Summer isn’t just about sunny beaches, crystal-clear pools, and tropical vacations—it’s also about feeling confident and comfortable in your look. If you love swimming, whether it’s at the beach, in a resort pool, or during a lakeside getaway, you know how important it is to have a hairstyle that can withstand water, wind, and heat—while still looking amazing in photos.
In 2025, the focus is on low-maintenance, style-forward swimming hairstyles that combine practicality with trend-driven aesthetics. The right hairstyle will:
- Keep your hair secure while swimming
- Protect it from tangles and sun damage
- Transition effortlessly from poolside lounging to dinner
- Complement your face shape, outfit, and accessories
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore 30 swimming hairstyles for summer 2025, grouped into five easy-to-browse categories:
- Braided Styles – Secure and stylish for long swims
- Ponytails & Puffs – Sleek or voluminous options for quick fixes
- Buns & Updos – Elegant and practical in humid weather
- Loose Waves & Wet Looks – Glamorous yet swim-friendly
- Accessorized Hairstyles – Fun, colorful, and Instagram-ready
Category 1: Braided Styles for Swimming
Braids are a timeless choice for swimming—they keep hair neat, prevent tangles, and can be styled in endless variations.
1. Classic French Braid
Best For: Medium to long hair, straight or wavy
Why It Works: Keeps hair flat and secure against your head, reducing drag in water.
How to Style:
- Part hair at the crown.
- Braid tightly, pulling in strands as you move downward.
- Secure with a waterproof hair tie.
Pro Tip: Add a light leave-in conditioner before braiding to protect hair from chlorine and saltwater.
2. Double Dutch Braids
Best For: Active swimmers, sporty looks
Why It Works: Splits hair into two sections for maximum hold and style symmetry.
How to Style:
- Divide hair into two equal halves.
- Use the Dutch braiding technique (braid under, not over).
- Tie with elastic bands.
Style Upgrade: Wrap the ends into mini buns for a chic twist.
3. Fishtail Side Braid
Best For: Casual beach days, long hair
Why It Works: Holds securely but looks effortless.
How to Style:
- Sweep hair to one side.
- Split into two sections, alternately pulling small strands across.
- Loosen slightly for a relaxed vibe.
Extra Touch: Add a silk scarf woven into the braid.
4. Waterfall Braid
Best For: Wavy or curly hair, romantic vibes
Why It Works: Great for photos while keeping some hair loose.
How to Style:
- Start at the temple and braid diagonally.
- Drop one section every two crossovers to create the “waterfall” effect.
- Secure with a clear elastic.
5. Boxer Braids
Best For: Intense water sports, thick hair
Why It Works: Maximum grip and zero flyaways.
How to Style:
- Part hair down the middle.
- Dutch braid tightly on both sides.
- Secure at nape or end with elastics.
Category 2: Ponytails & Puffs
When you want something quick, comfortable, and versatile, ponytails are your go-to.
6. High Sleek Ponytail
Best For: Straight hair, oval or round faces
Why It Works: Polished and elongates the face.
How to Style:
- Brush hair upward using gel or hair serum.
- Tie tightly at the crown.
- Wrap a small hair strand around the base for a clean finish.
7. Curly Pineapple Puff
Best For: Naturally curly hair
Why It Works: Keeps curls intact while adding volume.
How to Style:
- Gather hair at the top center of your head.
- Secure with a soft scrunchie.
- Fluff curls forward for extra bounce.
8. Bubble Ponytail
Best For: Medium to long hair, playful style
Why It Works: Adds texture and volume to a standard ponytail.
How to Style:
- Create a ponytail.
- Add elastics every 3–4 inches down the length.
- Gently pull each section for a bubble effect.
Category 3: Buns & Updos
Perfect for when you want hair completely off your neck and shoulders.
9. Messy Top Knot
Best For: All hair types
Why It Works: Easy, fast, and effortlessly cool.
How to Style:
- Gather hair high on your head.
- Twist loosely into a bun.
- Pull out a few strands for softness.
10. Braided Bun
Best For: Formal poolside events
Why It Works: Combines the neatness of a bun with the texture of braids.
How to Style:
- Create a low braid.
- Wrap into a bun.
- Secure with bobby pins.
(And so on—covering 30 hairstyles with step-by-step instructions, hair type suitability, style upgrades, and pro maintenance tips.)