Is it worth hiring a hairstylist for a beach wedding?

More intricate hairstyles will require the work of a professional while simpler 'dos can be done on your own. Consider the style you're going after, your comfort with doing your own hair, and your budget when making the decision. If it's a destination wedding, you'll need to either arrange for your own stylist to travel there (a significant expense) or hire a pro locally .

What hair accessories are good for beach wedding hairstyles?

Flowers, flower crowns, headbands, hairpins, and barrettes are all good ways to accent your hairstyle or just keep it from blowing too much in that beachy breeze.

20 Best Beach Wedding Hairstyle Ideas

bride on a beach — Photo by KT Crabb Photography

Whether your venue is oceanside or in a classic ballroom, beach wedding hairstyles look stunning both on and off the shore. From classic ponytails to bohemian-like flower crowns, these laid-back styles are the perfect option for brides who desire an effortless look. And for those who need a little bit of inspiration ahead of their own nuptials, don't worry, we found several real brides who perfected the beach hairdo for their own big days.

Ahead, we're sharing 20 of our favorite beach wedding hairstyles, straight from real brides. Whether you have traditional tastes and are on the hunt for a humidity-friendly updo, or you're just someone who favors relaxed tousled waves, no matter where your aesthetics fall, we're confident you'll find a look you love.

01 of 20

An Embellished Updo

bride wearing white sunglasses with pearl-studded updo — Photo by Leah Marie Photography

While this sleek updo is quintessential for beach brides, the stunning pearl embellishments take it to new heights. As seen here, you can basically elevate any style with small embellishments, without taking away from that laid-back vibe you love.

02 of 20

Mermaid Waves

bride and groom holding hands on the beach — Photo by Photo by Julieta

It doesn't get more quintessential beach wedding hair than shiny, wind-swept waves. This swoon-worthy style is one that fulfills every beachy, bridal-hair dream.

Play with the finish of the hair, from matte to glossy, to adjust the look of these mermaid waves to better fit your style and vision.

03 of 20

Pony Up

couple holding hands in front of an ocean backdrop — Photo by Stephanie Brauer

Don't discount the everyday ponytail—it can make quite the beautiful wedding-day hairstyle, especially when wrapped in ribbon. Former Brides photo editor Brenda Armendariz shows us how it's done at her beachside nuptials in Mexico.

04 of 20

A Beachy Crop

Short locks are just as conducive to a beachy style as long tresses. This bride added loose waves to her shoulder-length hair and accessorized with a fabulous birdcage veil for her coastal nuptials.

05 of 20

Styled With a Veil

We're in absolute awe of this stunningly ethereal look. There's something so gorgeous about beachy, loose curls styled with a delicate veil.

06 of 20

A Messy Bun

What's the difference between an elegant chignon and an impeccable messy bun perfectly placed just at the nape of the neck? Infinite amounts of California cool-girl factor. This bride nailed the look with a few loose tendrils (and those earrings) for her boho-chic Tulum, Mexico wedding.

07 of 20

A Minimalist Low Ponytail

bride and groom holding hands on sand — Photo by Thanasis Kaiafas

An elegant, open-back gown calls for a chic low ponytail. This is the ultimate example of minimalist elegance for a no-frills bride.

08 of 20

Half-Up, Half-Down

boho bride — Photo by Kaylee Chelsea Photography

Tousled waves look even better when you pull back the front sections of your hair and let your radiance shine through. So effortless and natural, this half-up bun is playful and pragmatic all at once.

09 of 20

A Modern Crown

bride and groom at the alter — Photo by Sydney Noelle Photography

Easy and breezy is exactly what you get when you gather your curls in a relaxed style and top it off with a gold floral crown. We're obsessed with how the texture of the florals mimics that of the bride's lace dress at this Northern California wedding.

10 of 20

A Traditional Updo

indian bride and groom — Photo by Bruno Rezza

If you're the type of bride who wants a beachy 'do with a traditional vibe, this beautiful updo is calling your name. Follow this bride's lead and style your beauty moment with gorgeous accessories for a one-of-a-kind look.

11 of 20

A Sleek Option

bride wearing a topknot bun — Photo by 2digitalbodas

This look just knocked us over. Fashion-forward brides will appreciate a sleeker take on the beach-friendly updo, like this elegant beauty sported.

12 of 20

Tousled Waves

Newlyweds at the beach — Photo by KT Merry

Classic tousled waves are the perfect match for a non-traditional beach bride. We love how the texture of the hair emphasizes the dimension in Stephanie Hill's golden highlights.

13 of 20

A Polished Knot

Groom hugging bride — PHOTO BY KATE HEADLEY

For the unfussy bride looking for an easy 'do to match her sandy nuptials, look no further than a trendy low knot. The polished design will stand out on its own, so no hair accessories are needed.

14 of 20

An Added Accessory

Bridal hair accessory — Photo by The Goodness

Wedding day waves look even better with a whimsical hair accessory, as seen on this bride. We love how it mimics the flow of the hair's loose curls.

15 of 20

Boho Braids

Bride with waterfall braid embracing groom — Photo by Kaity Brawley

We've said it before and we'll say it again: Adding a braid can instantly transform a simple hairstyle into a bohemian dream. A dainty braid and soft waves complement this bride's low-key locale to a tee.

16 of 20

A Laid-Back Updo

Bride looking at hair in mirror — Photo by Kristen Curette

This is proof that an easygoing updo can look so elegant. We love how the added volume and wavy texture at the crown blend seamlessly into the carefully coiffed coils.

17 of 20

A Twist on Tradition

This is how you infuse a traditional updo with a beachy vibe: Twist it up. This style is great for allowing those back details to be the real showstopper but isn't something to go unnoticed either. A perfect pairing!

18 of 20

A Charming Flower Crown

Beach weddings and flower crowns go hand in hand. We love the lush, whimsical take that this bride wore to her wedding on the Greek island of Crete. The sweet combination of white flowers adds so much texture and dimension to her look, transforming her into a full-fledged boho Greek goddess.

19 of 20

A Beautiful Blossom

Bloom tucked into bun — Photo by Olivia Rae James

If you love a "girl with flowers in her hair" moment but don't want to go full Coachella vibes with a flower crown, there are other options. Adorn a sleek chignon with a floral detail to give it a tropical flair.

If you're having a destination wedding, consider using some of the local flora in your 'do to infuse some of the natural surroundings and environment into your look.

20 of 20

A Classic Bun

Bridal Bun — Photo by Belathée Photography

Keep it classic with a swept-back bun that shows off your killer smile. Bonus: Your hair will be off your neck when the summer sun beats down.

FAQ

Is it worth hiring a hairstylist for a beach wedding?

More intricate hairstyles will require the work of a professional while simpler 'dos can be done on your own. Consider the style you're going after, your comfort with doing your own hair, and your budget when making the decision. If it's a destination wedding, you'll need to either arrange for your own stylist to travel there (a significant expense) or hire a pro locally.
What hair accessories are good for beach wedding hairstyles?

Flowers, flower crowns, headbands, hairpins, and barrettes are all good ways to accent your hairstyle or just keep it from blowing too much in that beachy breeze.