20 Mid-Length Beach Waves | Well Haircut Styles
Expert Salon Guide from Hairobatics.com
Mid-length beach waves are the epitome of effortless sophistication—combining movement, versatility, and a universally flattering silhouette. This style transcends seasons and occasions, easily transitioning from casual daywear to elevated evening looks. At Hairobatics.com, our stylists focus on precision cutting, advanced texturing, and personalized styling to ensure every client achieves their ideal wave.
This guide presents 20 unique, trending mid-length beach wave hairstyles—each detailed with expert technique, pairing recommendations for makeup and wardrobe, authentic color suggestions. Trust in salon expertise for results that are both current and timeless.
1. Precision Layered Beach Waves
This classic style features meticulously layered mid-length hair, designed to encourage natural movement and texture. The result is soft, dynamic waves that flatter a wide range of facial features while creating volume and bounce.
How to Cut/Style:
Request expertly blended long layers starting below the jawline, ensuring movement without thinning the ends. Use a 1¼-inch curling iron to create loose waves, alternating directions for a natural look. Finish by gently breaking up the waves with fingers and a lightweight texture spray.
Time to Attain:
40–50 minutes (including drying and styling).
Tools Required:
Professional shears, 1¼-inch curling iron, texturizing spray, paddle brush, heat protectant.
Maintenance Tips:
Trim every 6–8 weeks to preserve shape. Use a hydrating mask weekly and avoid heavy products that weigh down the texture.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ideal for ages 18–50, all face shapes—especially oval, round, and square. Suitable for professional settings, dinners, or weekends out.
Best Outfits:
Tailored blouses, structured blazers, straight-leg jeans.
Best Makeup:
Polished brows, warm bronzer, sheer rose lipstick.
Popular Color Shades:
Caramel balayage, sandy blonde, rich chestnut.
Pro Tips:
Blow-dry with a round brush for volume at the roots before curling for optimal lift.
2. Blunt Cut Beach Waves with Face Framing
A blunt, shoulder-grazing cut with subtle face-framing highlights offers a crisp, contemporary silhouette. The ends are kept sharp, while soft waves add dimension and body.
How to Cut/Style:
Request a blunt cut at collarbone length, with slight layering only around the face. Use a flat iron to create loose, S-shaped waves, then define the front with lighter, face-brightening pieces.
Time to Attain:
35–45 minutes.
Tools Required:
Precision shears, flat iron, sectioning clips, light gloss spray.
Maintenance Tips:
Schedule trims every 5–7 weeks to maintain a sharp line. Use a color-safe mask if highlighting the front.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ideal for ages 25–45, square and heart-shaped faces. Best for business, evening events, or creative industries.
Best Outfits:
Minimalist black shift dress, structured handbag, silver jewelry.
Best Makeup:
Defined liner, soft highlight, nude lipstick.
Popular Color Shades:
Icy blonde, soft brunette, espresso with caramel face-framing.
Pro Tips:
Keep waves from mid-shaft down to preserve bluntness at the ends.
3. Modern Shag Beach Waves
A mid-length shag with textured beach waves blends 1970s inspiration with a fresh, contemporary edge. Soft layers throughout create separation and effortless movement.
How to Cut/Style:
Request a modern shag with lots of internal layering, avoiding excess thinning at the ends. Style using a diffuser or curling wand to encourage natural bends, then separate with a matte texturizer.
Time to Attain:
45–55 minutes.
Tools Required:
Razor or slide-cutting shears, diffuser, texturizing paste.
Maintenance Tips:
Trim layers every 6 weeks; refresh with salt spray as needed.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 20–40; works best for round, oval, and heart faces. Great for creative fields, concerts, or weekend outings.
Best Outfits:
Vintage-inspired tees, leather jackets, high-waist jeans.
Best Makeup:
Soft smokey eye, nude blush, glossy lip.
Popular Color Shades:
Ash brown, copper, golden brunette.
Pro Tips:
Style with hands instead of a brush for maximum definition.
4. Deep Side Part Beach Waves
A deep, dramatic side part transforms classic beach waves into a red-carpet-worthy look, creating instant volume and asymmetrical interest.
How to Cut/Style:
Ask for a clean, mid-length cut with light layering for movement. Create a deep side part, then use a large-barrel curling iron for uniform waves. Finish by tucking one side behind the ear.
Time to Attain:
30–40 minutes.
Tools Required:
Sectioning comb, 1.5-inch curling iron, shine serum.
Maintenance Tips:
Set part while hair is damp for lasting hold; use shine drops for added gloss.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 28–55; best for oval, square, and long faces. Suits evening events, presentations, or professional headshots.
Best Outfits:
One-shoulder top, silk midi skirt, elegant clutch.
Best Makeup:
Classic red lips, winged eyeliner, luminous foundation.
Popular Color Shades:
Glossy brunette, deep mahogany, platinum blonde.
Pro Tips:
Tuck behind the ear and pair with statement earrings for extra polish.
5. Soft Curtain Bangs with Beach Waves
Soft curtain bangs bring an airy, face-framing quality to mid-length beach waves, giving a youthful, on-trend look with movement and softness.
How to Cut/Style:
Request curtain bangs parted at the center, blending into longer layers at the jaw. Style with a medium curling iron, curving the bangs away from the face for openness.
Time to Attain:
35–45 minutes.
Tools Required:
Shears, medium curling iron, round brush, light hairspray.
Maintenance Tips:
Trim bangs every 4–5 weeks; touch up with dry shampoo for volume.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 18–40; suits oval, heart, and square faces. Ideal for brunch, meetings, or casual events.
Best Outfits:
Floral blouse, cropped denim, ankle boots.
Best Makeup:
Peach blush, fluttery lashes, pink gloss.
Popular Color Shades:
Honey blonde, copper balayage, soft black.
Pro Tips:
Style bangs first, then work on the rest for a seamless blend.
6. Sunkissed Balayage Beach Waves
Sunkissed balayage creates radiant dimension within soft beach waves, producing a luminous, vacation-ready effect. The seamless blend of light and depth adds youthfulness and movement to mid-length hair.
How to Cut/Style:
Request salon balayage with gentle, rounded layers starting below the chin. After color, style with a 1-inch curling wand, alternating curl directions, then finger-comb and finish with gloss spray.
Time to Attain:
60–90 minutes including color.
Tools Required:
Balayage kit (professional), curling wand, paddle brush, glossing spray.
Maintenance Tips:
Use sulfate-free shampoo to preserve color. Schedule gloss treatments every 4–6 weeks.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 22–50; works for oval, heart, or square faces. Perfect for holidays, photoshoots, or outdoor celebrations.
Best Outfits:
White linen wrap dress, tan sandals, straw tote.
Best Makeup:
Champagne highlighter, bronzed skin, peach gloss.
Popular Color Shades:
Caramel blonde, honey, soft chestnut.
Pro Tips:
Ask your colorist for bright, face-framing “money pieces” for added glow.
7. Textured Shag Beach Waves with Micro Bangs
A textured, modern shag cut paired with micro bangs brings bold character to mid-length beach waves. The cut maximizes volume and attitude, ideal for those who want their style to stand out.
How to Cut/Style:
Request a mid-length shag with internal layering and razor-cut micro bangs. Use a diffuser or curling wand to define natural texture, then tousle with a matte texturizer.
Time to Attain:
45–60 minutes.
Tools Required:
Razor, diffuser or curling wand, matte texturizer, shears.
Maintenance Tips:
Trim bangs every 3–4 weeks. Refresh texture with salt spray.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 18–35; best for oval, heart, or petite faces. Perfect for creative fields, music events, or city weekends.
Best Outfits:
Vintage graphic tee, leather skirt, chunky boots.
Best Makeup:
Sharp brows, soft smokey eyes, berry lip.
Popular Color Shades:
Ash brown, smoky black, golden brunette.
Pro Tips:
Finger-style to keep the shape soft but edgy.
8. Mid-Length Waves with Deep Side Fringe
Mid-length waves paired with a deep side fringe offer classic femininity and frame the eyes. The result is movement, softness, and a flattering silhouette.
How to Cut/Style:
Request a mid-length cut with soft layers and a deep side fringe starting at the brow and tapering into the jawline. Style with a round brush and curling wand for loose, flowing waves.
Time to Attain:
35–45 minutes.
Tools Required:
Shears, round brush, curling wand, smoothing serum.
Maintenance Tips:
Trim fringe every 5 weeks. Use lightweight oil for shine and frizz control.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 25–55; great for round, long, and oval faces. Best for professional, romantic, or formal settings.
Best Outfits:
Silk blouse, wide-leg pants, pearl earrings.
Best Makeup:
Rosy cheeks, mauve lips, fluttery lashes.
Popular Color Shades:
Smoky brunette, soft copper, honey highlights.
Pro Tips:
Blow-dry fringe forward, then sweep to the side for extra volume.
9. Air-Dried Natural Beach Waves
For a low-maintenance, natural finish, air-dried mid-length waves highlight hair’s true texture with a healthy, effortless look—no hot tools required.
How to Cut/Style:
Ask for invisible, softly blended layers for shape. Apply lightweight mousse to damp hair, scrunch, and let air-dry. Gently tousle with fingers for definition.
Time to Attain:
10–12 hours (overnight air-dry) or all day.
Tools Required:
Wide-tooth comb, leave-in conditioner, lightweight mousse.
Maintenance Tips:
Detangle only when wet. Use a hydrating serum on ends.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
All ages; suits all face shapes, especially round and heart. Ideal for vacations, casual days, or busy mornings.
Best Outfits:
Cotton sundress, espadrilles, straw hat.
Best Makeup:
Minimalist: BB cream, clear brow gel, tinted balm.
Popular Color Shades:
Natural brunette, soft blonde, chestnut.
Pro Tips:
Braid hair while damp for defined waves if natural texture needs encouragement.
10. Beach Waves with Blended Layers and No Bangs
Blended layers throughout mid-length hair add movement and structure, while a no-bangs silhouette keeps the focus on the waves and overall shape.
How to Cut/Style:
Request blended, face-framing layers starting at the collarbone, skipping bangs for a seamless flow. Curl with a large iron and brush out for soft, unified waves.
Time to Attain:
30–40 minutes.
Tools Required:
Large-barrel curling iron, detangling brush, light hold hairspray.
Maintenance Tips:
Moisturize with leave-in spray. Trim every 7–9 weeks.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 18–60; flattering for oval, heart, and long faces. Works for both casual and professional settings.
Best Outfits:
Wrap dress, ballet flats, gold chain necklace.
Best Makeup:
Soft brown shadow, pink blush, nude lipstick.
Popular Color Shades:
Walnut brown, sunlit blonde, subtle ombré.
Pro Tips:
Brush out waves after styling for a fuller, more elegant finish.
11. Boho-Inspired Beach Waves with Mini Braids
Infusing mid-length beach waves with small accent braids creates a playful, festival-ready look that blends structure and movement. The braids add visual interest without overpowering the soft wave pattern.
How to Cut/Style:
Request softly textured layers to promote volume. After styling loose waves, create two or three tiny braids on one or both sides, securing ends with micro elastics.
Time to Attain:
30–40 minutes.
Tools Required:
Curling wand, sectioning clips, micro elastics, texturizing spray.
Maintenance Tips:
Spritz with texturizing spray to keep braids from slipping. Detangle gently after wearing to avoid knots.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 16–35; best for oval, heart, and round faces. Ideal for music festivals, casual dates, or summer outings.
Best Outfits:
Patterned crochet top, denim shorts, gladiator sandals.
Best Makeup:
Dewy foundation, sun-kissed blush, peach lip tint.
Popular Color Shades:
Wheat blonde, copper, golden brown.
Pro Tips:
Add beads or thread to the braids for an extra bohemian touch.
12. Glossy Mid-Length Beach Waves with Deep Gloss Finish
Ultra-glossy, mirror-finish waves on mid-length hair deliver a luxe, editorial look. The shine emphasizes texture and gives the appearance of healthy, hydrated hair.
How to Cut/Style:
Ask for one-length or very long, soft layers for the glossiest result. Curl sections away from the face using a 1.25” iron, then apply glossing serum and finish with a shine spray.
Time to Attain:
35–45 minutes.
Tools Required:
1.25” curling iron, glossing serum, shine spray, paddle brush.
Maintenance Tips:
Deep condition weekly. Use color-safe, sulfate-free shampoo to maximize shine.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 22–50; best for oval, square, and heart faces. Ideal for evening galas, date nights, or photo shoots.
Best Outfits:
Emerald satin slip dress, metallic sandals, clutch bag.
Best Makeup:
Smoky eyes, luminous highlights, berry lips.
Popular Color Shades:
Jet black, chocolate brown, cool platinum.
Pro Tips:
Always apply serum mid-lengths to ends—avoid roots to keep volume.
13. Sunlit Ombre Beach Waves
Ombre coloring brings subtle lightness and depth to beach waves, making mid-length hair look fuller and more dimensional. This technique mimics natural sun-lightened ends.
How to Cut/Style:
Request an ombre color blend from a dark root to lighter mid-lengths and tips, combined with minimal, face-framing layers. Style with a medium curling wand, focusing lighter pieces at the front.
Time to Attain:
70–90 minutes including color.
Tools Required:
Professional color kit, curling wand, wide-tooth comb.
Maintenance Tips:
Gloss and tone every 6–8 weeks. Use color-protective masks.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 18–45; flattering for round, oval, or heart faces. Perfect for summer events, outdoor gatherings, or weekend trips.
Best Outfits:
Yellow sundress, straw bag, espadrilles.
Best Makeup:
Golden highlight, bronzed skin, apricot lips.
Popular Color Shades:
Chestnut to caramel, espresso to honey, black to amber.
Pro Tips:
Ask for a soft gradient at the salon for the most natural effect.
14. Beach Waves with Disconnected Layers
Disconnected layering gives beach waves a modern, editorial edge by introducing unexpected volume and movement. This style stands out for its visual interest and versatility.
How to Cut/Style:
Request medium-length hair with visible, “disconnected” layers placed throughout—some sections left significantly longer. Style with a 1-inch iron for textured waves, raking through with fingers for separation.
Time to Attain:
40–50 minutes.
Tools Required:
Shears, curling iron, dry texture spray.
Maintenance Tips:
Use a volumizing spray before drying. Trim every 6–7 weeks.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 20–40; best for heart, oval, and angular faces. Great for creative industries, art events, or nights out.
Best Outfits:
Monochrome jumpsuit, geometric jewelry, ankle boots.
Best Makeup:
Editorial liner, matte bronzer, mauve lipstick.
Popular Color Shades:
Pearl blonde, graphite, deep espresso.
Pro Tips:
Request disconnected layers at varying lengths for maximum movement.
15. Layered Beach Waves with Side-Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs soften and balance mid-length beach waves, flattering the eyes and adding classic femininity. This versatile style frames the face beautifully.
How to Cut/Style:
Request layered mid-length hair with side-swept bangs starting at the brows and blending into cheekbones. Style with a curling wand and finish with light-hold spray.
Time to Attain:
35–45 minutes.
Tools Required:
Shears, curling wand, round brush, finishing spray.
Maintenance Tips:
Trim bangs every 4–5 weeks. Refresh waves with dry shampoo for the body.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 20–50; ideal for oval, square, or long faces. Perfect for dinners, interviews, or everyday wear.
Best Outfits:
Navy blouse, white jeans, silver hoops.
Best Makeup:
Classic cat-eye, blush pink cheeks, sheer lipstick.
Popular Color Shades:
Soft caramel, chocolate brown, sandy blonde.
Pro Tips:
Blow-dry bangs with a round brush, sweeping to the side for smoothness.
16. Undone Beach Waves with Face-Framing Highlights
Undone beach waves enhanced by subtle, face-framing highlights bring out dimension and brightness around the features, perfect for a soft, sun-kissed effect without heavy styling.
How to Cut/Style:
Request mid-length layers with lighter highlights placed around the face. Style using a 1-inch curling wand, alternating direction, then break up curls with your fingers and a lightweight texture spray for a tousled finish.
Time to Attain:
30–40 minutes.
Tools Required:
1-inch curling wand, texturizing spray, sectioning clips.
Maintenance Tips:
Refresh highlights every 8–10 weeks. Use purple shampoo if highlights are blonde.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 18–45; suits all face shapes, especially oval and heart. Perfect for brunch, daytime dates, or travel.
Best Outfits:
Ivory knit sweater, cropped jeans, tan ankle boots.
Best Makeup:
Glowing highlighter, peach blush, sheer gloss.
Popular Color Shades:
Wheat blonde, honey, toffee brown.
Pro Tips:
Focus highlights on strands closest to the face for the most radiant look.
17. Sleek Beach Waves with Center Part
Sleek, softly waved mid-length hair parted down the center creates a refined yet relaxed look. This style merges modern sophistication with beachy movement for maximum versatility.
How to Cut/Style:
Request a blunt or softly layered cut that falls just above the shoulders. Use a flat iron to create S-shaped waves, then brush through and apply serum for a smooth, polished finish.
Time to Attain:
30–35 minutes.
Tools Required:
Flat iron, detangling brush, smoothing serum.
Maintenance Tips:
Apply heat protectant before styling. Trim every 6–8 weeks to keep the ends sharp.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 20–55; ideal for square, oval, and heart faces. Suitable for business meetings, dinners, or gallery openings.
Best Outfits:
Tailored blazer, silk camisole, slim trousers.
Best Makeup:
Defined brows, neutral shadow, mauve lips.
Popular Color Shades:
Glossy brunette, icy blonde, rich espresso.
Pro Tips:
Create waves in alternating directions for extra dimension.
18. Cascading Layers with Voluminous Beach Waves
Cascading layers throughout mid-length hair add both movement and fullness, making beach waves appear larger, bouncier, and more luxurious.
How to Cut/Style:
Ask for cascading, stair-stepped layers throughout, starting at the chin. Style using a 1¼-inch curling iron, curling away from the face, and set with a volumizing spray.
Time to Attain:
35–45 minutes.
Tools Required:
1¼-inch curling iron, volumizing spray, sectioning clips.
Maintenance Tips:
Use a root-lifting mousse when drying for extra body. Trim every 7 weeks.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 18–50; ideal for oval, long, and heart faces. Great for celebrations, nights out, or events where you want to stand out.
Best Outfits:
Red wrap dress, gold statement earrings, strappy heels.
Best Makeup:
Bold lashes, radiant skin, cherry red lips.
Popular Color Shades:
Chestnut, toffee, caramel balayage.
Pro Tips:
Flip head upside down while applying spray for maximum lift.
19. Beach Waves with Peekaboo Color
Adding peekaboo color—hidden sections dyed in a contrasting or vibrant shade—gives mid-length beach waves a playful, modern twist that’s revealed with movement.
How to Cut/Style:
Ask for long, blended layers and peekaboo color (such as pastel or vivid shades) placed underneath the top layer. Style in loose waves using a curling wand, lifting sections to reveal the hidden color.
Time to Attain:
60–80 minutes including color.
Tools Required:
Professional color kit, curling wand, detangling brush.
Maintenance Tips:
Use color-safe shampoo and cold water rinses to preserve vibrancy.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 18–35; suits all face shapes. Great for concerts, art events, or any setting where you want to express personality.
Best Outfits:
Denim jacket, graphic tee, black jeans.
Best Makeup:
Colored liner, tinted balm, light contour.
Popular Color Shades:
Pastel lavender, rose pink, teal, or classic brown base.
Pro Tips:
Choose a peekaboo shade that contrasts with your natural hair for the biggest impact.
20. Beach Waves with Soft Undercut
A soft undercut at the nape or sides gives mid-length beach waves an unexpected edge while preserving movement and femininity on top. It’s a discreet way to add modern style.
How to Cut/Style:
Ask for a subtle undercut hidden beneath longer layers at the nape or just behind the ears. Style the top section in loose beach waves using a curling wand, leaving the undercut area smooth.
Time to Attain:
45–60 minutes.
Tools Required:
Clippers (for undercut), curling wand, paddle brush.
Maintenance Tips:
Trim undercut every 3–4 weeks. Keep the longer hair conditioned and detangled.
Suitable Age/Event/Face:
Ages 20–40; best for oval, heart, and angular faces. Ideal for creative fields, nightlife, or statement looks.
Best Outfits:
Black leather jacket, white tee, high-rise jeans.
Best Makeup:
Bold brows, matte skin, statement lipstick.
Popular Color Shades:
Dark chocolate, platinum blonde, deep auburn.
Pro Tips:
Keep the undercut area moisturized; style waves with volume to reveal or conceal undercut as desired.
Conclusion
Mid-length beach waves are the epitome of contemporary, versatile hair fashion—offering effortless beauty that works for every occasion, face shape, and personal style. At Hairobatics.com, our expert stylists craft each wave with precision, balancing trending techniques with authentic, personalized touches. Whether you prefer subtle layers, bold undercuts, face-framing highlights, or creative color, these 20 well-designed styles deliver both movement and structure for truly head-turning results.
For the most polished outcome, always pair your beach waves with professional hair care, thoughtful maintenance, and the perfect wardrobe and makeup. Trust in salon expertise to keep your look fresh, modern, and unmistakably you—season after season.
