Practical Summer Swimming Hairstyles 2025: Cute & Tangle-Free Ideas for Pool and Beach Days

It’s getting hot, the pool is inviting and if you’re like me—you’re already looking at your sunscreen and a tangle-free brush. But let’s pause for a second. How often have we gotten out of the water with a tangled mess, flat bangs or a bun that’s now a soggy mess? Yeah, same here. That’s why I’ve gathered the most useful summer swimming hairstyles for 2025—styles that look good and can handle salt, chlorine and sweat.

Want to see some outfits that look great from your morning swim to your evening drinks by the cabana? Keep looking, because these ideas are not only trendy—they’re also practical.

Playful Twin Buns with Face-Framing Bangs

There’s a simple charm to twin buns placed at the crown—it seems like you didn’t even try, but everyone wants to know your secret. This style is ideal for medium hair and long hair, especially if you’re rocking layered cuts or curtain bangs that like to fall forward with personality. What makes this one perfect for summer swimming? It keeps most of your hair out of the way and away from your neck, but it’s still fun for poolside pictures.

It’s a good idea to use a light hold spray or tangle free leave-in conditioner before styling, especially if your hair is curly or just washed. If you want to avoid frizz and enjoy soft hair that isn’t crunchy in the sun, I recommend the OUAI Leave-In Conditioner.

I usually wear this when I’m playing beach volleyball with friends. The buns hold up whether I’m sweating or diving into the water, and the face-framing pieces keep it flirty. It’s a great look that looks good whether your hair is naturally dry or wet.

One thing to watch for? Flyaways. They add charm but also tangle quickly. A small comb and a bit of gel after swimming can make your hair look great.

Sporty Sleek High Bun

This style is the simple, strong version of every summer updo—it’s pulled up, wrapped tight and ready to go. You can wear this look when you’re moving from your morning workout to running errands or having lunch and you don’t want to keep fixing your hair. It is most effective on longer or medium hair, especially when the shape is not easily disturbed by layers falling out.

A smooth finish can be achieved with a good pomade or wax and Bumble and bumble’s Sumotech has made a big difference for me. If you use the right products, water won’t affect this style.

I love this style because it gives me confidence. It seems solid, well-structured and a bit in charge. When I put it on, I’m serious—it tells everyone I came to swim and to support myself.

What’s missing here? If you’re going out after, a bit of softening might be nice. I occasionally pull a few strands free around my ears to give my hair a more relaxed look.

Bubble Braids with Rope Twist Accent

Okay, this one is a summer masterpiece. Long braids are paired with the fullness of bubble texture, held apart by neat elastics. The extra twists make the style look sculpted, much like a hairstylist would design for a magazine, but it’s also possible to do at home. Best part? It is a very safe style to wear when you’re at the beach or by the pool.

It may take some time and good hair ties, but you’ll be glad you did it. If you’re in the sun, use Moroccanoil Treatment Light to get a glossy rope-twist look.

I feel a bit nostalgic about this one, since it reminds me of the styles my mom did before swim camp, but this is the updated version from 2025. This hairstyle is proof that you can have fun with your summer swimming look.

If you prefer a finished look without using heat tools, this is perfect for you. The elastic parts of the hair keep your hair mostly dry and free from tangles.

Classic Double Braids for Active Days

Double braids are always a good choice, especially if they’re tight enough to stay in place during your workout. Great for those with curly or long hair and ideal for anyone whose layers tend to fall out of buns. They are also considered some of the most reliable ways to protect your hair.

I prep my hair with a little curl cream (SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie works wonders for 4c hair and wavy strands) and part it down the middle with a tail comb. You can even sleep in this style if you’re planning a weekend on the coast.

This look tells me: “I’m ready to enjoy myself and I brought everything I need.” You can wear this scent while paddleboarding, hiking to a waterfall or just relaxing by the pool—it will stay smelling great all day.

Want to switch it up? You can add color and style by using elastics or tying your hair with thin scarves. Even the smallest detail makes this more you.

Floral Twist Low Bun

This low twist bun is soft, elegant and still useful. It’s a laid-back cousin of the French twist, perfect for people wearing sandals and linen dresses. It’s great for brunch after swimming or for a beach date at sunset, when you want to look nice but still casual. It is easy to use on medium and long hair, as you can tuck and roll it without difficulty.

Secure the style with a few bobby pins and a floral clip and we recommend the Emi Jay claw clips because they’re sturdy and beachy. I use Davines OI Oil to add a bit of moisture to my ends. A little goes a long way.

There’s something romantic about this one. I wore the same outfit to a rooftop dinner after swimming in Malibu and people complimented me more than I thought they would.

If you’d like, add a real flower or a shell to give your hair a mermaid-like look. It’s not flashy, but it’s one of the most surprising trends for 2025.

Protective Bantu Knots with Pop Color Bands

If you have black natural hair, 4c hair or short hair—Bantu knots will be your go-to style for the summer. They are both protective and easy to care for and they look adorable and are useful in humid weather. The neon elastic wrap is trendy and keeps everything in place, so it’s great for swimming or enjoying a festival outdoors.

Moisture retention is key—especially if you’re hitting saltwater. I always start by applying Camille Rose Almond Jai Twisting Butter to the knots. It feeds your hair and keeps your curls in place and it smells wonderful.

I love how confident this style feels. It’s not shy about being bold and useful and it can serve as a base for a twist-out the next day.

A good idea is to match the elastics to the color of your swimsuit or cover-up. It turns the whole look into a moment.

Chunky Braids to Low Swirl Buns

This style combines strength with softness—long, thick hair braided and twisted into two identical buns at the back. The braids give the hair structure and the coiled finish keeps everything neat and ready to go in the water. Whether you’re hitting a rooftop pool or heading to a sandy shoreline, this one’s a showstopper that holds steady even in wind and waves.

I like to prep this with a rich styling cream like Aveda’s Brilliant Humectant Pomade—it gives control without stiffness, especially for medium hair. Slick your hair down before braiding to help prevent frizz and fuzz after swimming.

There’s something punk-sweet about this vibe. It makes me think of festival street style—wild hair colors and tight outfits that stay put even when it’s very hot. One of my favorite things? It stays put during backstroke.

You can make your buns more interesting by wrapping a scrunchie or adding some clear beads. Functional can still be fun.

Minimalist Bubble Ponytail

This long hair easy bubble ponytail is a great and fun choice for swimming, but it’s not talked about enough. When the elastics are spaced evenly, your hair is sectioned and held in place, so it doesn’t get in your face or tangle up after you dip. Ideal for straight or barely-wavy hair.

Before banding, spray each section with a light mist of smoothing spray such as Kristin Ess Weightless Shine Spray, to get a glossy finish without the weight. If you’ve been swimming in saltwater, wash your hair with clean water as soon as you get out to prevent dryness.

I often choose this place when I want a change but don’t want anything too fancy. It’s simple to style, looks great in pictures and is useful for swimming or walking in the heat.

If you want to be sure your swimsuit doesn’t slip, use no-slip elastics—they’ll stay in place no matter how you dive in. Promise.

Contrast Braids with Twisted Buns

The style moves right into low buns, making it look both neat and fun. The difference between light and dark colors adds extra detail that’s just too lovely to miss. If you have long hair, it’s great for swimming and working out in the water without dealing with tangles.

Braiding the hair tightly from the roots to the ends holds everything in place and a little edge control gel like Eco Style Olive Oil Gel helps keep flyaways under control when I’m out in the sun all day. It’s especially helpful when you’re doing laps or water aerobics and want to stay in place.

I brought this to a friend’s birthday party by the pool and it stayed in great shape through swimming, lounging and two hours of karaoke. That’s saying something.

If your hair is colored, this style is a good choice because it highlights your color and protects your strands. Plus, you won’t need to restyle post-swim.

Beachy Braids with a Low Knot

This is one of the most stylish beach-friendly outfits available. The look is finished with two braids that come together in a soft low bun, creating a feel of being on a Mediterranean vacation. It’s low-maintenance but polished—great for both saltwater swims and those chill “just reading by the waves” days.

If your hair is curly or tends to get frizzy, use a leave-in conditioner like Kérastase Soleil Crème UV Sublime before braiding. This way, your hair remains smooth and hydrated even when you’re near the ocean.

I use this technique when I want to look nice but still keep my summery, natural style. A mix of firmness and softness is what makes it work so well.

It’s a good idea to have a few extra bobby pins in your beach bag, since ocean breezes can be very strong.

Effortless High Poolside Bun

This bun with lots of texture is the perfect look for a cool summer. Raised high and with a few loose strands, it’s a style that can handle both sunbathing and a quick swim. It looks great on medium to long hair and suits every type of hair, whether it’s straight or curly.

You don’t need to overthink this one. Just gather your hair loosely, twist, pin, and go. I find that spraying dry shampoo before twisting my hair makes it fuller and easier to keep in place. You can find summer in a bottle with Amika Perk Up.

When I’m tired after swimming, I put my hair in a bun to look like I made an effort. It’s casual, classic, and lets your skin breathe.

If you want to look dramatic, add some red lipstick and sunglasses—it’s surprisingly glamorous in just 30 seconds.

Cornrow-Inspired Power Braids

If you have black natural hair, 4c hair or want a style that can handle chlorine, sweat and sun—these braids are perfect. Braiding the hair close to the scalp and then leading it into a single plait makes this style both protective and fashionable. It’s a great hairstyle for swimming in the summer if you are active.

Apply Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner to your hair to keep your scalp and roots well moisturized in the sun. Bonus: it smells amazing.

This is one of the protective looks I always notice at the pool. It’s useful, but it also shares a story about culture, care and creativity. If you’re planning to swim a lot this summer, this could be your favorite outfit.

Want a softer finish? Try adding a small braid or twist to the hair behind your ear. There are endless ways to personalize this one.

Secure Double Braids for Short Hair

This one’s a keeper for short hair black or just short, straight styles in general. The double braid holds everything in place and the ends are tied at the nape to make sure no strands come loose while swimming. I prefer this style when it’s hot and I don’t want my hair bothering me—it’s quick and easy.

A little gel or mousse (try Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Sculpting Gel even for non-curly hair) helps keep these neat without hardening like glue. It works just as well when you flip, dive or swim for a long period.

This shape is simply adorable—it’s neat, youthful and screams summer. I’ve used this style for morning paddleboard yoga and felt it looked good enough to run on the beach without fixing it.

If you’re looking for ideas that will help with shorter styles, this one is a great choice.

Windswept Braid into Beach Bun

I love this messy braid-turned-bun because it’s perfect for a relaxed beach day. It keeps the hair back without making the silhouette too harsh which is perfect for long or lightly curly hair. The texture is what makes the food taste even better after you’ve been in the water.

I like to spray on a little wave spray before styling and OUAI Wave Spray is perfect for adding soft waves without making the hair too stiff. Pin the twist and let it settle—don’t overthink it.

I put this on at beach weddings or when I have a sunset dinner after swimming. You can dress it up or down, depending on what you wear. It’s as if you’ve come out of the ocean and into the warm glow of golden hour.

It’s easier if your hair is already a little curly, but you can use it on straight hair as well. If you’d like a more boho look, just add a tiny braid or ribbon.

Twisted Cornrow Top Knot

This look which combines braids and a bun, is the perfect summer style. It takes the weight off your neck and the front rows help keep the look neat. Perfect for days when you’re swimming a lot and want to keep your style.

This style looks great on black natural hair and 4c hair when you use a hydrating edge control like the Melanin Haircare Multi-Use Softening Leave-In Conditioner beforehand. Moisturizing is very important when you’re using chlorine.

I noticed a similar style on a Miami lifeguard last year and couldn’t look away. It’s functional, detailed, and unapologetically sharp.

A good idea is to use lightweight hair jewelry or thread a bit of color into one cornrow to make your style unique.

Braided Crown with Low Tie

If you want to feel like a goddess by the pool, this tight braided crown into a simple low tie is perfect. It’s ideal for long or medium hair, especially if you have fine hair that tends to fall out of buns. The neat braid across the top keeps everything polished.

Use a little brush to make the top smooth, then braid it and finish with a non-greasy serum, like Verb Ghost Oil. It doesn’t make your hair heavy or greasy, especially if you have lighter hair.

This is a great summer swimming hairstyle because it’s so versatile. I wore it during a late summer poolside BBQ and it stayed perfect even after a surprise water balloon ambush (yes, that happened).

If your hair slips, use a velvet scrunchie or spiral hair tie to keep the base in place without breaking it.

Twisted Braids with Flower Clip

This braid is soft, girly and has a retro feel, but it’s still modern thanks to the floral claw clip. It’s perfect for long hair easy styling, especially when you’re poolside but still want to look put-together for those candid snaps.

Apply a light styling milk like Davines OI All-In-One Milk to your hair to help with twisting and give the clip something to hold onto, without making your hair greasy. Don’t twist too tightly—you want softness and movement.

I like to make this when I’m on a slow vacation and want to go from the beach to gelato. It’s a delicate style, but it can handle a bit of wind.

Switch out the flower clip for something metallic if you’re going out after. Instant mood shift.

Sporty French Braids into Low Tie

If you are looking for softness with a competitive advantage, this style is for you. Two braids are pulled tight on the head and end in a low ponytail that wraps around the hair. It’s easy to use, doesn’t get tangled and is great for swimming, water sports or just relaxing by the pool.

The first step is to spray on a texturizing mist to help hold the style—I like to use Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray. It keeps the braids in place, even if your hair is fine or you just washed it. Tie the pony’s base with a strong cord to keep it in place.

I pick this outfit when I’m going to swim laps and still want to look nice for brunch afterward. It gives just enough structure without being too formal.

If your hair keeps falling out, braid the layers more tightly and use small elastics to hold the ends.

Playful Braided Bubble Pigtails

There’s something undeniably fun about this combo of French braids that transition into bubbly pigtails—think school-girl energy meets grown-up beach babe. I enjoy that this style holds the roots in place with braids and then gives the hair extra lift and movement in the bubble sections. It’s ideal for long hair, especially if you’re going to be in and out of the water all day. All the segments are tied securely, so the shape stays the same after the fish swims in salt water.

I really like that this style doesn’t require much effort once you’ve put in the initial work. I’d suggest prepping your hair with a light mousse (try Amika Plus Size Volume & Body Mousse) to give the bubbles some structure. It’s also great for humid weather which is important when you’re near the beach.

For me, this look gives girl-who-knows-what-she’s-doing. It’s cute, sure, but it’s also super functional. I put this outfit on for a weekend trip and didn’t worry about my hair at all. It made me look put together without any effort which is exactly what I want in summer.

If you have long hair and want a style that won’t hurt, this is the one for you. It keeps your hair neat, looks stylish even when a little frizzy from salt spray and won’t make you sweat around your neck. Stylishly strategic.

Classic Double Dutch with a Twist

We’ll talk about Dutch braids which are so easy to do that they feel like second nature, but with a little twist. The casual feel of this version comes from the loose pull-through near the crown and the relaxed tail, so it’s perfect for any poolside volleyball game. It’s giving “cool girl who remembered sunscreen.”

To keep your braid looking nice all day, apply a little leave-in conditioner before you start braiding. I’ve found that It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In works well for me—it keeps my hair moisturized and helps reduce frizz as I dry it in the sun. And always, always secure with snag-free elastics.

Why do I always choose this style when I’m by a pool? It’s the low effort with high payoff. If you’re swimming or just relaxing on a float with your friend, this style will still look great in photos. You can use it on medium hair as well, especially by fluffing the braid with your fingers to add some extra volume.

I once wore this to a poolside brunch, got shoved into the water by my cousin (rude), and STILL looked cute when I got out. If that doesn’t show a good style, what else would?

Faux Hawk Bubble Braids

This one’s a showstopper. You get volume, edge and attitude, all with a surprisingly simple method. The faux hawk-style bubbles give the hair a bold shape that looks great on thick or textured hair. If you have curly or long hair, this is one of those ideas you’ll come back to whenever you want to make a splash (literally and style-wise).

I recommend applying Kristin Ess Volumizing Powder at the roots and gently teasing each section before making each bubble. That’s how you can achieve volume without overdoing the teasing.

Personally, this style always makes me feel powerful. It’s a surprise, especially by the pool and it makes you feel like a cool girl. I’ve taken it to outdoor shows and rooftop parties and people always tell me how much they like it.

Looking for a swimsuit that’s both cute, practical and a bit edgy for the summer? This is your girl.

Beach Bun with Statement Clip

Is it really summer if you haven’t done the beach bun at least once? The bold leopard print claw clip in this version makes it the epitome of cool and easy style. It’s the texture, a bit of a twist and allowing your hair to fall naturally that makes it work. It is effective for damp hair, dry hair, long hair, medium hair and all types in between. It’s not about perfection. It’s about the vibe.

I’m being honest: not every hair clip is made the same. Choose clips that have a firm spring and wide teeth such as the Kitsch XL Recycled Plastic Claw Clip. They hold a bun without slipping—even with wet hair. A bit of dry shampoo or sea salt spray beforehand will give you the grip and sun-kissed look we all want.

This is for the girls who want to look put-together without having to think too much. I wore this on my bike ride to the beach and didn’t need to fix it after swimming because it was so strong. You can get a great style without having to use heat or spend extra time.

It’s giving “I just threw this up” energy in the best possible way. Have it on hand for days when you’re in a hurry, lounging by the pool or enjoying a relaxed dinner outside.

Polished Top Knot with Curtain Bangs

I love the way this top knot looks with soft hair framing the face. It’s tidy and safe, but it doesn’t seem too strict or uncomfortable. If you want to look like a ballet-core goddess at the beach, but still want your bangs to move with the breeze, this is the style for you.

If your hair has a natural wave or curly texture, run a bit of styling cream through before twisting (I love Ouai’s Curl Crème—it’s light and doesn’t get crunchy). After that, use a strong elastic and a few pins to hold it high.

This one’s my go-to for coffee catch-ups post-beach. It looks great when dry, the bangs give it a softer touch and it feels both relaxed and elegant. A useful MVP in my Practical Summer Swimming Hairstyles 2025 list.

Need an easy go-to that’s elevated but fuss-free? You just found it.

Cornrow-Inspired Festival Braids with Pop-of-Color Wrap

This style is about being confident and in charge—tight cornrow braids that end in a neat ponytail. The bold wrap thread gives the bag a fun surprise and doesn’t take away from its usefulness. It’s ideal for summer days when you’re always active, since it’s both protective, practical and trendy. If your hair is long, this is the perfect way to avoid getting hot and sweaty.

For this style, it’s best to use damp or conditioned hair so that parting is easier and there are fewer flyaways. I apply Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Coil Sculpting Custard to my hair for coils, but also for a strong grip and a shiny finish on tighter braids. If you’re prepping for a beach trip, braid the night before, sleep on a silk pillowcase, and wake up ready to go.

This braid makes me think of the music fest I attended last July. I was looking for a product that wouldn’t come off in the heat, with sweat or from a splash and this one did great. It was especially beautiful at sunset, so the pictures turned out even better. Sometimes, hair just has to multitask.

If you want something that’s both exciting and challenging, this is the one for you. You can wear it all day, whether you’re at the beach or at a sunset party and it will still be comfortable.

Loose Low Braid for Ocean Ease

A simple three-strand braid hits different when it’s paired with silky, long hair and the kind of day that smells like sunscreen and saltwater. This style is so easy to achieve—it’s smooth, neat and keeps your hair in place as you enjoy summer like a sea nymph. Wrapped in a soft ribbon, it’s a great choice: classic, polished and very easy to untangle.

If your hair gets puffy or tangled easily, apply Sun Bum’s 3-in-1 Detangler before you get in the water. It will help your braid look smoother and be much simpler to untie later.

I didn’t think much of this style until I wore it to the beach in August. It stayed in great shape after I swam and played volleyball. My hair stayed neatly braided and my ends were safe, showing that long hair easy styles are real.

This is the braid you reach for when you’re going somewhere—across sand, across city, or across time zones. It’s reliable. And pretty. And ready for adventure.

Low Braided Bun with Side Braids

I made this one for my Type-A water girls—sleek, secure and subtly intricate. Beginning with small braids on the sides that are gathered into a coiled bun, it’s a great way to protect your hair. It’s a simple and clean design, but not too severe, so you can wear it by the pool or while playing beach games.

I recommend using a lightweight gel to control the braids (Camille Rose Aloe Whipped Butter Gel is great, especially for finer textures) and then pinning the bun with strong U-pins for hold. The main focus of this style is to have clean sections and prepare well.

It makes me think of summer camp lifeguards who always seemed to be too handsome to be sweating in the sun. It doesn’t move around, keeps your hair mostly dry in wet areas and is still effective when you add sunglasses and earrings.

When your swim day includes a dinner plan after? This is the go-to. Elegant but easy.

Double Dutch Braids into Soft Curls

Double Dutch braids are sporty, but if you curl the ends, you’ll have a soft and adorable style that’s still ready for action. This style looks best when your roots are neat and your hair is long, whether it’s curly or wavy. That small ribbon at the tie is what makes it perfect.

The secret is to apply a curl-enhancing mousse to your loose hair before braiding, so it keeps its shape after you swim. I really like the Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk line and the Defining Cream is my favorite for a soft, non-crunchy look.

I wore this style to a nearby swim meet last summer, just to watch and people thought I’d had it done professionally. I finished it in less than 10 minutes in my car using a mirror.

This style is versatile, with a sporty base, a romantic finish and prepared for anything 2025 might bring. Add it to your ideas list.

Slicked and Braided Boater Bun

Sleek side braids lead to a large bun that’s tucked at the back of the head—this style is sure to impress. If your summer plans include anything nautical (or just breezy), this style holds strong against winds, water, and humidity. It suits medium-thick hair best and looks great on those with highlights who want to show off in the sun.

Use a strong-hold styling cream (like Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream) on damp hair, and braid immediately. This not only sets the shape but protects your strands while you’re out soaking in rays or sea spray.

I wore this on a boat tour in the Keys and it stayed in place the whole time, even after swimming and facing the wind. It’s a hairstyle that moves with you, not against you.

Want something sleek yet tangle free? This bun is your summer anchor. Totally secure. Always chic.

Conclusion

So, whether you’re diving into the waves, lounging poolside, or just chasing that sunkissed glow, these Practical Summer Swimming Hairstyles 2025 have your back—literally. You’ll find everything from secure buns to long hair braids, so there’s a style for every style and every type of hair. The best part? You can now enjoy both style and comfort at the same time. Which one are you trying first?