. Calm the curls by pinning them behind or releasing the pins to let the hair hang freely. Grab a small section from the front, braid it back towards the ear, and the rest are smooth sailing.
Side braids hairdos is an addition to the top elegant sheme of braided hairstyles summer styled vacation hairstyles.
Playful Scrunchie Bun with Loose Fringe
This hairstyle is a casual high bun held back with a printed scrunchie. It gives off a '90s vibe and is perfect for summer holidays. The left out soft front pieces provide a stylish and whimsical edge. Together, these elements create a laissez-faire summer vibe.
This hairstyle works perfectly for medium to long hair and is most suitable for day two or three hair. The scrunchie will keep the hair in place without being too tight, and the face-framing slips elegantly soften the hairstyle.
To achieve this hairstyle, pull your hair back into a high bun and secure it with a fabric scrunchie. Let out a few strands in front. You can wear this hairstyle to the airport or the beach, and even go on a scooter ride through cobblestone streets.
This hairstyle is both nostalgic and practical, and is one of the cute summer vacation hairstyles for easy summer outings.
Minimalist Headband with Effortless Waves
Transformations come easy with this style; all you need is a soft headband. This style embraces light waves and finishes them off with a delicate beaded headband which exudes elegance and grace.
It is perfectly suitable for all hair types but medium to long length hair is ideal for easier management. It is also convenient during travel or outdoor dinners when keeping hair off the face is desired without pulling it back.
To achieve this look, lightly wave your hair or embrace its natural shape, then polish the look with a slim headband. Product needs to be kept to a minimum in order to ensure hair moves freely.
This style is great for summer vacation and anyone wanting feminine appeal while low effort.
Twisted Ponytail with a Tropical Touch
A bold tropical hair clip adds personality to the otherwise simple style of a twisted ponytail. The practicality of this hairstyle is enhanced by the tropical clip, making this look both simple and elevated.
This style is perfect for sleek ponytails, as it suits people with long, straight hair who want to avoid styles that cling to the nape of their neck. It’s a staple in tourist spots where effortless elegance is preferred, especially during the humid months.
During this season, any remaining hair can be swiftly coped with by gathering the loose tendrils and securing them into a clip that works like a beautiful elastic. It holds everything in place and looks polished, even if it took seconds to arrange.
This hairstyle is wonderful for warm weather travelers, adding ease to the hair care routine while looking remarkable as it only takes a clip to cinch it.
High Bun Headband Curls
Individual strands wave effortlessly underneath an oversized headband that tightly holds the hair back, making this hairstyle the ultimate summer vacation crown. It’s brave, bold, and blissfully made to be enjoyed under the sun. This is quite literally the best summer vacation curly hairstyle.
Comfortable as it is striking, this design is softened by the frayed ends while the underlying bun is firmly lifted off the neck, appealing to hot-weather exhibitionists. It’s wonderfully exuberant for dry or coiled head textures, as the summer sun gleam everything this look embodies.
Raise a few ringlets into a loose top bun and wrap a soft head band around the front. Finish by letting a few curls cascade out effortlessly. Functional and fabulous.
This hairstyle definitely sits in the vacation hairstyles for Black women summer the beach category, and it checks every box for vacation hairstyles for Black women summer box braids alternatives that offer ease without full-on braiding.
Choppy short and full of personality
This tousled summer bob is city chic, charming. Romantic with her eye skimming fringe and soft texture, cool girl rebellious too.
For those in the short hair club or those contemplating a big chop pre-trip, this is one of the stand out vacation hairstyles short hair summer. Light, effort-less, and always camera ready.
To style, scrunch with some texturizing spray and let air-dry. The fringe can be parted, swept to the side, or pinned back. Add a neck scarf or bold lip to complete the look.
If you wish to spend summer vacation looking chic and stylish with minimal effort, this textured bob hairstyle will certainly turn heads.
Silk Bandana Wrap
We absolutely adore that the silk bandana wrap is back for summer vacations! To execute this look, all you need to do is place a silk scarf around the crown of your head and tie it low at the nape. This look is perfect for beach days, as it is effortless and stylish. The wrap also tends to enhance hair that is wavy or styled in loose curls, making this an excellent addition to vacation hairstyles for summer with a touch of European elegance.
This style shines with medium to long hair and works best with naturally textured styles. This look also retains some sun exposure to the hair as well as providing a cooling breeze, so you won't have to worry about overheating due to direct sunlight.
To capture the playful vacation spirit, select scarves with tropical or fun prints.
Styling tip: Let a couple of strands fall in front of the ears to soften the look and whack on some hoop earrings for extra glam.
French Braid Multi-Texture
Few hairstyles are easier to implement than a French braid, and it's quintessential for a summer getaway. A braid is chic and keeps hair in place when going through humid weather, saltwater, or other long travel days. This variant shows a slightly tousled and textured approach creating soft volume.
This style does wonders for medium to long hair, especially for those with balayage or sun-kissed highlights. As you travel to a vineyard or coastal town, this hairstyle stays in place through hile looking stunning.
Styling tip: After tying the braid, loosen it a bit to achieve soft, bohemian grace to the golden hour. Want a dressier vibe? Placing hair rings or flower pins sporadically will instantly elevate the style.
Twisted Half-Up with Clip
As easy as they come, this twisted half-up hairstyle is both elegant and suited for cute hairstyles for summer vacation. The rest of the hair is free to flow while the top is pulled back to frame the face beautifully. A gold decorative clip secures the style in place, infusing glamour to sunset boat rides or dinner cruises.
Great for straight or loose waves, this flattering style suits nearly all face shapes. The look appears blended as casual yet polished. This makes it appropriate for daytime exploration and evening outings.
Styling tip: For better grip and volume, add a little bit of texturizing spray before twisting. This hairstyle is a go-to when you want effortless beauty with minimal styling during your summer vacation.
Braided Buns with a Twist
Double Dutch braids twisted into side buns?! Sign me up! This vacation braids summer hairstyle is not only functional (hello, heat-friendly!) but full of flirty playfulness too. This style keeps hair off the neck while still adding shape, making the entire look fun and youthful.
Ideal for shoulder-length or medium length hair, this style is perfect for beach volleyball and lounging by the pool or even road trips. Best of all? It stays put all day, even in high temps or ocean breezes.
Styling tip: Use clear elastics for a clean finish, or colorful ones for a fun statement. Want it more whimsical? Wrap small ribbons through the braids.
Sleek Blonde Layers
Every now and again, sleek layered hair needs little to no maintenance. This summer vacation ‘do works with short hair and requires no upkeep while still making a statement. Summer demands lightness and movement, both of which are effortlessly achieved with layers.
Sleek layered hairstyles work best Straight hair. For those with wavy locks that love to keep things simple, aside from traveling straight, and packing a styling kit, layers are the best option. You can wear this hairstyle to a beach bar, music festival, or enjoy strolls down cobbled streets. It compliments every outfit and works with any scenario.
For optimum shine, use a lightweight shine serum and keep them trimmed effortlessly.
Soft Waves with a Chic Side Part
This hairdo has a beautiful blend of polish and nonchalance too. Chin grazing soft waves gives a classic bob a modern refresh with a deep defined side part. Every single wave has a mind of its own and adds flirtiness along with body to the style. It's bright, airy, and ideal for sunny days.
Easy & Chic Summer Hairstyles 2025 would be incomplete without this ne plus ultra bob spot on for those finer tresses and those wanting to maximize volume. It incorporates a hint of vintage old Hollywood glamour, yet still practical enough for an afternoon picnic or rooftop dinner and drinks.
The best part is that you can achieve this look practically in minutes with a curling wand and texture spray. For added gloss, apply a hair gloss serum, then place one side behind the ear and finish off with a bold earring.
This style offers utter simplicity yet great impact, great for day-to-night transition without much hassle adding movement.
Neatly Tucked Summer Sleek Bun
Currently, we have the minimalist's dream, a gently sculpted, tugged-back bun feels like it’s hugging the head and showcases one’s facial features effortlessly. It is neat, assertive, and unbelievably stylish. The volume discreetly and cleanly contoured adds a red carpet impression, without needing to be heat styled.
That's great for summer formal gatherings or even running mundane errands while feeling a bit elevated. It literally boosts cheekbone prominence, eyes focus upwards, and gives a put together impression in seconds.
The prep start by applying combing through with a smoothing serum. Then grab a boar bristle brush to shape the surface. Place the bun at the crown or nape whichever feels more comfortable. Finish the look with a light spray of flexible hold mist.
Why is this style a great choice? Because it is sweat-proof and wind-proof - allows easy summer hairstyles that don’t give up in any weather.
Side Braid with Loose Volume
Side braid seems to be the epitome of summer romance. This cute braid rests elegantly over the shoulder cascading down. Starts voluminous at the crown and softens around the face which is framing it delicately. Makes one think of bohemian and vintage styles.
This type of braid is perfect for casual walks during the summer or evenings spent dining outside. It doesn’t feel too ‘done’ or put together’ as it gives off that effortless, aware texture that marks so many Easy & Chic Summer Hairstyles 2025. And the best part is, no effort to versatility. Pair it with dresses, jeans, or even a tank top and you are good to go.
Enhancing this braid’s charm is simple, all you need is a texturizing spray that you should apply before braiding and when tugged at every loop it enhances fullness.
This style is for daydreamers, girls who enjoy a hint of whimsical detail to their everyday fashion.
Flowy Blonde Curls with Subtle Half-Pin
If you want a softer face-framing style without a full up-do, then this is the look for you. Long cascading blonde curls are only partly pinned back, allowing the tresses to be face-framing while keeping their volume and texture.
It is great for most face shapes and adds that effortless refined chic slouch polish. Relaxed, sun-kissed waves are the epitome of chic summer hairstyles in 2025.
To achieve these bends, curling the hair with a wide-barrel iron is recommended, securing the top section with a dainty barrette or mini claw clip. That single piece of jewelry transforms the whole hairstyle into intentional and adorable.
This hairstyle is resort-beach ready, which is exactly what vacation is all about.
Summary
Explore the collection of 25 stylish vacation hairstyles for summer 2025! Curly beach waves, box braids, intricate plaited hairstyles for summer holidays, and playful short hairstyles greet little girls’ heads. These vacation hairstyles are perfect for Black women, days at the beach, and tropical getaways.
