Stay Stylish: Swimming Hairstyles for Summer 2025 – Cute, Tangle-Free Looks for Every Hair Type

Summer 2025 is telling us that we need hair that stays cute, heat-resistant and tangle-free, so it can go from the pool to the patio without needing to be redone. If you’ve ever struggled to get your hair into a ponytail before swimming or seen a nicely styled bun come apart quickly, I understand. This is why I’ve found these swimming hairstyles that are both cute and offer some protection. From easy braids to bold space buns, let’s explore styles that are both fun for a trip and cool enough for anyone. Which one are you rocking first?

Relaxed Side Fishtail for Easygoing Pool Days

This loose side fishtail braid isn’t just photogenic—it’s practical. Because the braid is soft and thick, it keeps your hair in place without pulling or tightening your scalp. Having the side pieces in place helps keep your neck comfortable and gives off a lovely mermaid-style look. It shows that you didn’t put much effort in, but you’re still totally organized.

If you’re planning to spend a lot of time in the sun or swimming, use a little leave-in conditioner on your braid. I’ve found that OUAI’s Leave-In Conditioner is light, helps with tangles and makes your hair smell like you’re on a trip. A clear elastic at the end seals the deal.

Whenever I know I’ll be in and out of the water all day, this is the style I choose to look intentional. It is solid, but the gentle messiness makes it easy to enjoy. Honestly? Add a sunhat and you’ve got a vibe.

Boxer Braids Meet Double Buns

If you want a hairstyle that goes with any swimsuit, try braided boxers and double buns. This style is both secure, stylish and sporty, so it won’t move during any type of swimming. Anyone who loves competitive swimming or water sports and still wants to have fun will find this a dream choice. This method works great for curly hair and 4c hair as long as you take a little time to prepare.

A strong-hold gel is needed to keep your hair in place. I suggest using Eco Style Olive Oil Gel because it helps your hair hold shape without making it hard. Before you braid, use a rat-tail comb to clean and even the sections of your hair.

I love how youthful and bold this one feels. It’s a mix of ‘90s rave and everyday fashion and it looks just as stylish with a rashguard as with a string bikini. Bonus? It also helps shield your hair from the sun’s rays.

Playful Bubble Braids with Rainbow Bands

Looking for something playful, bold, and totally summer? These bubble braids with colorful elastics are a joy to see on anyone. The sections don’t pull tightly, so they’re comfortable for long hair kids or adults who want to have fun with their hair. Best part? Zero braiding skills required.

To make sure the bubbles stay separated, spray a bit of water on top before adding each band and then gently stretch them out. If you have curly hair and want your style to last, try adding some Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Sculpting Gel.

It’s perfect for when you want your hair to be the main focus of your look. It gives off a beachy Barbie look, but it’s actually very simple and useful. And if you’re headed to a beach event or vacation with friends? All eyes will be on you, I promise.

Classic Chignon with a Floral Pop

There’s something classic about a low chignon and adding a bright flower makes it even more special. The style is romantic and also secure enough that you can swim with it if it’s pinned in place. It’s a stylish option for medium or longer hair and looks especially nice at beach weddings or after a swim at a resort.

I secure my style by using bobby pins with rubber tips and finish it off with Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Medium. Place the flower under the twist, not on top, because it will hold better.

I wear this style when I want to feel a bit more mature while on holiday. It’s classic but not boring. In fact, it feels like a sunset cocktail moment, even if you’re just drinking a pineapple smoothie.

Starfish Clip & Half-Up Hair

A half-up look held in place with a starfish pin is perfect for relaxing days on the beach. The clip gives your face a border, leaving your hair loose and adding a touch of charm. Works well for swimming hairstyles black natural hair when stretched or blown out, as well as for long hair that needs little upkeep.

It works well when your hair is dry and salty, as it’s very easy to use. I normally use a beach spray such as Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray, to get that relaxed look. Let the sun do the rest.

What I enjoy most is that it’s both relaxed and put together. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being present. Whether you’re reading on the towel or chasing waves, this style works without demanding too much.

Soft Waves & Wide-Brim Glam

If you’re spending a day at the beach and want your hair to flow with the wind, try brushing out your waves and wearing a protective hat. This look is perfect for medium hair or long hair that’s naturally wavy or curled with a heatless method. The hat’s wide brim covers your face and keeps you safe from the sun, making you look great.

Most of the time, I use a light mousse for curls such as Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk, to add texture without making my hair stiff. Then just let the sun do the drying. A wide-tooth comb helps prevent tangles without making your hair straight.

This look means, “I’m ready to get some sun, drink something fruity and snap a lot of photos.” It isn’t a typical swimming style, but it’s perfect for taking you from the beach to brunch.

Top Knot Tamer

If you prefer easy swimming hairstyles, this high top knot is your best choice. It’s easy to do, secure and won’t come undone, so it’s perfect for working out or just chilling. It also does a great job of keeping swimming hairstyles for short and medium hair looking neat.

I prefer to use Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Edge Control to make my hair stay in place. It keeps your hair moisturized and protected, so it’s ideal if your ends have been damaged by chlorine or salt.

I put on this style when I want to focus on swimming or when I’m running after someone playing beach volleyball. Simple. Clean. Stress-free. It’s like the little black dress of swimming hairstyles.

Defined Braids for Natural Texture

In addition to looking nice, braids like these are very protective for black natural hair or 4c hair exposed to sun and salt. These precise plaits are ideal for swimming hairstyles for black natural hair, as they won’t budge during any splash, dive or cannonball.

I use the Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner by Mielle to prepare and then apply jojoba oil to keep my hair moisturized. It helps my scalp stay calm and my ends are still happy even after I’ve been swimming.

This is the look I always circle back to. It’s satisfying to be able to wear texture and still keep the look easy to manage. Ursula Stephen is one of many stylists who call braids a “freedom style” for the summer and I totally agree.

Elegant Dutch Braided Bun

A braided crown that fits perfectly into a bun? That’s what we’re looking at here. Chef’s kiss. It looks charming and is also useful for swimming, so it’s great for weddings, parties or going to the beach. This style is the perfect way to keep your long hair tidy and looking great in the water.

I add Amika’s Perk Up Dry Shampoo to my hair for extra grip before braiding. It holds your hair in place and gives it a matte finish that’s still water-friendly.

I choose this one when I want to look elegant but still be protected from the sun all day. It’s a braid, it’s a bun and it’s so beautiful that it won’t come apart when you get wet.

Blonde Double Dutch for Active Days

These two Dutch braids scream active beach babe. They’re strong, reliable and comfortable for paddleboarding, cliff-diving or just enjoying the water. Great for making long braids that should not come apart for a long time. And let’s be honest—they’re a competitive swimmer’s dream.

Before braiding, use Got2b Ultra Glued Invincible Styling Gel for a slick back, since it won’t come off when you sweat or get wet. Just a few bobby pins at the bottom can keep the ends in place without using elastics.

This is my outfit when I want to move gracefully and look as if I’m on the runway. It’s bold and effortless at the same time. If you’re looking for a simple way to style swimming hairstyles for long hair, this is the one for you.

Serene High Knot with Soft Volume

There are days when all we need is a little peace and this pretty high knot is just what we want. It’s not a ballerina bun; it’s looser, more organic, and perfectly suited for tranquil ocean moments. If you have long or medium hair and want a simple yet considered look in the water, these are for you.

I find that using Bumble and Bumble’s Invisible Oil Primer before twisting my hair helps to smooth it, protect from the sun and remove tangles without making my hair heavy. A silk scrunchie makes it feel extra luxe.

This style makes me feel like I’m starting over. Whether you’re meditating by the shore or just escaping the chaos, it’s the one I choose when I need a beach day to feel like therapy.

Space Buns with Texture Play

The half-up space buns mixed with long, textured lengths? Total festival-meets-seaside chic. This method looks great on long hair, curly hair or hair that is naturally wavy. It provides a structured look around the face and lots of movement in the back.

A little spray of sea salt—like Ouai Wave Spray—will give your hair extra body and grip before you twist your buns. Add bobby pins underneath to secure without tugging.

Whenever I want a simple, playful outfit, I go for this. It’s great for making frizzy or curly hair look better after swimming, without having to style it again.

Protective Cornrows for Pool Power

It’s a style that works for swimming as well as for glamorous events. Black natural hair lovers say these cornrows with an original parting are the best hairstyles for swimming. Water-resistant, tangle free, and totally statement-making.

I prep the scalp with Camille Rose’s Herbal Tea Seal & Soften before braiding—it keeps everything hydrated and flake-free under the sun. Use a satin scarf to wrap it at night for the coat to last for several days.

This style is one of the most dependable for protecting your hair and I think so too. It also just feels powerful. Like, yes—I came to swim and serve a look.

Wind-Swept Top Knot with Attitude

I’m in love with how this top knot is messy yet still looks iconic. Whether you have black, medium or long hair, this style is sure to add some personality. It’s carefree, chic, and doesn’t take itself too seriously.

I often turn my head upside down, comb the hair into a bun with my fingers and hold it in place with a U-pin or soft elastic. Don’t fight the flyaways—they’re what make it feel cool.

Adding bold red lipstick or gold hoops will give your outfit a new level of style. This is a swimming hairstyle that short-haired people can easily do and still make it look like they planned it.

Butterfly Half-Up with Soft Waves

Finish your look with a half-up wave—it’s soft, looks great and can be used on any hair length. The fullness at the crown flatters round or heart-shaped faces and the butterfly clip? That’s the cherry on top.

After swimming, I spray the Kristin Ess Leave-In Conditioner and scrunch from the bottom. The waves bounce back and the scent is heavenly.

You’ll love this one for a laid-back beach date or a leisurely morning on your trip. It’s not too heavy, but it works well—exactly what summer dreams are about.

Beaded Boho Strands

There’s a special feeling when your hair expresses your style and these long, curly strands matched with colorful beads? That’s a full conversation. If you have curly hair, you’ll find that this style is light, artistic and perfect for swimming in. They’re not only pretty, but they also make it easy to create face-framing tendrils.

I use SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie to help my curls look good after swimming. Bonus: it smells like a summer cocktail.

It’s a style that shows you’re ready to have a good time. A good fit for kids with long hair, people who love to be creative or anyone who wants to add a bit of fun to their sun protection.

Classic Double Braids, No Notes

Let’s talk swimming hairstyles easy: the double braid. Clean, secure, timeless. While keeping all the strands in place, this style allows you to enjoy the length and depth of your hair. It’s ideal for swimming with long hair and perfect for anyone spending a whole day at the beach.

I spray each part of my hair with water and argan oil before braiding. It helps to reduce frizz and makes untangling your hair easier. I also secure the ends using small, clear elastics that won’t break in water or wind.

I turn to these braids when I want a look that is both strong, simple and looks great. They’re not just functional—they’re iconic.

Boxer Braid Meets Mermaid Energy

This updated boxer braid style with mini woven sections adds something special to swimming hairstyles. It’s as if someone added mermaid DNA to a braid. Perfect for those with black women’s hair, medium hair and thick textures that need a little help staying in place.

I apply Cantu’s Moisturizing Curl Activator to my hair before braiding to help with hydration and detangling. As a result, your hair is less likely to break and stays hydrated after you finish braiding.

This braid is fun, daring and you can make it yourself once you learn how to section your hair. It doesn’t want to blend in and that’s the whole idea.

French Braid with a Breezy Twist

Because of its size, a French braid adds softness and a flowing look to any long hair style. It combines style and safety, allowing you to swim freely while you still look great from any direction.

I use a little bit of Paul Mitchell’s Super Skinny Serum to brush the knots out of my hair before starting. After you tie your braid, try pulling on each small loop to make it look and feel fuller.

I’d go for this look whenever I was hanging out on a boat or having dinner near the water. You get the look you want without having to worry about anything.

Knotted Half-Up for Soft Glam

The last style we’ll show is this half-up knot with waves—a pretty, soft idea for medium hair or curly hair when swimming. If you’re looking for a polished look but still want a bit of the beach, this is perfect for you, no matter how your hair is styled.

I spray the lower half with a detangling spray and use a curling wand on dry parts if I think it’s necessary. It only takes a minute to tie the knot and it stays in place with just one bobby pin.

It’s soft. It’s romantic. It’s a great way to finish your summer style collection.