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A day at the lake is all about sun, water, and laid-back fun….but your hair might not always get the memo. Between the breeze, the splashes, and the ever-present humidity, finding a hairstyle that holds up can feel like a real challenge. The key is choosing looks that are as practical as they are cute, so you can focus on enjoying every moment without fussing over frizz or flyaway.
Whether you’re diving into the water, relaxing on the dock, or heading out on a boat ride, the right hairstyle makes all the difference. Think secure braids, breezy ponytails, and buns that stay put no matter how windy it gets.
Here are fifteen lake day hairstyles that not only hold their shape but also keep you looking effortlessly fresh from sunrise to sunset. These styles are simple, stylish, and made to move with you—no matter where the day takes you.
1. The Classic French Braid
Polished, utilitarian, and always in style—the French braid is the underdog of lake day hairstyles. It nicely sweeps hair away from your face and neck, so it’s perfect for steamy, sunny afternoons or windy boat trips.
This look works particularly well if your hair is prone to tangling in water or wind, and it can be dried from wet to dry nicely. You can braid it tightly for safety or leave it loose for a casual look. Bonus: It also looks even better, all slightly tousled, with that effortless “I woke up like this” lakeside glamour.
2. Sporty Dutch Braids (a.k.a. Double Trouble)
Dutch braids are the more edgy, defined big sister of the French braid—and they won’t move. Braided underneath instead of on top, these plaits jump off the scalp for a fresh, edgy look that stays put, even if you’re getting physical.
No matter if you’re jet skiing, playing a game of volleyball on the beach, or simply lounging on the dock, Dutch braids are all control and no hassle. They’re particularly wonderful for curly or thick locks, taming volume and frizz without sacrificing a look that can transition seamlessly from Instagram to a glow-in-the-dark appearance.
Want added pizzazz? Attach a ribbon to threads or add tiny clips for a sporty, adorable finish that’ll hold up from dawn till bonfire.
3. Lazy Girl’s Fishtail (That Looks Like You Tried)
A fishtail braid creates the illusion of intricate styling with minimal effort—ideal for a relaxed-chic lake day vibe. It also holds well, particularly when your hair is damp and textured from swimming. You can wear it over one shoulder for a relaxed, romantic look or down the back for something more formal. If strands fall out?
All the better—it contributes to the undone, boho look. It’s also an excellent means of highlighting natural highlights or sunbleached strands. Top it off with a colourful scrunchie for a splash of personality, or unravel the braid for a wider, more relaxed style.
4. Boxer Braids That Mean Business
Boxer braids—two tight Dutch braids—are the ideal choice for high-energy lake sports. They’re streamlined and symmetrical and remain locked in from your initial cannonball to your final s’more. This style holds every strand in check, making it ideal for sports, swimming, or just dealing with thick hair on a hot day. It also features an edgy, athletic look with a youthful feel that suits all hair types.
Want to give it a boost? Add a zigzag part, or bring in some glitter gel for a festival-perfect upgrade. Even after several hours of wear, boxer braids leave your hair tangle-free and completely Instagram-perfect.
5. Boho Crown Braid for Golden Hour Glow
The crown braid is essentially a flower crown out of your hair—airy, feminine, and unexpectedly practical. It keeps your hair out of your way and off your shoulders, ideal for staying cool while still looking put together. Best for second-day lake hair, it smooths frizz and hides greasy roots without sacrificing a serious sunset photo opportunity.
This style complements sundresses, off-the-shoulder blouses, and floppy hats well. For an added touch of softness, grab a few framing tendrils. It’s also excellent for thinner hair because it gives the appearance of volume and texture from just a little teasing and pinning.
6. Messy Top Knot for the Wind
In case of uncertainty, twist it up. The sloppy top knot is a lake day rescue—fast, adorable, and almost wind- and waterproof. It’s best on second-day or damp hair and can be finished in under one minute. Pull your hair up high on your crown, twist, and pin with a scrunchie or clip.
Leave a few wisps hanging loose for that effortless, sun-kissed feel. It’s perfect under a hat, sunglasses, or while lounging in a hammock. And if you jump in the water? No worries. It still looks chic when it dries—if not better than before.
7. Low Twisted Bun That Means Business (and Leisure)
Are you looking for a style that exudes “effortless” elegance yet still feels a little dressed up? Enter the low twisted bun. This effortless yet elegant look is perfect for lake days when you want your hair out of your face but don’t want to go full glam. Twist your hair at the back of your neck and pin it up, or use a hair tie.
It’s great for working in combination with a wide-brim hat or floppy sunhat and seamlessly converts to an evening dinner ensemble. Add a silk barrette or scarf for extra pizzazz, or keep it relaxed and soft on its own.
8. Double Space Buns for Maximum Fun
Be a festival queen with double space buns—a fun look that’s ideal for lake parties or paddleboarding selfies. Split your hair into two halves and twist each one into an up bun. They’re practical (your hair doesn’t move) but ridiculously adorable. Add glitter gel or bright elastics if you’re feeling bold, or keep it casual with loose edges and baby hair.
Space buns are especially great for naturally curly or textured hair, as they show off volume while keeping things tidy. From swimming to stargazing, they’ll hold firm and keep the mood fun and light all day long.
9. High Ponytail That’s Ready for Anything
A high ponytail is more than a gym staple—it’s a sleek and sporty lake day look that keeps you cool and in style. Pull your hair up high on your crown and hold it back with a sturdy elastic or a gentle scrunchie to cause less breakage. Add a little gel or smoothing spray to smooth out flyaways if you desire a sleek look, or tease it out for added volume.
Whether you’re playing in the sun, kayaking, or lounging near the water, this hassle-free style competes with humidity and splashes. Add oversized sunglasses and hoop earrings for a clean, confident look.
10. Bubble Ponytail: A Little Play, A Lot of Hold
Need a spin on the ponytail? Get it: the bubble ponytail. It’s a fun, adorable look created by securing hair bands along the length of your ponytail every few inches and gently pulling the hair in between to “puff” it into bubbles. It’s secure, playful, and surprisingly wind-resistant. Plus, it’s best of all, it works on any hair type and length.
Add colourful elastics for a playful pop, or use the same colour as your ponytail for a more monochrome feel. It’s perfect for active lake days, and it retains its shape even after a swim—so it’s a complete winner for style and practicality.
11. Braided Ponytail for the Best of Both Worlds
If you adore ponytails but desire a bit of added sophistication, the braided ponytail is your ideal companion. Begin with a simple ponytail—high, mid, or low—and braid the tail. It’s stable and chic and puts the entire look together in mere minutes. This look plays particularly nicely when your hair is wet or textured from lake water, and it’s an excellent solution for preventing knots and tangles post-swim.
You can braid a bit of a small section of your pony for a little added design. Try with a sporty swimsuit or a beachy maxi dress—either way, you’ll be effortless-chic.
12. Beach Waves, No Salt Spray Required
You don’t require a curling wand or product to create beach waves on the lake—the natural version comes with sunshine and water. After a swim, gently scrunch your wet hair or braid it and let it air dry in the sun. The outcome? Lusciously tousled, touchable waves that appear utterly natural.
This is carefree styling at its best, perfect for anyone who has no tolerance for fuss or maintenance in their beauty routine. You can add texture with a leave-in conditioner or a sea salt spray if you have it on hand. Perfect for both short and long hair, it’s summer’s most relaxed and flattering style.
13. Half-Up Top Knot
The half-up top knot offers you the best of both worlds—it keeps hair away from your face but allows your length to get its shine on. Ideal for long hair to mid-length hair, this style is both functional and fun.
Take the top half of your hair and create a mini bun, then pin it up. The look is relaxed and adorable, perfect for boating or lake selfies. It also complements natural texture or gentle curls. Want to dress it up? Wrap a scrunchie or scarf around the knot. It’s chic, fast, and cool without trying.
14. The Headband Tuck: New-Period Convenience
This underappreciated look is a secret gem for lake day sophistication. Begin by sliding a stretchy headband over your hair (a la crown), and then tuck little pieces up and underneath the band until all the hair is wrapped in. The outcome is a gentle, vintage-glam roll that remains in place and has hair off your shoulders.
It’s ideal for concealing frizz or day-two hair and performs very well in rainy weather. Throw in sunglasses, and it’s an instant upgrade. It’s a remarkably low-fuss style that appears polished and won’t be ruined if you encounter a splash or wind.
15. Low Pony Under a Hat: Effortless and Insta-Ready
Sometimes, the least is more. A low ponytail pulled back and under your go-to lake day hat—be it a baseball cap or straw fedora—is classic and easy. It keeps your scalp covered, keeps your hair in check, and goes well with everything from swims to sundresses.
This style is perfect for when you’re swimming and jumping between and lounging, and it’s an awesome fix for windy days when you don’t want hair in your face. Slick it back for a tidy finish, or keep it loose for a relaxed vibe. Either way, it’s like day gold.
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