How to create the perfect beach waves Guide to the most glamorous wavy hair ever

There are those who wear them all year round and those who can't wait for summer to show them off again: beach waves, the coolest waves there are, continue to be the most desired hairstyle ever. Thanks to that naturally disheveled effect that immediately makes you think of holidays, salt on the skin and endless baths in the water. The good news is that, to obtain such soft and fluffy hair, you don't necessarily need to live by the sea: with the right products and a few small styling tricks, recreating the most loved effortless hair look of summer 2026 (and not only) is much easier than it seems.

Beach wave: what are they?

Unlike classic curls, beach waves are not perfectly defined curls and not even waves built to the millimeter. Their charm lies precisely in the imperfection: natural, irregular and with a soft texture, they give movement to the hair without weighing it down. Even if there is a very precise technique behind it, the final result must seem as spontaneous as possible, as if the hair had dried in the sun after a dive into the sea. This is why choosing the right tools and preparing the scalp properly can make a real difference in the success of the look.

How to make beach waves

There is no single method to obtain perfect beach waves: between straightener, curling iron and heatless techniques, there are several alternatives to choose from. Those looking for quick styling can rely on the straightener, gently rotating it along the locks to create soft and natural waves, while the iron remains the ideal ally for a more defined but still light result. Those who prefer to avoid heat, on the other hand, can resort to heatless techniques, from classic braids to foam rollers to leave on overnight. Whatever method you choose, before starting it is important to dry your hair well, leaving it smooth or with a light natural texture. The secret, then, is always the same: work locks that are not too big, alternate the direction of the waves and don't seek perfection at all costs. On the contrary: the most successful beach waves are precisely those that seem to have been born by chance.

The products to use

The products also play their part. Before using any hot tool, a heat protector is essential to protect the hair fiber and prevent frizz. To recreate the slightly worn texture typical of beach waves, on the other hand, sea salt sprays are a great classic, even if today there are more delicate formulas enriched with moisturizing ingredients that do not dry the hair. Those who want more volume can apply a light mousse to the roots before drying, while to fix the waves without stiffening them, it is better to choose a texturizing spray or a flexible hold lacquer. The ultimate goal, in fact, is to maintain the natural movement of the hairstyle for as long as possible.