25 Splashy Pool Hairstyles For Women

Heading to the pool but worried about your hair?

The right hairstyle can help you enjoy swimming while protecting your locks from chlorine damage and preventing post-swim tangles.

From practical braids to stylish updos, these pool-friendly hairstyles combine function with fashion.

Check out these 25 splashy pool hairstyles that will keep your hair protected and looking fabulous from the first dive to the last lap.

1: Classic French Braid

The timeless French braid offers both security and style for pool days.

This versatile style keeps your hair contained while distributing tension evenly, preventing breakage during active swimming.

You’ll appreciate how this braid minimizes tangling and chlorine exposure.

Apply leave-in conditioner before braiding for extra protection, and secure with a covered elastic that won’t snag when wet.

2: Sleek High Bun

Create a ballet-inspired high bun positioned at the crown of your head for maximum protection from pool water.

This elegant style keeps your ends completely out of the water while swimming laps.

You can enhance security with bobby pins arranged in an X pattern.

Add a cute scrunchie for both style and function—they hold wet hair better than regular elastics and cause less breakage.

3: Double Dutch Braids

These inverted braids stay close to your scalp, making them ideal for serious swimmers.

The secure style prevents hair from floating into your face during butterfly strokes or underwater flips.

You’ll love how this style distributes tension evenly across your scalp.

Apply a lightweight oil to your ends before braiding to create a natural barrier against chlorine and salt water damage.

4: Braided Topknot

Combine the security of a braid with the protection of a topknot by braiding your ponytail and then wrapping it into a bun.

This hybrid style offers maximum security for active pool sessions.

You can customize this look with one central braid or multiple smaller braids.

The height keeps your hair dry during casual swimming, while the braided structure prevents the bun from collapsing when wet.

5: Side Fishtail Braid

Add beachy elegance to your pool look with this intricate yet practical braid positioned over one shoulder.

The detailed weaving pattern helps contain even shorter layers that might escape other styles.

You’ll turn heads with this stylish option that looks increasingly beautiful as it naturally loosens throughout the day.

Spray with leave-in conditioner containing UV protection for the perfect pool-day hair care.

6: Slicked-Back Low Ponytail

This sleek style offers simplicity and function for casual pool lounging.

Apply a protective hair oil before combing everything straight back into a low ponytail for a chic, minimalist look.

You can wrap a small section of hair around the elastic for an elevated finish.

This style works beautifully for short to medium lengths and transitions perfectly from pool to poolside cocktails.

7: Bubble Ponytail

Create playful texture by securing your ponytail with multiple evenly-spaced elastics down its length, then gently pulling each section for a bubble effect.

This fun style stays secure even during active swimming.

You’ll enjoy how this youthful style prevents tangling between the secured sections.

The multiple elastics ensure your style stays intact even after multiple dives and underwater handstands.

8: Braided Crown

Channel your inner mermaid with this romantic style that wraps braids around your head like a crown.

This elevated look keeps all hair completely off your neck and face during leisurely pool sessions.

You can secure with decorative pins for extra flair.

This style works best for lounging rather than lap swimming but offers unparalleled elegance for resort pools and beach clubs.

9: Twisted Rope Braid

This simple yet effective style requires only basic twisting techniques, making it perfect for those who haven’t mastered complex braiding.

The twisted structure creates natural tension that holds even when wet.

You’ll appreciate how quickly you can create this style.

Divide your hair into two sections, twist each section, then twist them around each other for a secure style that resists water-induced frizz.

10: Pineapple Updo

Perfect for curly hair, this style piles your curls high on top of your head, securing them with a loose scrunchie.

The height keeps your curls from becoming submerged during casual swimming.

You’ll love how this protective style preserves your curl pattern.

Apply curl cream before gathering your hair to ensure your curls stay defined even if they get slightly damp from splashes.

11: Waterfall Braid

This half-up style keeps hair out of your face while allowing longer sections to float freely for a romantic poolside look.

The intricate braid creates a beautiful detail that elevates your pool day aesthetic.

You’ll enjoy the perfect balance of security and flowing locks.

This style works best for lounging or casual wading rather than serious swimming but transitions beautifully to evening pool parties.

12: Milkmaid Braids

Create two simple braids and wrap them around your head for this classic style that completely protects your hair during swimming.

The wrapped structure stays secure even during underwater somersaults.

You can customize the thickness of your braids to suit your hair density.

This timeless look offers both practicality and style, keeping every strand contained while creating a feminine, summery aesthetic.

13: Four-Strand Braid

Level up your braid game with this secure style that resists unraveling better than traditional three-strand braids.

The additional strand creates a tighter weave that holds up beautifully in water.

You’ll notice how this braid maintains its structure even after multiple dives.

The complex pattern looks impressive poolside while offering superior tangling protection during active swimming sessions.

14: Half-Up Space Buns

Combine playfulness with practicality by gathering just the top section of your hair into two small buns positioned at the crown.

This partial updo keeps hair out of your face during casual pool lounging.

You can leave the rest of your hair loose or braid it for additional security.

This trendy style offers the perfect compromise between protection and showing off your length during relaxed pool days.

15: Braided Pigtails

These youthful yet practical double braids offer excellent security for active swimming while keeping hair off your neck in hot weather.

Position them higher or lower depending on your preference.

You’ll appreciate how this style distributes tension evenly across your scalp.

The dual braid approach prevents the discomfort of laying on a single braid when lounging on pool floats between swims.

16: Twisted Chignon

Create an elegant low bun using twisting techniques rather than braiding.

This sophisticated style sits at the nape of your neck, offering a comfortable option for both swimming and lounging.

You can secure with hairpins in a cross pattern for maximum hold.

This versatile style works for everything from morning lap swimming to afternoon pool parties with minimal adjustment needed.

17: Bandana Wrap Updo

Combine hair protection with sun protection by incorporating a bandana or scarf into your updo.

Wrap your hair into a bun, then cover with the fabric for both style and functionality.

You’ll gain extra UV protection for your scalp and hair part.

This practical style looks intentionally fashionable while offering multiple benefits for long pool days under the summer sun.

18: Dutch Braid Into Bun

Start with a Dutch braid from your forehead to crown, then gather all hair (including the braid end) into a secure bun.

This combination style offers maximum security with an intricate-looking finish.

You’ll love how this style keeps every strand controlled during active swimming.

The front braid prevents face-framing pieces from escaping while the bun secures the length for comprehensive protection.

19: Side-Swept Fishtail

Position a detailed fishtail braid over one shoulder for an asymmetrical look that combines practicality with bohemian style.

The intricate weaving pattern helps contain even fine, slippery hair during swimming.

You can accessorize with waterproof hair jewelry for extra flair.

This romantic style works beautifully for resort pools and beach clubs where you’ll alternate between swimming and socializing.

20: Double Twisted Buns

Create two twisted buns positioned either at the nape or crown for a secure style with playful visual interest.

The twisted texture adds grip that helps these buns stay intact even when wet.

You’ll enjoy the balanced weight distribution this style provides.

Position high for a fun, youthful look or low for a more sophisticated poolside aesthetic—both options keep hair completely contained while swimming.

21: Slicked Wet Look

Embrace the inevitable with this runway-inspired style that works with rather than against dampness.

Apply a protective hair gel or oil to slick your hair back for a deliberately wet-look aesthetic.

You’ll appreciate this low-maintenance approach to pool hair.

This style transitions seamlessly from swimming to socializing and actually looks better after contact with water—perfect for fashion-forward pool parties.

22: Braided Ballerina Bun

Combine a sleek high bun with a braid wrapped around its base for extra security and style.

This elegant combination prevents the bun from collapsing during active swimming sessions.

You can customize with one or multiple braids around the base.

This sophisticated style looks intentionally polished for resort pools while offering practical benefits for keeping hair completely out of the water.

23: Twisted Headband Tuck

Use a fabric headband as the foundation, then twist and tuck sections of hair around it for a secure updo that requires no elastics or pins.

This technique creates a comfortable style for all-day wear.

You’ll love how this style distributes tension evenly without single pressure points.

The fabric headband adds both style and function—choose a wide version for maximum hair containment during swimming.

24: Braided Ponytail

Secure your hair in a ponytail first, then braid the length for a simple yet effective pool style.

This two-step approach offers versatility—wear high for maximum water protection or low for comfort while lounging.

You can add a smoothing serum before styling for extra protection.

This adaptable style works for all hair lengths that can form a ponytail and offers security without the complexity of braiding from the scalp.

25: Protective Cap Prep

For serious swimmers, prepare your hair optimally for swim cap use by creating flat twists or braids around your head.

These low-profile styles fit comfortably under caps while protecting hair from friction.

You’ll maximize chlorine protection by applying leave-in conditioner first.

This practical approach prioritizes hair health during lap swimming while ensuring your cap fits properly without uncomfortable bumps.

Conclusion

From practical braids to stylish updos, these pool-friendly hairstyles keep your hair protected while looking fabulous.

Choose based on your swimming intensity and desired post-pool plans for perfect poolside tresses all summer long.