18 Pool Hairstyles That Stay Cute and In Place While You Swim

When you’re heading to the pool, the last thing you want is hair that gets in the way. That’s why pool hairstyles are such a summer favorite they keep things easy, stylish, and totally swim ready. You can throw your hair up, braid it down, or twist it back and still feel cute and confident.

These looks are trending because they mix comfort with personality, and they hold up even after a dip. Whether you’re lounging or swimming laps, the right hairstyle can boost your mood and make you feel put together without the fuss.

Tips for Keeping Hair Healthy at the Pool

• Don’t forget to let your hair air dry when you can—it’s gentler than heat.
• Rinse your hair with clean water before you swim. It helps your hair soak up less chlorine.
• Use a little leave-in conditioner to protect your hair while you’re in the water.
• Try to braid or tie your hair to stop it from tangling too much.
• After swimming, wash your hair gently and use conditioner to add back moisture.

1. Sleek Low Bun

A low bun with a smooth finish offers a clean, elegant look that holds up beautifully in poolside settings. It’s ideal for straight to slightly wavy hair and helps keep everything neatly tucked away.

You can wear it with confidence at any summer event near water, knowing it won’t unravel or frizz easily. The polished feel also makes it easy to transition from a swim to dinner plans.

2. Scrunchie Side Bun

A soft side bun secured with a scrunchie brings an easygoing, beachy charm that’s made for pool days. It’s perfect for naturally wavy or slightly messy textures and adds a playful vibe to your look.

You can toss it up quickly before a swim or lounging session, and it still looks stylish as it air dries. The scrunchie adds a gentle hold without creasing the hair.

3. Bubble Pigtails

Playful bubble pigtails bring a bold and fun look that’s ideal for pool parties or active days in the sun. You can rock this style on medium to long hair, especially if it has some natural thickness.

The sectioned bubbles hold their shape well even when wet, and the symmetrical design keeps hair out of your face. You’ll stand out with this energetic and sporty vibe that photographs beautifully.

4. Long Box Braids

Long box braids offer a sleek, protective style that can handle pool water, sun, and humidity with ease. This look suits coily or kinky textures and gives you a carefree way to enjoy swim days without daily styling.

You can swim, dry off, and head straight to the next activity without needing to fix your hair. The braids stay neat and stylish while protecting your natural hair underneath.

5. Shell-Adorned Bun

Colorful yarn and shell accents give this curly bun a festive, tropical flair that’s perfect for a vibrant poolside vibe. You can wear it on textured or curly hair, and the added wraps keep everything in place even during breezy afternoons.

The shells and bright threads catch the light and movement, adding personality and flair while your hair stays secure and stylish through splashes and sunshine.

6. Dutch Double Braids

Tight Dutch braids bring a sporty and secure style that’s ideal for any pool activity, from lounging to laps. You can count on this look to stay in place through water and movement, making it perfect for medium to long hair types.

The braids hug the scalp and give your head a clean, sleek shape that keeps hair tangle free and cool all day long.

7. Messy Clip Bun

A relaxed claw clip bun creates a soft, breezy look that’s perfect for casual poolside lounging. You can use this style on straight or wavy hair when you want something quick yet cute.

The loose strands and texture give it that easygoing summer feel, while the clip keeps it secure without pulling too tight. You’ll love how effortlessly it pairs with swimwear, oversized shades, or a beach towel moment.

8. Colored Feed-In Braids

Bold feed in braids with color extensions make a statement while keeping your hair fully protected from pool water and humidity. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or running around without ever needing to restyle.

This look works best on tighter textures and blends function with personality thanks to the color contrast. You’ll stand out with vibrant braids that stay fresh all day, no matter how much water fun you’re having.

9. Braided Low Bun

Layered braids wrapped into a low bun give a beachy, textured style that holds beautifully in wind and water. You can try this on medium to long hair, especially if you like relaxed, carefree vibes.

The braids help keep strands in place, and the messy bun shape adds volume and movement. You’ll feel comfortable diving into fun while still looking totally put together.

10. Cornrow Space Buns

Neat cornrows styled into double space buns make a fun, playful option that keeps your hair secure and sweat free. You can rely on this look for active pool days or beach games, and it’s great for coily, curly, or straight hair types.

The buns lift everything off your neck while the braids control frizz, so you can swim, sunbathe, or dance with no fuss.

11. Waterfall Braid Fishtail

A dramatic braid combo like this one blends a waterfall pattern into a fishtail, creating a standout look that stays neat near the pool. You can enjoy how well it holds even with sun and water around.

This style is great for long, thick hair and adds amazing texture and depth. You’ll get compliments while your hair stays stylish and controlled throughout all your poolside plans.

12. Half-Up Braid Bun

A soft braid that wraps into a half up bun gives off a romantic, breezy vibe that’s ideal for relaxing days by the water. You can pull this off with wavy or lightly textured hair, and it keeps the front out of your face while letting the back flow freely.

The mix of structure and movement means you stay cool and cute, even after a swim or splash.

13. Braided Crown Bun

A chunky braid leading into a low tucked bun creates a secure, stylish poolside look with zero fuss. You can rely on this if you’re swimming or just lounging in the sun it stays in place and adds a little polish.

The shape flatters most hair types and textures, especially medium to thick hair. You’ll feel neat, comfortable, and photo ready all at once.

14. Loose Side Braid

A voluminous side braid with flowing ends gives a soft, romantic style that’s perfect for relaxed poolside afternoons. You can wear this look with naturally wavy or curled hair, and it lets your texture shine while staying practical.

The side placement keeps hair off your back but still allows it to move freely. You’ll love how beachy and effortless it feels, even with minimal upkeep.

15. Bubble Wrap Ponytail

A bubble ponytail with soft twists brings playful structure to your look while keeping your hair away from your face and neck. You can enjoy this style on medium to long hair, especially if you love trying something different but simple.

The bubbles hold shape even after a swim, and the style adds volume without needing extra heat or styling products. You’ll stay cool and stylish at any pool party.

16. Flat Twist Braids

Defined flat twists with chunky ends offer a protective and low maintenance option that’s perfect for pool days. You can rock this look with natural, coily hair textures, and it’ll stay fresh through water, sun, and activity.

The pattern adds visual interest while keeping your scalp cool and your strands secure. You’ll spend more time enjoying yourself and less time worrying about frizz or shrinkage.

17. Short Textured Pixie

A tousled pixie cut gives you a cool, low-effort option that works perfectly around water and heat. You can keep your hair light and off your neck, which is great for sun-drenched pool days.

The choppy layers add volume and movement, and you won’t have to worry about styling when you’re hopping in and out of the water. You’ll feel stylish and free with barely any maintenance.

18. Scarf-Wrapped Curls

High curls wrapped in a statement scarf create a playful, protective look that’s perfect for curly textures. You can use this style to keep frizz in check while enjoying poolside activities.

The scarf adds personality and helps control your roots, making it both practical and bold. You’ll feel confident and comfortable with a secure updo that still shows off your natural volume and bounce.

Conclusion

You don’t need to overthink your poolside look just pick a style that feels fun, secure, and easy for you. Whether you go with braids, buns, or a short crop, you can enjoy your swim day while keeping your hair looking great.

Try one of these pool hairstyles next time you’re heading out, and feel confident knowing you’ve got a look that works just as hard as you do.