20 Summer Holiday Hairstyles: Your Go-To Guide for Effortless Vacation Hair
Let’s be real—summer holidays aren’t about perfecting your hair for hours in front of a mirror.
They’re about sipping something cold by the beach, exploring cobblestone streets, and snapping way too many photos.
So, what’s the sweet spot? Hairstyles that are easy, stylish, and hold up against sun, sweat, saltwater, and humidity.
Ready to lock down some inspo for your next trip? Let’s talk summer holiday hairstyles that will actually work when you’re on the move.
The Magic of Summer Hairstyles: Why They Matter
Think about it: you plan your outfits, pack your sunscreen, even buy that extra-cute beach hat. But when it comes to hair? Many of us just wing it. Big mistake.
The right hairstyle can:
- Save you time (no one wants to spend an hour with a flat iron in a hotel bathroom).
- Keep you cool when the temps are climbing.
- Look good in photos without requiring multiple “hair check” breaks.
- Handle humidity (because frizz is basically summer’s little prank).
And honestly, when your hair looks good, you feel more confident—whether you’re ordering gelato or dancing barefoot at a beach bar.
Braids: The Ultimate Summer MVP
If summer hair had a Hall of Fame, braids would own the top spot. They’re practical, cute, and versatile.
Plus, they actually get better as they loosen up (aka perfect for those “I woke up like this” vibes).
1. Classic French Braid
Simple, sleek, and keeps hair out of your face. Perfect for long walks or bike rides where wind is not your friend.
2. Double Dutch Braids
Yes, they give you a sporty-chic look, but the real perk? They stay put all day. You can go from pool to dinner without redoing them.
3. Boho Side Braid
This one screams vacation. Toss in some hair rings or flowers if you’re feeling extra. It’s casual enough for the beach but still cute for dinner.
Pro tip: Pack a few mini elastics. They take zero space in your bag and save you when a braid decides to unravel at the wrong time.
Ponytails: Not Just a Gym Hairstyle
Whoever said ponytails are boring clearly didn’t try them on holiday. With a little twist, they can go from “meh” to “model off-duty.”
4. High Sleek Pony
Polished, bold, and perfect for nights out. Add a scarf around the base for a touch of glam.
5. Messy Beach Pony
This is the “I spent all day at the beach but still look good” ponytail. A little texture spray goes a long way here.
6. Bubble Ponytail
Yes, it takes a few extra elastics, but it looks insanely chic and surprisingly easy to do. Plus, it holds better in humidity than you’d expect.
Buns: Because Sweat Happens
Hot weather and loose hair? Recipe for a sweaty neck situation. Enter buns—the lifesavers of summer.
7. Classic Top Knot
Pull it high, twist, secure, done. No explanation needed.
8. Messy Bun with Scarf
This is where you tie a silk scarf into the bun. Suddenly you look like you belong in a Riviera magazine spread.
9. Low Sleek Bun
Perfect for a more sophisticated vibe. Think date night at a seaside restaurant with candlelight. 🙂
Beach Waves: The Holiday Essential
Nothing says summer like messy, textured beach waves. And no, you don’t need to lug your curling iron on vacation (unless you enjoy extra baggage fees).
10. Natural Saltwater Waves
Literally let the ocean do the work. A quick rinse and some leave-in conditioner afterward, and you’re set.
11. Heatless Overnight Braids
Braid damp hair before bed. Wake up, undo, shake it out—instant waves.
12. Sea Salt Spray Waves
Pack a travel-sized sea salt spray. Scrunch and let it air dry for effortless texture.
Half-Up Styles: The Best of Both Worlds
Can’t decide between up or down? Half-up hairstyles give you the balance.
13. Half-Up Top Knot
Cute, quirky, and keeps just enough hair off your face.
14. Twisted Half-Up
Take two small sections from the front, twist them, and pin. Done in 30 seconds flat.
15. Half-Up with Clips
Traveling somewhere trendy? Chunky claw clips and butterfly clips are back. They’re easy to pack and totally Instagram-worthy.
Protective Styles: For the Long Holiday Wins
If your holiday is more like two weeks than a weekend, protective hairstyles can be your best friend. Low maintenance = more time for fun.
16. Box Braids
Stylish, versatile, and low-effort. Plus, they look amazing with swimsuits and sundresses alike.
17. Twists
They’re lightweight and easier to manage in humid climates.
18. Cornrows
Not only chic, but they also last through swimming, sweating, and everything in between.
Short Hair, Don’t Care
Short-haired crew—you are not left out. In fact, summer hair can be even more fun when it’s cropped.
19. Pixie with Headband
Add a colorful headband and instantly upgrade the look.
20. Wavy Bob
If you’ve got a bob, embrace the messy, textured look. A spritz of salt spray makes it holiday-ready.
Accessories: The Cheat Codes for Easy Summer Hair
Sometimes it’s not about the hairstyle itself but what you add to it.
- Scarves: Tie them into ponytails, buns, or wear as a headband.
- Hats: Bonus points for sun protection. Wide-brimmed hats = chic.
- Clips & Pins: They weigh nothing in your luggage and instantly elevate any look.
Keeping Summer Hair Healthy
Let’s not pretend—between saltwater, chlorine, and blazing sun, summer can be brutal on your hair. Want your styles to actually look good? Take care of the base.
- Hydrate: Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to fight dryness.
- UV Protection: Yes, your hair needs sunscreen too. Look for sprays with UV filters.
- Don’t Overwash: Daily shampooing strips your hair. Opt for dry shampoo on off-days.
- Pack Smart: Travel-sized hair masks are lifesavers after long beach days.
My Go-To Holiday Hair Hack
Okay, here’s my personal secret weapon: the scarf bun combo. I twist my hair into a messy bun, tie a silk scarf around it, and boom—instant chic. It’s taken me from sweaty day hikes to rooftop cocktails without a single redo. Trust me, try it once and you’ll thank me later.
Final Thoughts: Hair Goals Made Easy
So, there you have it—21+ summer holiday hairstyles that actually work when you’re traveling. From braids and buns to beach waves and accessories, you’ve got endless options that are cute, practical, and low-effort.
At the end of the day, summer hair is all about feeling carefree, not overcomplicating things. Whether you’re rocking a messy bun on the beach or a sleek pony at dinner, the goal is the same: look good, feel good, and actually enjoy your holiday.
