We’ve all had that happen—our hair looks good when we leave the house, but after we go swimming, it gets all knotted and messy. And yet, we still hope to look good and put-together even when we’re just jumping in the pool. So how do you get your hair looking great when you’re hanging out by the pool without spending a lot of time or effort?
That’s what this post is all about. I’ve pulled together some new summer hairstyles that fit your daily life, the way your hair is, and even your own style. Whether you’re packing for a tropical vacation, heading to a rooftop pool, or just hopping into the nearest lake, these styles will keep you ready to swim, lounge, and live it up.
Romantic Low Braid with Beachy Volume
There’s just something about a big, loose braid that makes it look really classic and put-together, especially when you start it off with a little bit of volume at the roots and a gentle twist at the top. I love how this style looks good on long hair because it gives it shape and keeps it out of the way, but still looks pretty and casual at the same time. This is one of those hairstyles for long hair that you can wear all day and not have to fix it up.
To keep your hair looking neat after swimming, I’d recommend putting in a leave-in cream like Bumble and Bumble’s Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer before you braid it. It keeps your braid protected from the sun, makes it easier to brush out, and leaves it shiny when it dries. If your ends get dry really fast, try running a bit of product through them before you style your hair.
I usually go for hair styles that keep my hair away from my face but still look a bit messy and relaxed, like I didn’t spend too much time on it. This braid does exactly that. Plus, it goes from swimming into the pool to enjoying some tacos at the beach bar without missing a step.
What I also appreciate? It’s surprisingly easy to pull together. Just a few elastics and a little pull to make the braids puffier, and the look instantly looks more put-together. Even if your hair is wet and curly, you can still use this trick to help keep your hair in place.
Poolside Top Knot with Barely-There Layers
This clean top knot is perfect for me when I’m swimming laps because it keeps my hair out of the way and stops it from getting in my face. What makes it feel modern is how it’s styled with a lot of lift at the top and a little softness around the back and sides. It leaves your neck free and is a popular style for people with medium or short hair that has layers in it.
For this kind of knot to stay in place after I’ve shot it with a cannonball, I use a non-slip elastic and a few bobby pins that don’t have any shine on them. A spritz of OUAI Texturizing Hair Spray gives your hair a little bit of hold without making it stiff or sticky. You don’t want your strands hardening like seaweed—trust me.
It reminds me of every early-morning swim I’ve done while I was on vacation. Quick twist, pull on the elastic, and I’m ready to go out the door feeling good. It’s strong enough to help you during water workouts, but also looks nice and fresh when you use it for making smoothies in the morning.
You can also smooth out a few strands and style it in a neater way if you want it to look more put-together. But if you want something easy to wear and won’t get tangled in the summer heat? This is a winner.
French Twist Bun with Leopard Claw Clip
This twist-bun-meets-clip combo gives old-school elegance a beachy spin. I like how it still keeps things neat and organized, but the big printed claw makes it feel fresh and up-to-date. It works really well on long and medium hair, giving you a neat and styled look without you having to use any heat. Plus, clips are getting really popular again this summer, and I’m not complaining about it.
If your hair gets frizzy when it comes in contact with saltwater or chlorine, spritz a bit of Living Proof No Frizz Humidity Shield on your hair before you put it up. It helps close up the cuticle and stops your hair from getting frizzy after you take a dip.
I personally like clothes that are easy to wear and don’t need much fixing up throughout the day. This one stays closed no matter if I put a hat on or lay it out on a towel. It’s practical, but still looks good enough to wear hoop earrings or a scarf while you’re out and about.
It’s also a protective choice if you’re managing natural hair—the twist keeps ends tucked and safe while you’re enjoying sun and water. Who says practical can’t be pretty?
Classic Low Bun with Face-Framing Layers
Some days, I want sleek but not severe. This style threads that needle perfectly. It’s a simple low bun with some soft layers around the face, making it look both pretty and low-key at the same time. Ideal for swimming hairstyles for medium hair, especially when you want something that dries quickly and doesn’t get all messed up after you get out of the water.
If you color your hair like I do, you need to make sure you drink plenty of water after you swim. I swear by K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask because it helps my hair feel so much better after spending a lot of time in the sun. It works great on hair that feels dry and brittle after spending time in a pool or hot tub.
The elegance of this style makes it one of my favorite go-tos for poolside events that lean a little upscale—maybe you’re hitting a rooftop gathering or a resort dinner. Just twist, pin, and you’re effortlessly styled.
Bonus? The bun base is really strong and can work well with both wet and dry curly hair, making it a great option for a swimming hairstyle that works for all kinds of curls.
Thick Boho Braid for Dark, Air-Dried Hair
When your natural black or dark brown hair dries naturally, it turns really soft and a thick braid like this is a great way to show it off. It’s safe, keeps your hair in place, and stays looking good even after a day out in the water or sun. For swimming hairstyles for black women, this braid is practical, looks good, and is really easy to wear.
If you’re wearing your hair naturally, I suggest using a lightweight styling cream like Camille Rose Almond Jai Twisting Butter to help keep your hair looking good. It gives you just the right amount of grip, so your braid stays neat and soft.
This style has been my vacation staple since forever. It’s easy to use, helps tame my hair even when it’s a bit frizzy, and doesn’t make my ends dry or damaged. It also looks great under a wide-brim sunhat.
Whether you’re heading to the beach, planning a swim class, or just want a long hair braids style that feels fresh—this is one to keep in rotation.
Messy Bun with Butterfly Clip Charm
I’ve always liked styles that are easy to wear but still have a little bit of fun to them. This messy bun, held together by a pastel butterfly clip, looks relaxed but still put-together at the same time. The way it lets a few strands escape gives it a bit of movement, which makes it look really cute when you’re swimming or just out and about. It keeps hair off my shoulders so I don’t get too hot or bothered when it’s really muggy outside.
When I wear styles like this at the pool, I like to spray my hair with IGK Good Behavior Spirulina Protective Spray beforehand, because it keeps my hair from getting frizzy and helps it stay soft and moveable, even when it’s humid outside. Clips like this help stop your goggles from breaking because the elastic doesn’t get stretched out as much after you swim for a while.
I honestly think butterfly clips are making a comeback because they not only keep your hair in place, but they also make your look more fun and interesting. It makes me feel pulled together even if I’ve just been lying around in the sun for an hour, not really getting dressed yet.
If you’re someone who loves easy, nostalgic accessories that still feel grown-up, this one’s your go-to. Perfect for medium hair that you want to keep easy and simple.
Double Dutch Braids for Active Days
Nothing holds like a double braid. When I know I’m going to be swimming all day, jumping in and out of the water, and probably playing some beach volleyball too, this is the suit I like to wear. These long hair braids stay close to the head, are pulled tight so they won’t come loose, and are perfect for swimmers who want to keep their hair out of the way.
Before I braid, I usually put a little Pattern Beauty Styling Cream in my hair, especially if it’s wavy or a bit textured. It keeps everything in place and makes sure each braid stays looking neat and tidy, even when it gets hot outside.
These braids make me feel confident. They’re really good at keeping your cables from getting tangled and they just feel really sturdy. Whether you wear them with a swimsuit or a crop top and sarong, they give off a really summery and relaxed vibe.
For girls with natural hair or curly hair, this style is really easy to do and you can quickly spruce it up by spraying in some leave-in mist. Plus, once you undo them later? Beach waves, baby.
Scrunchie Bun with Retro Flair
I didn’t think I’d like the scrunchie making a comeback, but now I’m really into them and think they’re a great style choice. This high bun, finished off with a bright pink polka-dot scrunchie, will really make your swimsuit look even better. It’s one of those hairstyles you can do with wet hair and it looks great for medium or even thick curly hair.
I like to loosen the bun and pin it in place before putting the scrunchie over it, so it stays in but doesn’t hurt my hair. Amika’s Perk Up Dry Shampoo adds volume if your roots are flat post-swim.
It’s a little nod to the ’90s, but not in a cheesy way. I really like wearing this bun because it looks good all day, whether I’m out walking on the beach in the morning or enjoying drinks with friends in the evening.
Also—pro tip—scrunchies are gentler on color-treated strands. If you want to keep your hair looking shiny this summer, you should try to avoid breaking it, and this is one way to help do that.
Protective Scarf Braid for Sun Safety
This look is definitely one of my go-to outfits for summer. A long, full braid covered up with a scarf at the top of your head not only keeps your hair safe, but also helps you stay cooler in the sun. The scarf helps protect your head from the sun, and the braid keeps your hair in place, so it’s a great way to keep your hair out of your face when you’re swimming or doing any activity outside.
I always use a little bit of SheaMoisture Leave-In Conditioner Spray before I style my hair, because it makes my hair softer, shinier, and helps protect it from the sun. The scarf helps stop the crown from rubbing against my head and gives the whole look a fun, retro feel I really like.
There’s something about this style that helps me feel calm and in charge, even when things get a bit crazy during the day. And it looks really nice with a bandeau top or a beach robe on.
This is a simple swimming hairstyle for long hair that’s easy to do, but it still looks put-together. Win-win.
Wet-Look Waves for Glam Pool Days
For the days when I just want to relax with a drink and take some pictures, these easy waves look great. Styled with a center part and looking shiny, this look is all about feeling good about yourself. It works great for both natural black hair and hair that has been chemically treated, giving you a nice, soft wave without using any heat.
To get that mirror-like finish, I suggest using Mielle Organics Coil Sculpting Custard or Eco Style Gel Olive Oil. Just work a little bit of the product through your damp hair and scrunch it up. It holds the look without leaving hair crunchy.
This is one of my favorite swimming hairstyles for curly hair girls because it keeps your curls looking good even after you get out of the water. You can go from pool to party without doing any hair or makeup, which is just what summer glam should be all about.
I also like that this outfit is really simple and easy to put together, but it still makes a strong style statement. Minimal effort, maximum energy.
Loose Half-Up Waves with Floral Clip
Sometimes, less really is more. A half-up style with waves and a simple flower clip gives off a sweet and effortless look that feels perfect for a beach day. This look is dreamy, casual, and great for long hair that you don’t want to put into a tight ponytail, but still want to look put together. It lets you soak up the breeze without everything blowing in your face—a small luxury when you’re going swimming at a quiet shore.
To keep the texture intact throughout the day, I like adding Not Your Mother’s Sea Salt Spray—it holds the wave and gives that just-out-of-the-ocean finish even if your hair didn’t get wet. Clips like this can make you feel warm and happy without you having to try too hard.
I go for this style when I want to look and feel feminine but still want to be comfortable enough to play sports or go for a walk by the beach. It’s easy, simple, and doesn’t make me worry about what I’m doing with my hair.
Best part? It’s incredibly easy to do—even on damp strands. Just twist two front sections, clip, and go.
Big Natural Volume for Statement Texture
Wearing your natural hair the way it grows out of your head is a strong look, and I think it’s awesome. This free, easy-going style lets black hair show off its natural texture, letting each curl bask in the sun and the salty air without any changes. It’s one of the best swimming hairstyles for black women because it looks great, lets your hair breathe, and is really easy to do.
To keep my curls looking good while I’m at the beach, I make sure to use Melanin Haircare Multi-Use Leave-In Conditioner regularly. It keeps hair moisturized, doesn’t make it oily, and helps your curls look neat while also fighting frizz from the humidity.
This look makes me think that summer is the perfect time to let your hair have fun and show off, without worrying about what others might think. There’s something really special about how a big piece of fabric can move in the wind and catch the sun in all its folds.
If you’ve been thinking about growing out your hair and letting it go natural, now is the time to do it. This style is simple, protective, and full of personality.
Double Braided Crown into Low Bun
For days when I want to look put-together but still feel comfortable at the beach, I like to do a simple double-braided crown that ends in a low bun at the back of my head. It keeps your head cool, stays put when you’re swimming, and looks great with sunglasses and some earrings. This is one of those swimming hairstyles for medium hair that looks nice and put-together, but isn’t too fussy or hard to do.
Before braiding, I put a little bit of Bread Beauty Supply Hair Cream in my hair. It helps keep my hair in place without making it feel heavy. It also gives a nice shine that lasts all day, even after you spend time at the beach.
What I love is that this hairstyle stays looking the same all day long, no matter what I do. I can switch from reading a book to swimming in the sea, and it feels like nothing has changed.
And honestly? It makes me feel stylish, like a ballerina who’s just taking a break by the beach.
Flower-Adorned Beachside Braid
This side braid decorated with flowers is one of those styles that just makes me feel like I’m on a vacation in a warm, sunny place. Long, full, and secure, it works great for keeping long hair or layered styles out of the way while you’re swimming and helps you look good at the same time. Plus, the flowers make it feel really summery, soft, romantic, and perfect for Instagram.
To help your braid stay put after swimming, try putting some Sun Bum Revitalizing 3-in-1 Leave-In Conditioner on your hair before you style it—it helps make your hair softer, easier to comb, and leaves a nice smell behind.
This braid makes me feel like I’m right in the middle of a beautiful and peaceful picture. It’s a mix of magic and real-life, and it’s my favorite look when I want to look nice but don’t want to spend extra time getting ready.
It’s also a good style to wear if you’re going to be outside a lot, because your hair is covered and protected from the sun, wind, and anything else that might dry it out.
Loose Glam Waves for Sunset Walks
Wavy, flowing, and with lots of bounce, this beachy long hair style is perfect for a relaxed and carefree afternoon. It’s one of those swimming hairstyles that may not be your first choice for going underwater, but it’s everything for post-swim lounging, sandy strolls, and golden-hour selfies. It gives you a mature mermaid vibe, and I really like it.
To keep my curls defined without making them feel stiff, I’ll usually put on Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Curl Smoothie after I get out of the pool and then let them dry naturally.
This look makes me feel like I’m just going with the flow and still look great. It moves with the wind and feels like a soft layer around your shoulders, giving you the right amount of chill and a bit of style at the same time.
It also works really well on black hair that’s in a looser texture or when you want to add some extra volume to your twist-outs after you’ve brushed them. The more undone, the better.
Neat Twin Braids with Sleek Center Part
This style is clean, powerful, and classic. The twin braids with a middle part are a great way to keep your long hair out of your face while you swim, since they stay put even when waves and wind come your way. It’s nice and comfortable, but not too loose, and the style gives me a feeling that I could easily go from hanging out on the beach to meeting friends for drinks later.
For an extra neat look, I spray a bit of Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray on damp hair before I part it. It helps keep my hair in place and stops the flyaways from showing up, so my braids look nice and neat all day, even if I go swimming a few times.
What I love about this style is that it gives me a clear way to organize my thoughts, but still feels relaxed and easy to follow. It’s great for people who want to keep their hair out of their face while swimming, and especially helpful for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time fixing their hair after getting out of the pool.
And honestly? It makes me feel good and safe, even if my towel gets taken by the wind.
High Sleek Pony with Braided Crown Detail
For a bold and eye-catching summer look, I usually go for a hairstyle that’s pulled back and high. This ponytail with a few tiny braids added to the front looks cool and put-together at the same time. It’s a great style for long hair, keeping it out of the way but still looking put-together and cute.
To get that neat look, I always use Göt2b Ultra Glued Styling Gel on my hairline and then spray a bit of holding spray to keep things shiny. It stays on for the whole day and doesn’t come off, even if you’re out in the sun.
This look turns heads. It gives you that celebrity look even when you’re just getting a drink at the beach bar. Plus, the braids add texture without stealing the spotlight.
It’s also a really good style to wear if you want to go from relaxing by the pool to going out in the evening. Sleek, easy, and confidently summer.
French Twist Bun with Clear Claw Clip
Simple doesn’t mean boring. This simple French twist held together with a clear clip gives off a relaxed and chic look that’s perfect for a day at the beach. It’s a great choice for people who have medium or long hair and want to keep their hair off their shoulders without feeling any discomfort or tightness on their head.
Before twisting it up, I spray some Briogeo Farewell Frizz Rosarco Milk Leave-In Conditioning Spray on my hair to help fight the frizz that comes from being in salty beach air. Then, just a few spins and clip—it’s done.
This style makes me feel like I’m walking down a beach in a cool novel, barefoot in the sand, reading a book while sipping on a cold drink.
It’s one of my favorite ways to keep my hair out of my face while swimming, and it’s really simple to fix up again if it gets messy. Just unclip, retwist, and you’re back to golden-hour perfection.
Sharp Chin-Length Bob with Bangs
This short, simple bob with straight bangs is a cool and stylish look for swimming, especially if you want something that’s easy to manage and looks up-to-date. The sharp cut around the face looks great and makes you feel edgy without having to tie the hair back. Perfect for beach babes who want to look stylish and put together, no matter how high the waves get.
To keep this shape looking neat after swimming, I just add a little bit of Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother to the ends. It tames without weighing anything down.
There’s something about getting your hair cut this way that makes you feel a bit more confident. It’s a great style that can look cool and stylish, whether you slick it back or leave it out to frame your face after you’ve dried off your hair.
If you’re thinking about cutting your hair shorter this summer, now might be the perfect time to do it. Especially if you’re looking for something easy to take care of but still wants to make a statement.
Braided Crown into Voluminous Ponytail
This hybrid style merges control with volume. The two braids going across the top of the head join together and then end up in a high ponytail, which looks really nice and pulls everything together. It’s practical for people with curly or long hair because it gives you a firm hold and keeps your hair looking bouncy as you move around in the water.
For the curls or waves in the ponytail, I just use my fingers to twist a few strands and then rub in some Curl Milk to make them pop up again after the water makes them go flat.
I love this because it keeps my things safe, but it’s still really fun to use at the pool or beach with the family. The ponytail lets you move your hair around, and the braids help hold it in place, so you get the best of both worlds.
Plus, the simple braid crown gives this style a bit of extra style without you having to go to a salon.
Top Knot with Statement Silk Scarf
I love putting my hair up in a high bun and tying a scarf around it because it makes a plain look feel more stylish and put together. This top knot, tied up with a striped silk scarf, looks really nice and gives off a retro, romantic, and cute vibe for any day by the water. Perfect for medium hair that you want to keep out of your face while swimming and keep safe from the sun.
I always use a bit of Verb Ghost Oil on my bun before I go out to help get rid of frizz and make my hair look shiny. Then I tie the scarf once and leave the ends hanging loose, which gives it a nice touch of movement and style.
This look makes me feel put together without having to work too hard. Whether I’m wearing a linen dress or a bright bikini, the scarf just makes the whole outfit look put together.
And it doubles as sun protection for my scalp—a hidden perk I didn’t appreciate until I forgot it one day and paid the price!
