10 Nail Designs Perfect for Your Summer Beach Vibe

There’s no better way to embrace the summer season — and all the vacation vibes that come with it — than with the nail art to match.

Whenever I go to any tropical destination, I make sure my nails are planned as it becomes a part of my travel aesthetics.

It never fails that bright colors, playful patterns, and a hint of coastal charm ensure my beach photos pop.

If you’re dreaming of sun-kissed days and sandy toes, your nails deserve to be a part of the picture too.

Whether you’re into minimalistic aesthetics or bold statements, these 10 nail ideas are sure to take your summer style game to the next level and leave you always looking on point.

1. Ocean Waves Design

There’s nothing that says “beach vibes” like nails that represent the beauty of the ocean waves.

Opt for a mix of blues and whites to create a swirly effect resembling crashing waves. Top it with a little silver glitter for that glistening seafoam effect.

I once had this design with a glossy top coat applied, and when those little flecks caught the sun, it looked like I had little flecks of the ocean on my hands.

2. Tropical Palm Leaves

Palm leaves make for a classic summer nail art look.

Choose a neutral or pastel background such as baby pink or sky blue and add green leaf details on one or two accent nails. This look is fresh, stylish and ideal for cocktails by the beach.

I wore this design with a flowy maxi dress last summer and it was an absolute match made in tropical heaven.

3. Seashell Accents

Nails that resemble seashells will have you feeling like a mermaid.

Use soft, pearlescent colors such as lavender or pale pink, and add mini seashell stickers or 3D embellishments to a few nails. Top off with a glossy top coat for an aquatic vibe.

I did this for a beach wedding and not even kidding, everyone wouldn’t stop asking about my nails.

4. Sunset Ombre Nails

Embrace a summer sunset with gradient ombre nails.

Merging shades of orange, pink, and yellow create the smooth luminosity. For extra flair, add a tiny palm tree silhouette on one nail.

When I tried this out to prep for a trip to Maui, the colors matched perfectly with tropical sunsets and looked stunning in photos.

5. Minimalist Starfish Art

Opt for minimalist starfish nail art for a chic yet simple look!

Apply a nude or sheer color as a base and then a couple of nails with itty bitty starfish in white or gold. It’s subtle, but unmistakably beachy.

I wore this design with a white swimsuit and let it have its moment, and the un-fussiness was a welcome option for a glam beach day.

6. Glittery Sand Nails

A glittery, textured design will bring the texture of sandy beaches to your nails.

Select gold or champagne glitter polish for a sandy vibe and leave the rest of your look minimal for a balanced aesthetic.

I wore this on a recent trip to the Caribbean, and my nails looked stunning as I walked around under the sun; this is one of my go-to designs for a tropical trip.

7. Nautical Stripes

Nothing screams “coastal chic” like classic nautical stripes.

Just use navy blue and white for the stripes, and add a small anchor or rope detail somewhere as an accent. This design will go well with any beachwear.

I’ve designed this for a sailing trip, and it just seemed like a fitting salute to seaside style.