20 Summer Curly Hairstyles Ideas
Okay, let’s be honest for a second — summer and curly hair have a love–hate relationship.
On good days, the curls are bouncy, juicy, and the wind makes you feel like you’re in a music video.
But here’s the fun part: summer is actually one of the BEST seasons to show off curly hair.
You can play with texture, volume, and effortless styles that literally look better when they’re a little messy.
If you’ve been wondering what to do with your curls this season, grab your scrunchie because I’m about to walk you through 20 summer curly hairstyle ideas that are cute, practical, and 100% vibe-approved.
1. The Effortless Curly High Ponytail
Think: playful, bouncy, heat-free perfection.
A high ponytail with curls cascading down is one of those zero-stress summer hairstyles.
It keeps your hair off your neck (hello, heat relief) while still showing off your natural volume.
Add a little edge gel around the hairline, leave a curl or two out, and boom — instant summer glow-up.
2. Curly Half-Up, Half-Down
The half-up, half-down curly look is basically the best of both worlds.
It frames your face, keeps hair out of your eyes, and manages to look intentional even if you only had five minutes to get ready. Top knot or mini pony — your choice.
Pro tip: pair it with big hoops and lip gloss. Thank me later.
3. Loose Beachy Curly Waves
No, you don’t need salt water to get “beach waves.”
Your natural curls already KNOW what to do.
Looser, brushed-out curls give that relaxed sunset-by-the-shore vibe. Apply a lightweight mousse, scrunch, and let your hair air dry.
It’s the kind of style that looks better as the day goes on, which is exactly what summer hair should do.
4. Pineapple Updo
If curls had an official summer uniform, this would be it.
A pineapple updo isn’t just cute — it’s practical. You pile all your curls at the very top of your head and secure them with a scrunchie.
Your curls spill over like a pineapple crown (hence the name), and it also protects curls while you sleep.
It’s a lazy-day favorite that somehow still looks stylish.
5. Messy Curly Bun
There’s something undeniably powerful about throwing your hair into a messy bun and calling it a day. With curls, the volume does all the work for you.
A messy curly bun is casual, romantic, and perfect for hot days when you can’t bear hair sticking to your skin.
Bonus points if random curls fall out — they make it prettier.
6. Curly Bob for Summer
Short curls in summer? Yes. Yes. Yes.
A curly bob is fun, playful, and ridiculously easy to maintain when the heat kicks in. It frames your face beautifully and works whether your curls are tight coils or loose spirals.
You can go chin-length, shoulder-length, or just above the collarbone for a super fresh look.
Plus, nothing feels more freeing than chopping off dead ends.
7. High Puff
If your curls like to shrink (and they probably do in summer humidity), embrace it with a high puff. It’s like a ponytail, but fluffier and fuller.
This look shows off volume while keeping things neat.
It’s bold. It’s unapologetic. It says, “Yes, my hair grows upward — stare respectfully.”
8. Curly Headband Hairstyle
Headbands are having a comeback — and curly hair makes them look elite.
Use:
- a sporty elastic band
- a silk headband
- or a wide boho scarf
They keep sweat away from your forehead (bless) while giving your curls a soft halo effect. Perfect for summer festivals, beach walks, or pretending you’re the main character at a café.
9. Curly Space Buns
Want something fun and youthful? Enter space buns.
Split your curls into two ponytails and twist each into a bun. Leave some spirals loose in the front for extra softness. This style is playful, airy, and perfect for concerts, vacations, or days when you want your hair to match your energy.
10. Curly Bangs for Summer
Curly bangs used to scare people — now they’re trending like crazy.
They frame the face, soften your features, and add personality without needing a full haircut. Pair curly bangs with a loose ponytail, bob, or free-flowing curls and suddenly your hairstyle looks runway intentional.
Yes, they shrink. No, that’s not a bad thing.
11. Braided Crown With Curls Loose
Want to feel like a summer fairy?
Create a braid along each side of your head and pin them across like a crown while leaving your curls loose in the back. It’s whimsical, romantic, and stunning for:
- beach photos
- weddings
- summer parties
It looks complicated but actually isn’t — which is the best kind of hairstyle.
12. Curly Low Ponytail
Some days you don’t want a dramatic style — you just want chill and pretty.
A low ponytail with curls gives a relaxed, soft look and pairs perfectly with sundresses. Pull out face-framing curls and tie with a scrunchie or ribbon for an extra cute touch.
It’s simple, feminine, and perfect for hot afternoons.
13. Defined, Ultra-Glossy Curls
Sometimes the best style is just your curls… maxed out.
Deep-condition, define, and let your curls take center stage. Use curl cream or gel and scrunch until your arms get a mini workout. When your curls are moisturized and shiny, they don’t even need an “extra style.”
Natural texture is always in.
14. Curly Frohawk
Ready to be bold? Try a frohawk.
You pin or braid the sides and let the curls explode in the middle like a curly mohawk. It’s edgy yet elegant and works beautifully for summer nights out. Statement earrings? Mandatory.
This one says: “I didn’t come to play.”
15. Curly Top Knot
A top knot with curls hits differently than a sleek bun.
Instead of being tight and polished, it’s fluffy, soft, and full of personality. Leave some curls out around the hairline and allow the bun to look a little undone. It’s beach-day-friendly, airplane-friendly, and lazy-girl-friendly.
Basically, your go-to all summer.
16. Curly Ponytail With Scarf
Add a scarf to any curly ponytail, and boom — instant aesthetic upgrade.
You can:
- wrap it around the base
- let it flow with your curls
- or wear it as a head wrap
Scarves add color and movement, especially in summer prints like florals, tropical designs, and pastels. It’s simple but looks like you put effort into your look (even if you didn’t).
17. Wet Look Curls
This sleek, glossy style is perfect for nights out or formal events.
The “wet look” isn’t actually wet — it just looks that way using gel or curl custard. Define the curls, keep them close to the head, and let them shine. It gives mermaid energy, red carpet vibes, and pure confidence.
18. Mini Curly Ponytails (Bubble or Sectioned)
Playful? Check. Trendy? Also check.
Split your hair into multiple tiny ponytails or bubble sections. This style feels youthful and fun without needing heat or complicated braiding skills. It’s especially great if you love Y2K aesthetics or just enjoy experimenting.
19. Side-Swept Curls
Part your curls deeply to one side and let them cascade — instant drama.
Side-swept curls frame your face beautifully and work amazingly with bold earrings, eyeliner, and glossy lips. Whether you pin one side or just flip it, this look is romantic without trying too hard.
20. Letting Your Curls Go Completely Free
Honestly? Sometimes the best summer curly hairstyle is no hairstyle at all.
Let your curls exist.
Let them frizz a little.
Let humidity do its weird little thing.
Summer isn’t about perfection — it’s about movement, freedom, salt air, sunshine, late nights, laughter, and being comfortable in your own texture.
Your curls don’t need to be “tamed.” They just need to be loved.
Final Thoughts
Summer is the season for low-effort, high-confidence curly hairstyles. Whether you’re rocking a puff, bun, bob, bangs, or just letting your curls run wild, the key is this:
hydrate your hair
protect it from heat and sun
and have fun with it
Curls are naturally playful — summer just brings that side out even more.
