20 Cute Beach Hairstyles Updo Ideas You’ll Want to Try

Let’s be honest: beach days are magical, but beach hair? Not so much.

Between the salty air, the wind that has zero chill, and the fact that sand somehow sneaks into every part of your life, your hair usually ends up looking like you got into a fight with a seagull. And lost.

But don’t worry—there’s hope. Updos are the ultimate beach hair hack. They keep your hair off your face, look effortlessly chic, and save you from the dreaded “mermaid nest” situation by the end of the day.

I’ve pulled together 20 cute beach hairstyles updo ideas that are easy, stylish, and actually hold up against sun, sweat, and surf.

Whether you’re the messy bun type, a braid lover, or someone who just wants their hair to stay put without looking like a 2005 prom updo disaster, I’ve got you covered.

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1. The Classic Messy Bun

You can’t go wrong with a messy bun. Toss your hair up, twist, secure with a scrunchie, and boom—instant cute. The salty air even helps with the texture, so it looks more “effortless chic” than “I gave up.”

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2. Braided Crown Updo

Ever wanted to feel like a beach goddess? A braided crown is your answer. Wrap two braids around the top of your head and pin them. It keeps hair out of your face and doubles as an instant accessory.

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3. Twisted Low Bun

This one is super simple but looks like you tried. Twist two sections of hair from either side, meet them at the back, and pin them into a low bun. It works with wet hair, which is a win if you just hopped out of the ocean.

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4. Double Dutch Braided Buns

Think space buns but beachy. Part your hair down the middle, Dutch braid each side, and secure into buns. They’re playful, secure, and perfect if you plan on being active—volleyball, surfing, or just chasing after kids who are eating sand.

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5. Loose Top Knot with Scarf

Add a patterned scarf to a simple top knot, and you instantly look like you’re on a yacht (even if you’re actually on a crowded public beach). The scarf also keeps flyaways under control when the wind kicks up.

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6. French Braid Into Bun

Start with a French braid down the back or side of your head, and finish with a bun at the nape of your neck. It keeps your hair sleek and adds that extra “oh wow, she really did something” effect.

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7. Bubble Pony Updo

If a plain ponytail feels too boring, the bubble pony is your upgrade. Tie your hair into sections down the length with elastics, then twist the end into a bun. It’s secure, playful, and different without being high-maintenance.

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8. Side Swept Low Bun

This one screams “romantic beach date.” Sweep your hair to one side, twist into a low bun, and leave a few strands loose around your face. Bonus: it works great for beach weddings too.

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9. Braided Top Knot

Start with a high pony, braid it, and then wrap it into a bun. It gives the classic top knot more grip (and more personality). Saltwater waves underneath? Even better.

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10. Fishtail Bun

The fishtail braid looks way harder than it is. Once you braid, coil it into a bun and pin. It’s boho, beachy, and totally Instagram-worthy.

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11. Low Rolled Updo

Roll sections of your hair into a tucked style at the nape of your neck. This is one of those “looks fancy but takes two minutes” hairstyles. Pair with sunglasses, and you’ll feel like you’re in a resort ad.

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12. Mini Braided Bun Accents

Here’s a fun twist—literally. Make small braids around your head and twist them into mini buns. You can do just two for a statement look or several for a playful vibe.

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13. Half-Up Twisted Bun

Not sure if you want your hair up or down? Do both. Pull the top half into a twisted bun and leave the rest loose. It looks relaxed while still keeping hair out of your face.

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14. Rope Braid Bun

Twist two strands into a rope braid, coil them into a bun, and secure. It’s sleek, secure, and looks way fancier than it actually is. Honestly, it’s my go-to when I need something quick but cute.

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15. Boho Scarf Wrap Bun

Instead of just tying a scarf around your bun, wrap it through your hair as you twist. It adds texture, color, and a boho vibe that’s basically made for beach festivals.

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16. French Twist With a Beachy Twist

Pun intended. Do a classic French twist, but let some pieces fall out for that undone, salty finish. It’s elegant without being stiff—think “French chic meets surfer girl.”

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17. Twisted Space Buns

Want something playful? Twist two buns on top of your head. Leave a few tendrils loose for a softer, beachier look. It’s fun without looking like you’re headed to Comic-Con (unless that’s the vibe, then go for it).

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18. Bun with Seashell Clips

Clip in a few seashell or pearl barrettes around a low bun, and suddenly you’re giving full mermaid energy. It’s simple but instantly levels up a basic style.

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19. Dutch Braid Halo Bun

Start with Dutch braids circling your head, then tuck them into a bun at the back. It’s a mix of sporty and pretty—perfect for keeping hair secure on windy days.

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20. Wet Hair Sleek Bun

Fresh out of the water? Don’t fight the wet hair look. Slick it back into a sleek low bun, add a little leave-in conditioner for shine, and call it intentional. Trust me, it beats pretending you didn’t just cannonball.

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Beach Updo Survival Tips

Cute hairstyles are one thing, but keeping them intact at the beach? That’s the real challenge. Here are a few pro tips to make sure your updo lasts longer than your sunscreen reapplication.

• Use the right hair ties: Skip the thin elastics. Go for spiral ties or scrunchies that don’t snap or tangle.
• Pack extra bobby pins: Wind and water will test your patience, so stash a few in your beach bag.
• Embrace texture: Saltwater makes hair grippy. Use it to your advantage for braids and buns.
• Bring a scarf or bandana: Not only does it look cute, but it also doubles as damage control if your hair starts revolting.
• Don’t overthink it: Messy looks better at the beach. Seriously, no one is judging your flyaways.

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Why Updos Work So Well for the Beach

Ever notice how beach photos always look better when your hair is up? That’s not just because of the wind. Updos:

• Keep you cooler by lifting hair off your neck.
• Prevent tangles that make you question your life choices when you try to brush later.
• Look intentional, even when they’re super simple.

Honestly, they’re the perfect mix of style and practicality. Who doesn’t want that?

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Final Thoughts

There you have it—20 cute beach hairstyles updo ideas that prove you don’t need a pro stylist to look amazing by the ocean. From the classic messy bun to boho scarf wraps and fishtail buns, these styles are practical, easy, and guaranteed to survive a windy beach day.

Personally, I rotate between the braided crown and the scarf top knot depending on whether I want “beach goddess” or “lazy but cute” vibes. Either way, the goal is simple: look good, stay comfortable, and avoid turning your hair into a seagull nest.

So next time you’re packing for a beach day, don’t stress about your hair. Just pick one of these updos, toss some pins and a scrunchie in your bag, and you’re good to go.