10 Summer Hairstyles for Long Hair Easy Enough to Do in 5 Minutes or Less!
When summer hits, I know one of the first things I start thinking about—besides planning the next beach day or dreaming of a spontaneous roadtrip—is how to keep my long hair looking cute without melting in the heat. As someone who juggles a busy schedule and still wants to look put-together, I’ve spent countless summers searching for the perfect easy hairstyles that are not only stylish but also quick enough to pull off in just a few minutes.
After years of experimenting (and a few too many sweaty hair disasters), I’ve rounded up 10 of my absolute favorite summer hairstyles for long hair that are easy, chic, and completely do-able in 5 minutes or less. These styles are perfect whether you’re headed on vacation, lounging by the pool, or just want to add a little sparkle to your everyday look.
Let’s dive into these effortless yet trendy hairstyles that suit all textures—straight, wavy, curly, or thin hair—and give your long locks the love they deserve this summer.
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1. The Messy High Bun (Perfect for a Beach Day!)
Nothing screams summer like a tousled, high bun that’s just the right amount of messy. It’s not only quick and easy but also practical when you’re spending the day under the sun. This look keeps your hair off your neck and works well with wavy or curly textures that thrive in humidity.
Pro tip: Use a little texturizing spray before pulling your hair up to give it some grip.
2. Half-Up Twisted Crown
This half up style adds a romantic, boho flair to your summer look. Take small sections from each side, twist them, and pin them at the back to create a crown-like effect. Leave the rest of your hair down for an effortlessly beautiful finish.
Perfect for vacation photos, brunches, or even summer weddings—it’s one of my personal go-to styles for feeling put together without trying too hard.
3. Quick Braided Ponytail
For those days when you want to look like you made an effort (without actually making an effort), this braided ponytail has your back. Start by creating a low or mid ponytail, then braid it loosely and secure with a clear elastic. Tug gently on the braid to give it that voluminous, lived-in vibe.
This look is ideal for thin or straight hair, giving it texture and life instantly.
4. Loose Waves with Scarf Tie
There’s something so carefree and flirty about wavy hair and a scarf tie. Whether you use a curling wand or just braid your damp hair the night before, once those waves are set, tie a silk scarf around your head or into a ponytail for a touch of vintage glam.
This is one of my favorite fun styles for a roadtrip—effortless, breathable, and always picture-ready.
5. Sleek Low Bun
If you're heading to a meeting or simply want something more polished, the sleek low bun is always a winner. Apply a little styling gel, part your hair down the middle, and twist your ponytail into a low bun. Secure with bobby pins and smooth flyaways with a brush.
This style is perfect for straight hair and looks great even on second- or third-day strands.
Amazon Must-Haves to Elevate Your Summer Hair Game
After testing dozens of tools and products, here are my personal summer hair heroes from Amazon that make these styles not just easier but better:
1. Conair Double Ceramic Curling Wand
This curling wand is lightweight, heats up fast, and creates long-lasting waves and curls—perfect for styles like the scarf tie or half-up crown.
Shop the Conair Double Ceramic Curling Wand on Amazon
Get effortless waves in minutes—perfect for beach days or roadtrip glam!
2. Kitsch Satin Sleep Scrunchies (5-Pack)
These soft, no-damage scrunchies are perfect for throwing your hair into a messy bun, half-up look, or even a braided ponytail—and they help reduce frizz overnight.
Shop Kitsch Satin Sleep Scrunchies on Amazon
Cute, comfy, and kind to your hair—say goodbye to breakage this summer!
3. Scunci No-Slip Grip Jaw Clips
Every girl needs a solid jaw clip. These are ideal for the claw clip twist style I’ll share later, or for quick on-the-go updos when you're out and about.
Shop Scunci Jaw Clips on Amazon
Functional meets fashionable—keep your look locked in while looking cute!
6. Curly Half-Up Puff
For my curly-haired ladies, embrace that volume! Pull the top half of your curls into a puff using a scrunchie or band, and let the rest flow freely. It gives height and structure while showing off your gorgeous natural texture.
This half up style is one of my favorites for fun summer nights—flirty and full of personality.
7. Braided Front Bangs with Loose Hair
Even if you don’t have bangs, you can fake them! Take two small sections near your temples, braid each, and pin them back into your hairline, allowing the rest to fall down naturally.
It’s simple, sweet, and perfect for thin or straight hair that needs a bit of detail without much effort.
8. The Vacation Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is a travel staple. Start with a regular ponytail, then add clear elastics every few inches. Gently tug each section to “bubble” it out.
This is a quick style that adds playful flair, making it ideal for a vacation, beach day, or even airport travel.
9. Mini Top Knot with Loose Waves
Sometimes you want just a little hair out of your face. Gather the top quarter of your hair into a mini bun, leaving the rest in wavy or curly glory. It’s flirty, breezy, and takes seconds.
Perfect for roadtrips or a spontaneous beach picnic.
10. Quick Claw Clip Twist
Claw clips are back, and I couldn’t be happier. Simply twist your hair and clip it up—done. It’s the ultimate lazy-girl updo that still looks intentional. Works for all textures, especially when your hair has that second-day grit.
I love this style when I need to go from grocery runs to pool parties with zero fuss.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Styles Last All Day
Because what’s the point of a cute hairstyle if it melts by lunchtime?
If you're traveling, make sure to pack a few accessories like scrunchies, silk scarves, and mini claw clips—they can instantly elevate any look and save your hair on humid or windy days.
Final Thoughts: Let Your Hair Be the Fun Part of Summer
I know from personal experience that long hair in the summer can feel like a chore—but it doesn’t have to! With these simple, cute, and quick hairstyles, you’ll have more time to enjoy your vacation, soak up your beach day, or dance through your roadtrip soundtrack without worrying about your hair.
What I’ve learned through writing this blog (and living these hair hacks myself) is that it’s not about perfection—it’s about feeling good and having fun. Whether your hair is curly, thin, wavy, or straight, these styles are made for real women with real lives who just want to look cute without the extra stress.
Which style will you try first?
Tag me in your recreations or let me know your go-to summer hair trick—I’d love to hear it! And don’t forget to grab the Amazon essentials that’ll make your 5-minute hairstyle dreams come true. Summer isn’t waiting—neither should your hair!