Want to master the beach waves look without booking a salon appointment? You’re not alone. Many people crave that effortless, tousled texture—but struggle to achieve it at home.
Whether your hair is fine, thick, short, or long, there’s a beach wave method that works for you, with or without heat.
In this guide, we’ll show you four proven techniques to help you get salon-worthy waves using tools you already own. From blow-dry methods to heatless pin curls, you’ll learn how to customize your look to your hair type and routine.
Let’s dive into the easiest ways to get that sun-kissed, sea-swept style—no beach trip required.
1. Blow-Dry Beach Waves

Step 1: Spritz wet hair with a blow-dry heat protectant.
Step 2: Blow-dry your hair until it’s 80% dry.
Step 3: Apply curl-hold spray for added structure.
Step 4: Section your hair. Using a size two ceramic round brush, wrap your hair away from your face and direct the airflow from the blow dryer.
Step 5: Twist and unwind the hair off the brush in the direction of the curl. Use the cool shot button to lock in the wave.
Step 6: Gently paddle brush through your hair to detangle and soften the wave pattern.
Pro Tip: If you have Type 2 wavy hair, this method enhances your natural texture beautifully. We recommend using Kérastase for heat protection and nourishment.

2. Air Dry Beach Waves (No Heat Method)

Step 1: In the shower, finger-comb conditioner through your hair. Avoid brushing to prevent frizz.
Step 2: Gently blot the hair with a microfiber towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: Apply a moisturizing cream followed by a sea salt spray.
Step 4: Section your damp hair into loose French braids. The tighter the braid, the smaller the waves. For big waves, go loose.
Step 5: Undo the braid when it is approximately 90% dry. Shake out gently. Do not run fingers through.
Pro Tip: Use dry texturizing or volume spray to enhance the final look. Re-braid overnight to preserve waves.
3. Beach Waves Using Curling Iron

With a curling iron, you can quickly achieve a salon blow-dry look and create luscious curls at home.
Step 1: With your hair wet, spray a volumizing primer along your crown and roots. Then, air dry your hair until it is 75% dry. Wrap it in a microfiber towel.
Step 2: Once your hair is partially dry, apply a heat protectant before styling. Then, dry your hair with a blow-dry brush or a hairdryer.
Step 3: For an ideal wave style, you need a one-inch barrel curl iron with a clip. Start by curling away from your face at all times.
Place a section of your hair into the clip three inches down from the hair root and then curl back. Without unclipping, you can pull the tool downwards and towards your face. Next, slide the tool about an inch down and curl it back up.
Repeat this until you reach the bottom of your hair.
Step 4: When done, your hair will resemble many tight ringlets. Now is a great time to add a salt spray before you shake out those curls. You can use your hands to keep the volume or a wide-tooth comb. Once you shake out your curls, you can style them with styling cream.
4. Create Beach Waves Using Pins

Option A: Undone Look
Lastly, there are two methods for achieving those gorgeous, organic waves using pins.
- Start with damp hair split into two (or more) sections.
- Apply mousse for hold and twist hair away from the face.
- Cross the twists and pin at the back. Air dry or blow dry with a diffuser.
Option B: Structured Look
- Option B: Structured Look
- Use damp hair and section it evenly.
- Apply mousse and pin each section securely.
- Let hair dry completely before removing pins.
Tips to Maintain Beach Waves Overnight
- Loosely braid or twist hair before bed.
- Use a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction and frizz.
Wrap-Up: Should You DIY or Visit the Salon?
With simple tools and the proper steps, beach waves are achievable at home. Still, if you’d rather skip the effort and get it professionally done, Hāste Urban Hair Spa offers expert blowouts and wave styles.
Ready for a flawless beach wave look? Book an appointment today with our expert stylists!
FAQ
What are beach waves?
Beach waves refer to loose, textured curls that mimic the tousled, wind-swept look you might get after a day at the beach.
How do you get beach waves without heat?
You can air dry braided hair, use pins, or apply a sea salt spray to damp hair and let it dry naturally.
How do you get beach waves on short hair?
Use smaller curling irons or mini braids to define texture without overpowering short strands.
What products help create beach waves?
Sea salt spray, mousse, heat protectant, volumizing primer, and dry texture spray are ideal.
How do I maintain beach waves overnight?
You can loosely braid your hair or put it in a loose bun before bed to maintain beach waves overnight. A silk or satin pillowcase can also help reduce frizz and preserve your waves.