29 Beach Hairstyles For Medium Hair

Heading to the beach? If you have medium-length hair, there are so many fun and easy styles you can try. From messy buns and loose braids to beachy waves and half-up looks, these hairstyles keep your hair looking cute and feeling comfy in the sun, wind, and water.

In this list of 29 beach hairstyles for medium hair, you’ll find simple and stylish ideas that are perfect for a fun day by the sea. These looks are quick to do and great for soaking up the summer vibes.

Beach Hairstyles For Medium Hair

1. Half-Up with Oversized Bow

This hairstyle pulls the top section of the hair back and ties it with a giant, shiny bow. It’s simple but makes a big statement. The bow stands out and adds a fun pop that fits perfectly with sunny weather and casual outfits.

The waves give the hair a soft flow while the bow keeps it neat. It works great with medium hair because it gives just the right balance half up, half down. You still get movement, but without hair sticking to your neck.

To style it, just gather the top half loosely and tie it at the back. Slide in a big satin bow clip and lightly comb the waves with your fingers. This look is playful and easy, perfect for beach brunches or photo moments.

2. Low Pigtail Braids

These low pigtail braids keep hair together while giving a fun, youthful vibe. Each side is divided evenly and braided from the nape down. It’s super beach-friendly and easy to redo if the wind messes things up.

It works great on medium hair because the braids don’t feel too heavy. They sit just right on the shoulders and add shape without needing long lengths. It pairs well with swimsuits, tanks, or overalls.

Make a center part and braid each side down low. Use simple ties at the ends and pull a few pieces loose around the face. This one’s perfect for poolside hangs or a walk near the shore.

3. Messy Braided Half-Up

This half-up style uses different braids that blend into a loose center section. There’s texture, volume, and a little twist with hair rings added for a beachy, edgy vibe. It has a casual look but still shows off effort.

It’s perfect for medium hair because it keeps the bottom light and full while the top gets detail and shape. The loose braids add movement without being tight or stiff.

Separate a few small sections on top, braid them loosely, and tie them at the back. Leave the ends out and add small gold or silver rings. The rest can be natural or slightly waved. It looks even better after a dip in saltwater.

4. Classic Beach Curls

Loose, bouncy curls are always a favorite for beach days. They give your hair shape and life without doing too much. This look is simple, easy, and works well for medium hair that holds curl without weighing it down.

The curls frame the face and add volume all around. They work with any outfit, any vibe from sundresses to swimsuits. And they look just as good windblown as they do freshly styled.

Use a curling wand or braid-dry method, then shake the curls out with your fingers. A bit of salt spray gives that soft, lived-in texture. This one’s perfect if you want to keep things low-key but still put together.

5. Side Braid Half-Up

This side-braid half-up look pulls hair back from the front and braids it along the head, ending in a soft tie at the back. It opens up the face while still showing off your waves.

It’s great for medium hair because it doesn’t need much length to make an impact. The rest of the hair stays down, loose, and breezy, making it perfect for beach walks or patio dinners.

Start with a side part and braid the hair loosely along one side. Pin or tie it back just behind the ear. The braid adds shape, and the loose ends keep it playful. You can add texture spray or keep it smooth.

6. Double Space Buns

These double buns sit high on the head and leave the rest of the hair down. It’s a beach day favorite easy, bold, and keeps hair off the face. It’s playful without being too fussy.

Medium hair works well here because there’s enough length for buns, but not so much that it feels bulky. A few loose strands at the front soften the whole look and add a little surf-girl energy.

Split the hair down the middle, twist each half into a bun, and pin them in place. Leave some face-framing pieces out and spray with a little texturizer. Perfect for poolside lounging or catching a sunset.

7. Loose Twist Ponytail

This ponytail starts with a side twist that blends into the back. It’s tidy but still soft, with the ends left natural and undone. A few loose strands around the face keep it relaxed.

It’s a smart pick for medium hair, especially if you want something pulled back but not too formal. The twist adds just enough shape without needing a complicated braid.

Part the hair slightly to the side, twist the front back, and tie everything low at the nape. Loosen the twist with your fingers and let the ponytail go free. It’s a five-minute fix for hot days.

8. High Half-Up with Waves

This hairstyle pulls the top half up into a high ponytail, leaving the rest in tousled waves. It adds height and makes the hair look full and fluffy, even with medium length.

The ponytail gives a little drama while the waves keep it relaxed. It’s great for beach selfies or throwing on a hoodie over your suit when it gets breezy.

Pull the top half up tightly and tie with a band. Tease the ponytail a bit for lift and wave the ends with a curling wand. The bottom can be loose or messy. Add a scrunchie or clip to finish the vibe.

9. Half-Up with Hidden Heart

This cute half-up look hides a heart shape in the twist, with the rest of the hair falling in soft waves. It’s subtle and sweet, and works great for medium-length hair that doesn’t always cooperate with heavy styles.

The twist keeps the top neat, while the heart detail adds a bit of charm. It looks great in bright light or beach sunsets when you catch it from the back.

Pull two sections from each side and twist them back, shaping them into a heart and tying them in the center. Wave the rest and comb with fingers for texture. No extra accessories needed, it’s cute on its own.

10. Simple Clip-Back

This hairstyle uses a big statement clip to hold back a twist at the front. The rest of the hair stays soft and loose, with light bends throughout. It’s quick, easy, and super beach friendly.

Medium hair looks great with this because the clip stands out without getting lost. It works with wet hair, dry hair, or something in between.

Twist a small section from one side and clip it toward the back. Let the ends fall into the rest of the hair and shape with your hands. This look says “I tried,” without actually trying too hard.

11. Side Braid with Glossy Waves

This look combines a wide, soft braid along the side with shiny sculpted waves through the rest of the hair. The braid adds structure at the top while the waves keep things playful and shiny. It’s great for medium hair that holds shape without falling flat.

The mix of textures gives it a cool beach vibe, kind of like a modern mermaid look. The braid sweeps the hair away from the face, making it easy to chill by the water without pushing strands aside all day.

To get this style, section off the front and start a loose Dutch braid from one temple. Let it fall into the waves naturally and lock it in with a pin or tie underneath. The rest is all about shine, add a light mist spray for that photo finish.

12. Natural Texture with Curtain Bangs

If you want something low-effort that still looks put-together, soft waves and curtain bangs are a go-to. The waves fall naturally and the bangs frame the face gently, without taking over the whole look.

Medium hair works great here since it keeps the volume light and gives the bangs room to breathe. You don’t need to do much let the salt air do some work for you.

Use a sea spray and twist sections with your fingers while your hair air dries. Let the bangs sit naturally and push them slightly to the sides. This style gives “beach day,” but make it artsy.

13. Braided Side Crown with Clip

This style has a chunky braid sweeping across the front and finishing just behind the ear. A cute clip adds a pop of color or pattern. It’s a fun, casual look that’s beach-ready but still cute for any stops afterward.

The braid gives your hair a bit of shape while the clip keeps everything secure. Medium hair holds the braid nicely without it getting too thick or flat. It’s easy to style and even easier to fix later.

Section the front, braid it back loosely, and fasten it with your favorite clip. The rest can be waved or kept straight either way, it feels like effort without being too serious.

14. Side Crown Braid

This is a tighter side braid that hugs the head and falls into the hair near the end. It frames one side of the face and keeps things clean while the rest flows down freely.

Perfect for medium-length strands, the braid isn’t too short or long. It adds just enough texture and style without needing tons of volume. You can wear this one all day and still look beach-fresh.

Start from your part and braid across, tucking the end behind the ear or pinning it under a layer. Pull a little on the loops to soften the shape, and you’re good to go.

15. Messy French Twist

Here’s a cool twist on a classic: a French twist with loose pieces around the nape and face. It gives that casual beach-updo feel while still being tidy enough for sunset dinners or seaside events.

Medium hair is ideal for this because it wraps easily without too much bulk. The pieces left out soften the look and help keep it from feeling too formal or tight.

Start by twisting the hair upward and tucking the ends inside. Pin with a few clips and let some sections fall naturally. It looks even better when the breeze hits it.

16. Playful Half Pigtails

This half-up style uses two high pigtails to lift the top half of the hair, giving it volume and bounce. It’s youthful, bold, and super fun for a day by the ocean.

With medium hair, the pigtails sit perfectly and don’t drag the style down. The loose hair underneath keeps it soft and flowy while the top adds personality.

Just section the top half into two parts, tie them up, and tease the base a little. Let the rest stay natural or give it a loose curl. It’s perfect for dance playlists and beach snacks.

17. Volume Pony with Bangs

This ponytail has some teasing at the crown for height and sits mid-to-low at the back. Paired with curtain bangs, it looks retro without trying too hard.

Medium hair holds volume like this really well. It gives you that extra lift without needing a mountain of hair. The bangs break up the shape and frame the face with softness.

Tease the top section, smooth it back, and tie the ponytail low. Pull a few front pieces forward, especially if it’s windy. It’s the kind of style that says, “I just threw this together,” and kind of means it.

18. High Half Pony with Scrunchie

A half-up ponytail with a loud scrunchie gives you throwback beach energy. It adds lift at the crown and shows off your waves, all while keeping hair out of your face.

Medium-length strands look great tied up like this. There’s just enough hair for volume without the ponytail taking over. A fun scrunchie pulls the whole vibe together.

Pull the top half up high, tie it tight, and fluff it a little with your fingers. Use a patterned scrunchie to bring some flair. You’ll feel like you belong in a beach-side montage.

19. Loop Twist Half-Up

This style takes two pieces from either side, twists them, and ties them in a loop at the back. It’s soft, a little quirky, and perfect if you want something casual but different.

Medium hair ties well without sliding, so the loop stays put. The twist adds interest while the ends stay free for movement. It works well even if your hair’s a bit wild.

Grab a section from each side, twist both inward, and tie them with a small elastic in the middle. Tuck the tail halfway through for a little loop and call it good. It’s easy and beach-proof.

20. Half Knot with Loose Waves

This look ties the top half of your hair into a simple knot and leaves the rest in soft waves. It’s one of those styles that feels casual but still cute enough for beach pics or casual dates.

Medium hair works like magic for this, enough to make a knot but still light and swingy. The knot stays in place and the waves keep everything soft and breezy.

Take two sections from the front, tie them in a loose knot, and pin them down. Let the bottom hang natural or give it a quick bend with a flat iron. Super low effort, high payoff.

21. Twisted Half-Up with Flower Clip

This twisted half-up style is perfect for beach days with a bit of charm. The hair is twisted from each side and secured at the back using a playful pink flower clip. It pulls the front strands away from the face while letting the rest flow freely in soft waves.

The twist adds a fun shape, and the clip brings a touch of color and beachy vibe without trying too hard. It’s quick to style and holds up well with salt air and movement.

For medium-length hair, this look hits the sweet spot light, breezy, and stylish. Twist each side, secure with the clip, and let the waves bounce. Add a bit of spray if you want more hold or volume.

22. Sleek Braided High Pony

Here’s a bold beach style that keeps everything clean: a slick high ponytail finished with a long braid. It’s tight at the crown and trails smoothly down, giving a sleek contrast to sandy beach days.

Medium hair has just enough length to give this braid a defined shape. The base is neat and stays put, even when it gets a little windy. It’s a style that works well from beach towel to late-night drinks.

Tie a tight high ponytail, smooth back the top, and braid the length evenly. Use a tiny elastic at the end. If you want more grip, add dry shampoo or texture spray first.

23. Half-Up Knotted Twist

This relaxed knotted half-up hairstyle is a great choice for beach days. It takes the top section and loops it into a soft knot at the back, letting the rest fall naturally. The soft waves give it shape and movement.

Medium hair holds this knot well without pulling or sagging. It’s low effort but looks styled, which is perfect when you want something cute without a fuss.

Gather the top half, tie it into a soft knot, and pin or tuck it securely. Let the rest wave or curl slightly, depending on your mood or the weather. Easy, chill, and pretty.

24. Soft Messy Low Bun

This low bun is styled to look relaxed and beach-ready. Loose strands frame the face while the bun itself stays soft and slightly messy. It’s great for keeping cool and looking good without having to fix your hair every ten minutes.

Medium-length hair wraps perfectly into this type of bun. It’s not too much and not too short it hits that nice middle ground where everything stays light.

Pull your hair into a low ponytail, wrap it loosely, and pin. Let some front pieces fall or tug a few out to soften it. Add a bit of spray or leave it natural.

25. Pull-Through Faux Hawk

This creative updo adds texture with volume. It’s a faux hawk-style pull-through made with stacked ponytails looped over each other. The rest is pinned up, with soft waves left around the face for a casual touch.

Medium hair works great here. It’s long enough to build shape without feeling too bulky. This look stands out, especially when paired with beachwear or poolside looks.

Start with a few stacked ponytails, pull them through each other, and fluff each section for that bubble look. Secure everything and pull a few front pieces forward. You’ll be beach-ready with a twist.

26. Smooth Twist Half-Up

This smooth twist look pulls hair from both sides and wraps it neatly in the back. The bottom hair is left soft and wavy, giving it flow and a bit of movement. It’s polished but still chill enough for beach days.

Medium-length hair is ideal for this, it’s enough to twist cleanly and not fall out too easily. This style gives you that soft shape with minimal effort.

Take a section from each side, twist back, and cross them at the back. Pin or tuck underneath, and you’re set. You can add a wave or just go natural depending on how salty the air is.

27. Glitter Bow Bun

This style shapes the hair into a large bow at the back with added glitter scattered throughout. The bow gives it a fun, standout look while the sparkle feels playful and summery.

Medium hair ties into a bow easily and holds its shape better than you’d think. It’s one of those styles that looks complex but feels light and cheerful.

Split the hair into sections, shape into a bow, and tie with a central strand. Add glitter to the top for that extra shine. Perfect for parties, beach pics, or just being the center of attention.

28. Braided Crown with Loose Bun

This soft crown braid wraps around the head and ends in a low, textured bun. It frames the face and adds a little structure while still feeling light and breezy.

For medium-length hair, this braid is just the right size. It doesn’t get too thick and wraps nicely. The bun at the back stays soft and holds through the day.

Braid one side and work it around the top, pinning as you go. Wrap the rest into a bun and pull out a few pieces. It gives you a beachy vibe with a bit of flair.

29. Loop-Through Pony Half-Up

This half-up ponytail uses a little loop-through twist that makes it look more styled without needing much work. The rest is wavy and loose, perfect for medium hair with a soft texture.

This look adds volume and shape at the back while keeping the top neat. The ponytail lifts slightly and the loop detail makes it feel just a bit more styled.

Pull the top half back into a ponytail, then create a hole above the elastic and flip the ponytail through it. Gently tighten and fluff the twist. The waves below do the rest of the work.