Imagine: It’s 85 degrees, you’re planning on heading out to the beach or pool, but there’s just one problem. You can’t decide what to do with your hair at all. You could opt for classic beach waves, maybe that new updo you saw on TikTok. Either way, it can be so hard to pick the best swimming hairstyles, but there’s no need to worry, we’ve got you covered. 

Keep scrolling to check out 10 of the best swimming hairstyles you can rock this summer. 

French Braid

A classic French braid is the perfect way to keep your hair out of your face. You don’t need to worry about it blowing around or becoming tangled in the water. Plus, you’ll be left with wavy strands if your hair dries in braid. 

Bubble Ponytail

A bubble ponytail is a unique twist on your typical ponytail style. This updo uses many hair elastics throughout the length of the ponytail to create the bubble effect. If you want a fun twist on a common style, opt for this!

Double French Braid 

Similar to a single French braid, double French braids have the same effect and benefits to your strands. However, this creates a different, more trendy look. 

Top Knot

Don’t feel like dealing with your hair at the beach of pool? We can’t blame you! Gather your hair into a top knot high up on your head and rock that messy yet put-together style. 

If sleeker looks are more your style, you could use hair spray or gel to create a smooth base for your top know and then secure your bun with hair ties or bobby pins.

Box Braids

If you have natural hair, box braids are a perfect swimming hairstyle. This is a protective style that’ll help keep your hair from becoming tangled. Wear your box braids down, or create a bigger braid, bun, or ponytail with them. 

High Ponytail

Going for a snatched look? A high ponytail is the perfect style to do this. Plus, you’ll be able to keep your hair out of your face in a stylish way. 

Butterfly Clip Updo

Butterfly clips are the hair accessory of the summer. If you’re heading to the beach or pool this summer, but don’t plan on doing much swimming, these clips can be the perfect addition to your style. Wear the with your hair down or add them to an updo. 

Fishtail Braid

A fishtail braid is a compact style, but like a regular three-strand braid, but it just has a different pattern to it. Something about this style screams summertime, so it never hurts to swap out a regular braid for this fishtail variation. 

Stitch Braid Bun

Stitch braid are a type of protective hairstyle for natural hair. The braids can be thick or thin. However, it’s the horizontal stitch braid technique that’s sets them apart. The braids are then continued down the nape of the neck following the cornrow style. If you want a protective style you don’t need to think about at all, while enjoying the pool or beach, this is the perfect one!

Space Buns 

Space buns gained popularity when they started showing up in the festival scene. This is a fun take, on pigtails that makes them feel a little more grown up. 

Whether you decide for a classic doble French braid look or play around with butterfly clips, there are many swimming hairstyles you can show off this summer. 

Caitlin Reddington is a writer, editor, and content creator based in New York City. She writes about hair, beauty, wellness, and fashion. Her motto in life is ‘Never stop learning.’