24 Beach Hairstyles Updo Ideas That Actually Survive the Ocean Breeze

Let’s be real for a second—beach hair has a mind of its own.

You show up looking like a shampoo commercial, and ten minutes later you’re rocking what can only be described as “seagull-chic.”

Salt, sand, humidity—it’s a whole vibe. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to fight it.

Instead, you can roll with it using some clever updos that not only survive the beach but actually look cute while you sip that iced drink and pretend you’re not burning your shoulders.

I’ve been down this road more times than I can count. I’ve tested messy buns, twisted ponytails, and every braid known to humankind, and I’m here to spill the secrets.

Ready to discover 24 beach hairstyles updo ideas that keep your hair stylish while you lounge, swim, or play beach volleyball like you know what you’re doing? Let’s dive right in.

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1. The Classic Messy Bun

The messy bun never fails. You pile your hair on top of your head, let a few strands fall, and suddenly you look like you didn’t try at all (but secretly you did). The saltwater actually gives your hair better texture, so the messier, the better.

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2. High Ponytail Twist

You know when you want your hair out of your face but not plastered to your neck? A high ponytail twist solves that. Pull your hair up, twist the ponytail into a loose coil, and secure with a claw clip. Done.

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3. Double Braided Buns

This one’s fun and super practical. Split your hair into two pigtails, braid each one, and twist them into buns. Not only does it keep your hair secure in the wind, but it also looks cute when you’re chilling under that beach umbrella.

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4. Low Chignon

Want a slightly classier vibe for that sunset beach dinner? Go for a low chignon. It’s sleek, sophisticated, and pairs perfectly with oversized sunglasses and a flowy dress.

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5. Half-Up Knot

The half-up knot says, “Yes, I came to tan, but I might also jump in the water.” It keeps the top layers of your hair neat while letting the rest flow freely. Easy, casual, and effortlessly beachy.

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6. Braided Crown

Channel your inner mermaid with a braided crown. You braid two sections from the front, wrap them around your head, and pin them at the back. Bonus: it keeps flyaways under control when the wind picks up.

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7. Top Knot with Scarf

Wrap a colorful scarf around your bun, and suddenly your top knot looks intentional instead of rushed. It also doubles as sun protection for your scalp. Win-win.

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8. Side Braid Bun

Ever wondered why side buns feel instantly chic? Twist your hair into a side braid bun, secure it low near your ear, and you’ve got a flirty style that looks great from every angle.

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9. Dutch Braided Ponytail

For those who like their updos to stay put, the Dutch braided ponytail is your best friend. It’s secure, stylish, and doesn’t unravel when you’re splashing in the waves.

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10. Low Bubble Ponytail

The bubble ponytail trend isn’t just for TikTok—it works at the beach too. Pull your hair into a low ponytail, add elastics every few inches, and puff out the sections. Easy and playful.

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11. Loose French Twist

The loose French twist feels a little undone but still put-together. It’s the kind of hairstyle that looks like you just threw it up in two minutes (because you did).

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12. Braided Space Buns

Space buns, but make them beachy. Braid your hair first, then wrap into buns on each side. It’s equal parts cute and practical, and it stays put through the sea breeze.

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13. Low Twisted Ponytail

Take your basic ponytail up a notch. Twist the base, pull it through itself once, and you’ve got a chic low twisted ponytail that looks way fancier than the effort it took.

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14. Fishtail Bun

The fishtail braid screams “effort,” but when you wrap it into a bun, it’s laid-back perfection. Saltwater adds grip, so the braid holds better than it would at home.

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15. The “I Don’t Care” Bun

Yes, that’s the official name (at least in my book). Throw your hair up, secure it with whatever clip or elastic you can find at the bottom of your bag, and roll with it. Somehow, the messier it gets, the cooler it looks.

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16. French Braided Pigtails

Ok, hear me out: French braided pigtails are not just for kids. They’re sporty, adorable, and keep your hair locked down when you’re playing beach games. Plus, you’ll avoid those awkward tangles.

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17. The Claw Clip Twist

Claw clips are back, and thank goodness. Twist your hair, clip it up, and let the ends fan out. It’s one of the easiest ways to do a beach updo without even trying.

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18. Low Knotted Bun

Knot your ponytail into itself, pin it, and you’ve got a simple but chic low knotted bun. It’s low-maintenance and perfect for when you’re hopping from beach to boardwalk.

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19. Side Ponytail with Braid

Remember those 90s side ponytails? This is the glow-up version. Add a small braid along the front and tie the rest into a side ponytail. Suddenly, it’s retro and modern all at once.

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20. Halo Twist

Twist your hair around your head and pin it like a crown. The halo twist is elegant, easy, and keeps every strand secure. No sticky neck, no problem.

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21. Braided Bun with Scrunchie

Scrunchies are still a thing, IMO. Wrap your braided bun with a colorful scrunchie, and it gives your whole look a playful, summer vibe.

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22. Twisted Half-Up Bun

Not sure if you want your hair up or down? The twisted half-up bun is your middle ground. It’s cute, functional, and keeps your hair off your face.

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23. Triple Bun Updo

Why settle for one bun when you can have three? Stack mini buns down the back of your head for a funky, fun style that actually holds up in beach weather.

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24. Low Braided Pony Wrap

Finish strong with the low braided pony wrap. Tie your hair back, braid it, and then wrap a section around the elastic to hide it. It looks polished but still laid-back enough for beach vibes.

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Quick Tips for Keeping Beach Updos in Place

Before you run off to try these, let me drop some practical advice (because IMO, no one tells you this stuff):

• Use hair ties without metal. Metal ones snag in salty, wet hair.
• Bring extra bobby pins. Trust me, they disappear faster than your sunscreen.
• Texture spray works wonders. Salt spray or dry shampoo helps updos hold.
• Don’t overthink it. Beach hair looks best when it’s a little undone.

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Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, beach hairstyles are all about balance. You want something that keeps your hair secure but still feels relaxed and effortless. Some days you’ll go for a sleek low chignon, and other days you’ll rock the “I don’t care” bun with zero shame. Both are valid.

So next time you pack that beach bag, throw in a scrunchie, a claw clip, and maybe a scarf. With these 24 beach hairstyles updo ideas, you’ll be ready for wind, waves, and all the selfies you’ll inevitably take.

Now, let me ask—are you going to be the braided space bun type or the messy bun type this summer? Either way, you’ll look amazing.