With the sun shining, golden hour photos, and days by the sea, is your hair prepared for summer 2025? Whether you’re packing for a dreamy tropical getaway or just living your best life stateside, choosing the right hairstyle isn’t just about looking cute (though, trust me, we’re doing that too). Your hairstyle should make you feel good, so pick something that’s easy to care for, withstands humidity, protects your hair, and adds a touch of glamour.
This year, it’s not about perfection — it’s about personality. There’s a strong trend towards looking great without much effort. Want something easy? Or maybe bold, curly, or sleek? Let’s go through this inspiration together and find the summer hair look you’ll love most. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Double Buns & Twisted Tendrils: The Flirty Cool-Girl Combo
It’s hard not to like the playful double buns, especially when they’re paired with those gently twisted front tendrils. It’s giving me carefree vacation hairstyles for summer 2025: chic inspiration, and I’m here for it. Those little hairs sticking out give the look a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for beach bars, birthday brunches, or casual Mexican nights. You’ll get the fullest bun look if your hair is either naturally textured or gently wavy.
How do you keep these buns intact in hot weather? A light spritz of Ouai’s Wave Spray before twisting gives your hair better hold and a soft, lifted appearance. I use a little curl-defining gel, for example from Briogeo, on the pieces that frame the face and twist them while wet to keep their shape.
This one’s my go-to for beach-to-bar days. I’ve used this look for evening dinners and didn’t have to retouch my hair — it always looks good. My trick? Be sure to twist the buns more firmly than you might expect. They’ll adjust themselves naturally when the sea breeze hits.
What would make this even better? Hair rings or pearl pins in the buns. They’re all over TikTok these days, and they give a subtle boost to the look without much effort.
Minimalist Half-Up with Statement Clip
This short, straight bob with a chunky flower claw clip is soft, sleek, low maintenance, and a secret many Pinterest users love. I find it perfectly balances simplicity with a touch of coolness. It’s ideal for those days when you’re short on time but want your look to say you made an effort. This short cut really highlights the silhouette, and the clip adds a touch of character.
It is necessary to keep this blunt cut looking polished. I suggest using a smoothing cream or leave-in conditioner, and Living Proof’s No Frizz has worked well for me. When it’s humid, making sure your hair doesn’t get frizzy is crucial for this style.
This look is perfect for me when I’m traveling to a tropical place and want to avoid heat styling, but still look put together. It’s done in under two minutes, and the flower clip is a bonus. It always gets compliments.
I think this style looks amazing with a linen set and strappy sandals. That’s your whole outfit done. Add sunscreen, and you’re good.
Glam Braided Pony with Bold Twists
If you’re looking for a hairstyle that exudes power and polish, this is it. This braided ponytail, enhanced by defined braids around the face and smooth roots, combines the elegance of high fashion with protective styling. The shine? Unreal. This is the sort of long braid I think of for a summer yacht party — simple yet daring, neat but imaginative.
To maintain this look, you’ll need good edge control (Pattern Beauty’s Edge Tool works well) and either braiding gel or pomade to keep the front smooth. If your hair is either color-treated or textured, using a hydrating leave-in at the ends becomes essential.
You can feel confident and powerful in this style, all without saying a word. I attended a birthday dinner last summer in a similar style and felt exceptionally confident. This style stays in place during heat, wind, and even dancing.
What could add extra dimension here? Adding gold cuffs or beads to the ends of your braids gives the look a definite island goddess feel. You know what I mean?
Loose French Braid with Rosy Vibes
Now this? It’s romantic, easygoing, and quietly powerful. A French braid this size, tied low and finished with a tucked tail, gives off a bohemian vibe that’s still elevated. That gentle, rosy hue in the hair? It’s the perfect look for a summer fling. This is a prime example of a summer 2025 vacation hairstyle: It’s a look that suits both wandering side streets and enjoying a sunset dinner.
This look works especially well with natural or gently wavy curly hair. It’s best to use a dry texture spray, such as Oribe’s Dry Texturizing Spray, to help your hair hold its shape without feeling heavy.
I have always been fond of looks like this. Perhaps it’s the gentle feel, or the memories of braiding my hair on family vacations, but this style always feels like home, just a bit more fashionable.
A silk scarf or some small flower pins will help you take this look from casual to dressed up. It instantly changes the braid from a basic look to one that fits festival style.
High Sleek Ponytail with Beaded Braids
Statement. Defined. Bold. This ponytail sits high, wrapped at the base, and styled with sleek ends and braids, making a bold statement that’s still perfect for the beach. The gold cuffs included here give off an island queen vibe, and the shine? Immaculate. If you’re heading somewhere like Mexico, this one’s got that instant “main character” vibe.
You’ll want a strong hold gel (Shine ’n Jam is recommended) and a rat-tail comb to help you part your hair precisely. Don’t forget to sleep with a silk scarf on — it will help your sleek look last.
I wore this same style on my last resort trip and honestly, I didn’t have to do anything to it for three days. Poolside, dinner, dancing… it lasted. That’s why protective and low maintenance hairstyles like this are so valuable.
Want to add some playful edge? You can add a bold scarf to the base or change the beads to complement your swimsuit. Trust me — it pops.
Elegant French Twist with Soft Texture
Timeless meets 2025. This French twist is light and soft, not like the traditional one, and fits perfectly with today’s sense of modern elegance. It suits a dressier dinner, a coastal wedding, or a summer work event just right. There’s a sense of airiness in the style, and it only takes a little work — that’s what I love about it.
To keep this style, you’ll need soft-hold hairspray and volume powder at the roots; I particularly like the Kristen Ess Volumizing Texture Powder. You want the lift to feel natural, not stiff.
I think of classic Riviera films whenever I see this look. It works equally well on long and short hair, based on how high you twist it. I think it goes well with red lips, glowing skin, and gold hoops. Simple but unforgettable.
You could make this style more modern with a small combed-back braid, or add an off-center gold hairpin for an asymmetric look. Do you find this look too much, or just right?
Sleek & Subtle Braids for Long Days
If you’re looking for a minimal look that still catches attention, this long hair style with soft braids around the face is perfect. It brings back Y2K vibes in the most refined way, avoiding any sense of costume. The rest of the hair remains poker-straight and smooth, so the tiny braids are the main feature. It’s both playful and fresh, and it really suits long summer days that become nights.
I always use a flat iron paired with a heat protectant, and the Color Wow Dream Coat really helps with shine and keeping frizz away. And don’t skip those tiny elastics; the clear ones from Kitsch hold beautifully without pulling.
It’s understated, yet I think it looks really cute. It’s perfect for brunch, a beach walk, or sightseeing in Mexico. No adjustments needed. It’s a look that doesn’t require you to seek attention, yet people notice it.
If you want to experiment, use a few tiny clips or charms — or simply keep it clean and sleek. Either way, it works.
Milkmaid Crown with Ribbon Tied Pony
There is a certain enchantment to this style — it’s gentle, soft, and carries a vintage femininity that fits 2025 perfectly. The braids form a crown shape, then join at the back with a soft ponytail that’s secured using a silky scarf. It’s perfect for those dreamy vacation days and picnics in light linen dresses. Honestly? It’s an uncomplicated and reliable method for handling hair in warm, humid places.
This hairstyle really appreciates texture, so dry shampoo is essential. I prefer the Batiste Volumizing line because it adds both hold and lift to natural hair. Just don’t skip the scarf. It brings the whole style together and keeps things feeling light and romantic.
Putting on this style makes me feel as if I am stepping into a storybook. I’ve worn this look to both birthday brunches and informal garden parties, and it always looks just right, especially with pearl earrings or soft florals.
You can add a fresh touch by using a polka-dot scarf or a pastel ribbon. The style is low maintenance, but still looks styled. What more do we need?
Voluminous Curls with Top Knot Accent
This curly hair style is undeniably bold, big, and absolutely eye-catching. The top knot is small and draws your gaze up, letting the fullness of the curls show below. It has a powerful, natural vibe and is the best way to show off natural hair textures with confidence. It’s the perfect style for dancing the night away on a rooftop in the tropics.
Keeping these curls bouncy means moisture, moisture, moisture. I can’t get enough of the Camille Rose Almond Jai Twisting Butter — it keeps my curls soft and doesn’t make them shrink. If you want to wear your curls for several days, try sleeping with your hair in a pineapple.
This style makes me feel alive. It’s both fun and powerful, so I can be heard without speaking. I want to keep that feeling throughout the entire summer.
Should you want to be daring, gold cuffs or a curly wig can complete the look. It’s adaptable and powerful — you don’t need directions.
Baby Bows & Butterfly Twists
It’s a delightful kind of messy that works perfectly. The soft, twisted sections with pastel claw clips are very youthful, but the look remains polished. The layers that frame your face look natural, and the hair’s texture stays relaxed. It looks like minimal effort — but we all see the real work involved. This style is quick to do, adorable, and perfect for keeping your hair in place on vacations, whether you’re on rides, hiking, or in the heat.
A good mousse, for example Amika Plus Size, is useful for adding both volume and hold. Using a fine-tooth comb to part your hair evenly will really improve the result.
It makes me think of summers as a child and wearing glittery lip gloss. I’d wear it paired with denim shorts and a ribbed tank, carrying sunscreen, as I rushed to meet my girls for iced coffee.
If I had the chance, I’d substitute some of the clips with tiny metallic butterflies or pearls. That’s the vibe: effortless whimsy.
Thick Dutch Braids with Cool Girl Energy
These braids, with their shine and definition, are perfect for anyone looking for easygoing travel hair. Having chunky, clean Dutch braids on both sides gives a grounded, structured look that is also very stylish. No matter if you’re traveling by plane or cycling at the beach, this style keeps your hair out of your face and your look intact. It’s suitable for both short and long hair, according to your length.
I always start with an edge styler (Pattern’s Edge Tool is excellent), and I use a braid balm to prevent frizz—I prefer Mielle Organics’ Pomade-to-Oil treatment.
This style is my airport ride-or-die. It stays sharp under a hoodie, holds up through long naps, and looks put together when I arrive. Protective and polished? Win-win.
The only thing missing? A touch of color extension, such as neon peeking through or copper woven in, could add surprise without losing sleekness.
High Braided Pony with Side Part Drama
Looking for a vacation hairstyles for summer 2025: chic inspiration moment that’s equal parts fierce and functional? This is it. A high ponytail made from sleek cornrows and a dramatic side part gives an immediate bold look. It’s steady, polished, and dazzling, just right for a hassle-free, glamorous look all day.
You’ll find this style lasts longest if you prep with plenty of holding gel, such as Eco Style Olive Oil Gel, and keep it in place with a silk scarf for at least 30 minutes. You’ll thank yourself later.
I wore this look to a rooftop dinner in Mexico last year and didn’t need to fix it at all. It remained intact through the heat, humidity, and dancing that made me lose all sense of time.
You can take it to the next level by threading a bold metallic wire through one braid, or by adding a feather. Make it yours.
Bubble Braid Wrapped in Satin Ribbon
I like to describe this bubble braid with a thick satin ribbon as effortlessly elegant. It’s neat, well-organized, and slightly romantic — perfect for strolling cobblestone streets or attending a summer dinner under a shaded terrace. The ribbon gives a gentle look, and the braid supplies a touch of visual appeal. It’s an easy way to make a classic braid look different.
If you want the ribbon to stay put, I suggest using medium-hold hairspray and securing it with hidden bobby pins at the ribbon’s ends. I chose the Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray in Medium and it kept my hair in place without making it feel heavy.
You might notice that this style catches people’s attention enough to stop you — it’s happened to me. I wore this style as I wandered through a historic city square and received two compliments before I bought my gelato.
You are free to select a ribbon color that matches your desired vibe. If you’re heading out for brunch, a soft floral print works well, but for a date night, bold red is more fitting. The possibilities? Endless.
Chunky Bubble Ponytail with Defined Texture
The bubble ponytail combines bold shape with softness, and it really works for people with long or curly hair. The consistent placement of the ties adds both volume and shape, resulting in a cartoonish effect that’s very much on trend for 2025. It’s great for beach days when it’s humid, and it doesn’t lose its glam appeal at night — that’s what makes it so versatile.
Should your hair need extra lift, dry shampoo at the crown and volumizing mousse before each tie will make a big difference. I use OGX’s Coconut Curls mousse for definition and hold, and it doesn’t leave my hair feeling crunchy.
There’s something kinda superhero about this style. It gives confident, cool-girl energy without trying too hard. I’d pick this hairstyle for travel days when I want to look pulled together.
Want to glam it up? Adding metallic elastics or pearl accents between the bubbles will give your look a touch of subtle sparkle.
Half-Up Braided Crown with Loose Waves
This half-up braided crown and loose waves together create the perfect vacation look. It’s equal parts beach-ready and night-out-flirty. The crown highlights the face, and the loose waves ensure a breezy and soft appearance. Wear it with linen, florals, or a swimsuit cover-up, and you’ll still have that hair commercial look.
For a fuller and cleaner crown braid, dust the roots with a texturizing powder, for example, SexyHair’s Powder Play. That extra hold makes your braid stand out while your waves stay loose and beachy.
This is one of my ride-or-die summer styles. I tried this style on a short vacation last year, and it stayed intact through both a windy picnic and a rooftop dinner.
I think this style would be wonderful with sun-kissed skin and some layered gold necklaces. You know the vibe.
Wrapped Leather Rope Braid with Boho Finish
The look of a ponytail bound in leather and braided loosely gives off a mix of vintage explorer and contemporary muse. Adding rope to the style gives it a rough and refined look that really suits tropical or outdoor adventures. It is both secure and stylish, which is not something you often find in one look.
You don’t need heat tools — just brush your hair upward and wrap the leather cord firmly. I rely on a serum such as Kérastase Elixir Ultime to keep the ends smooth and the hair looking naturally shiny.
I feel as though I could be stepping off a scooter in Positano or wandering through a local market without shoes. It’s practical yet so curated.
Replacing the leather wrap with suede or gold cording quickly transforms the style from rough to elegant. So many ways to make it yours.
Mini Twists, Braided Tendrils, and a Top Knot
We have mini twists, long braided pieces that dangle, and a full top knot, all working together to add texture for curly or natural hair. It’s a style that is both fast to do and makes a statement. And honestly, those subtle tendrils? They frame the face like a dream.
You don’t need heat for this style — just use your chosen curl cream (I use the Curl Enhancing Smoothie by SheaMoisture) and twist your hair while it’s still damp. Once they air dry, I softly pull apart the twists for that ideal look.
I’m reminded of a birthday brunch where everyone was photographing their hair, and this style stood out for the most “where did you get that done?” questions. That’s when I knew.
You might also add metallic rings or cuffs into the twists to give the style a festive feel.
Braided Loc-Inspired Rows with Golden Detail
This look? It’s designed to highlight the protective and cultural value of loc-inspired braids, but with a bold touch of glamour. Golden clips and coiled jewelry are woven into tight cornrow sections, which end in thick ropes that reach below the shoulders. It honors Black beauty traditions with its richness and expressiveness, and still feels up-to-date for 2025.
To keep this style healthy, it’s important to use oils such as jojoba or castor, and I find the TPH “Keep Shining” spray provides light shine and scalp nourishment. Wearing a silk scarf overnight keeps the style neat and in place.
From music festivals to luxury resorts and weddings, I’ve noticed this style always works well. It’s a crown in every sense.
If you want to take it even further? Adding temporary colored wraps or shell charms will help you achieve an island princess glow-up.
Curly Crown Twist with Volume
There is a strong appeal to this voluminous half-up curly hairstyle. The crown is formed by sectioning and twisting the top, then securing it so the curls underneath stand out. It has the vibe of a goddess who’s busy, both stylish and uncomplicated. If you’re packing light but still want to feel luxe on vacation, this is a go-to.
A curl cream with plenty of moisture, such as Pattern Styling Cream, helps to shape and soften your curls, and a non-crunchy edge control product keeps the braids looking neat. Heat styling isn’t necessary—your natural texture looks best in this style. Perfect for naturally curly or natural hair.
I’m consistently surprised by how effortlessly this style makes me look put together. You’ll find it useful for warm evenings out or after swimming, when you’d rather not restyle your hair. And yes—this style protects your hair without requiring a complete tuck.
If you’re heading to Mexico or any tropical destination, don’t underestimate how resilient this look is against frizz and humidity. It’s giving freedom and finesse.
Bandana Braids with Boho Vibes
This gentle double braid finished with a bandana is perfect for a vibe that moves from road trips to the beach and into sunset dinners. The braids are loose and sit low, and the long hair’s texture paired with a silky scarf gives a modern boho feel to vacation hairstyles. It’s simple yet flirty, low-effort yet full of personality.
A leave-in detangler, for example It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In Spray, should be in your beach bag to keep your hair soft. Because this look is so easy, you’ll probably spend longer picking out your sandals than styling your hair.
I’ve relied on this style for travel by plane and boat, and it stays in place all day while giving me lovely waves. Totally worth it.
If you want to take it up a notch, I’d suggest just one thing: A bit of sea-salted spray at the ends will help you get that beachy look without the usual dryness.
Messy Bun with Retro Headband
Messy bun lovers—this one’s for you. This style combines a knotted rust-colored headband, a couple of soft face-framing pieces, and that effortless look we all try to achieve, making it exactly what I love about vacation hair. It’s fast, easy, and totally cute.
Honestly, this look works best when your hair isn’t perfectly clean. I find that Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo gives my hair both shape and grip, without making it feel harsh.
It’s hard not to think of a chic ferry ride to Capri or a slow stroll through an island town with an espresso when you see this look. Hair pulled up, sunglasses on, done.
Let’s be real: it’s an easy way to feel glamorous, even if your swimsuit is not completely dry.
Elegant Twist for Evenings
This updo, with its soft waves and structured shape, is ideal for standing out at a candlelit dinner by the sea. It’s structured but breezy, giving Old Hollywood energy but with a warm-weather softness. Medium to long hair looks best with this style, making it easy to stay put-together without effort.
When it comes to looks like this, Kenra Volume Spray 25 is my top choice for hold that doesn’t flake. You’re looking for a style that won’t fall apart in the car or when the ocean breeze blows.
I’ve used this look for weddings and birthdays overseas, and it stays in place even in humid weather. Just pack extra pins, babe.
The one thing I’d say? If you’re going somewhere with high temperatures, a curling wand will help you refresh your soft waves.
Blush Braided Wraps
Okay, this one’s a visual treat. Pale pink hair styled into twin wrapped braids using ties that match the color? It’s charming, inventive, and in my opinion, one of the most stylish vacation hairstyles I’ve seen. It’s part Y2K revival, part futuristic fairy tale. This look owns its uniqueness.
It takes some effort to keep bold colors like this, but Overtone Pink Deep Treatment helps maintain their vibrancy between washes. In addition, washing your hair with cold water helps keep the color from fading too quickly.
If you’re planning a trip for something fun like a festival or birthday, I think this look would be a great change. It’s pure hair candy.
Not into permanent color? A pastel wig can be styled the same way—whether it’s curly or straight, the result will be just as good.
Half-Up Braided Gold Bead Style
Half-up, half-wild, and fully gorgeous—this braid-and-bead combo on curly strands combines neatness with a carefree look. Gold accents on the micro braids hug the face, with the rest of the hair kept full and soft. Total natural hair goddess moment.
I always use Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Curl Smoothie to style and protect this look because it’s lightweight, defines curls, and has a vacation-like scent.
This one speaks to me because it says: I’m here to make a statement, but I’m also here to relax. Perfect for island adventures or outdoor summer events.
You can make this style more interesting with loc jewelry, even if you don’t have traditional locs. Adding gold or copper pieces can make the style catch the light beautifully.
Twisted Crown Ponytail
If you’re looking for a ponytail with a twist, this high ponytail with a crown twist is both sporty and feminine. The way the twist fits the crown, the bounce, and the volume? It’s perfect for a brunch on the rooftop or dancing all night in Mexico.
You’ll find TRESemmé Extra Hold is perfect for this style, giving you lift without stiffness. Adding a bit of texture spray to the ponytail’s end really helps.
I’d wear this with oversized earrings and a linen outfit. It’s a timeless style, but the twist adds something fresh, which I think is perfect for summer vacations.
It’s also a practical style for those who need something easy as they move from tours to tapas to lounging by the pool.
Once you’re ready for the next round, just let me know—I’ll keep sharing these amazing styles in the same way.
Conclusion
In 2025, vacation hair isn’t limited to trends; it’s about what makes you feel comfortable. If you’re going to a tropical destination, marking a birthday, or simply need easy and stylish hair, these looks are ready to accompany you. You’ll find a vibe for every destination, whether it’s braided details, curly wigs, dreamy updos, or natural hair styles.
So, the next time you’re packing your suitcase, ask yourself—what story do I want my hair to tell this trip?
