Beach Nails That Shine in Summer 2025: Trendy, Fun & Classy Designs for Every Vacation Mood

Having sun on your body, salt in your hair and nails that shine brighter than the ocean at sunset—is there anything more recognizable? If you’re similar to me, your summer style starts with your nails. So, how do Beach Nails That Shine in Summer 2025 appear? Is everyone still drawn to bright colors or are we now turning to soft pastels and art inspired by the ocean?

We are exploring the most interesting designs of this season, sharing their style and feel. Whether you’re planning a full-blown vacation or just want your hands to scream I could be on a yacht right now, this guide is here to inspire. Whether you like gel or acrylic nails, you can find plenty of ideas to make your nails shine this summer.

Golden Hour Waves with a Cool Breeze

These nails are so long that they move like the breeze you feel as you walk by the sea at sunset. With navy, beige and sand ribbons and a gold swirl, this design looks dreamy, yet it is not overly fancy. It’s that elevated simple that still feels special. The finish catches the light just like a wave on a summer day and the waves themselves look like the sea splashing against the land—great style, but just a bit daring.

I usually build this trendy style on top of a neutral base such as OPI’s “Samoan Sand.” You can apply the waves by using a fine nail art brush with Essie’s “Aruba Blue” and a white color. I add the gold by using a striping polish or powder with a chrome finish. Gel nails are the perfect choice, as this style won’t chip easily on the second day.

If this is your first time doing freehand waves, use nail tape to make the borders first, then peel it off and fill the nail. In Tom Bachik’s opinion, applying thin layers helps prevent the lines from looking raised and helps the polish flow smoothly.

Whenever I want to feel elegant and unique, this is the one I reach for. There are times when your nails express what you want to say. This is that energy.

Minted Modern with Gold Accents

There’s something so effortlessly classy about pairing a creamy solid color with unexpected graphic accents. Soft peachy nudes and geometric mint green art are mixed, with the whole design bordered by gold foil. It makes me feel like I’m on a rooftop in a modern hotel with a little bit of excitement. The arrangement of the cuticle makes each nail look as if it is part of a small architectural design.

To nail this design (pun fully intended), I’d recommend starting with a gel polish base like Aprés’ “French Beige.” The mint green graphic shapes can be painted with ORLY’s “Green with Envy” using a thin detail brush. After that, sprinkle some gold leaf or foil at random spots on the piece, securing them with a tacky gel and pressing them down with a silicone tool.

I’ve noticed that creating the negative space design before adding color is similar to planning a tattoo. It’s super beginner-friendly if you’re open to a bit of trial and error. You can also use stickers with cutout centers if drawing on your nails gives you anxiety.

It reminds me of my trip to Palm Springs, where everything was simple yet eye-catching. I wore a white linen set and it looked great on me. Definitely one of my ideas summer after summer.

Mermaid Vibes Under the Sun

Come on, these pictures show someone who has just swam with dolphins off the Amalfi Coast. The bright and holographic blue color on these nails makes you feel like you’re at the beach. The nails appear to be covered in scales that shine, move and stand out. This is fun, unapologetic nail art, and I’m all for it.

If you want to do it yourself, ILNP’s “Caribbean Lagoon” will give your nails a shiny finish. Layer with a fish-scale stencil or stamp (there are some great reusable vinyls on Etsy), then top with a sheer shimmer glaze. I achieved a similar effect using the Cirque Colors “Halo Top Coat”—it’s a great look.

This design is actually easier than it looks. Applying translucent colors and sponging them on your nails will give you the mermaid look. Recently, nail pro Julie Kandalec told Refinery29 that adding depth is important: “Try jelly over metallic.” That’s where the magic is.”

Are you looking for nails that shine brightly in the sunlight? Now is your chance. I tried this before my trip to Santa Monica and ended up displaying my nails more than the view of the ocean.

Seaside Chic Meets Metallic Blue

This mani is as simple as a great vacation photo, but it looks full of details. A single nail is finished in cobalt chrome, while others are painted with ocean waves, a palm tree and thin lines of gold. It’s basically a whole tropical scene wrapped in polish. A mix of simple and bold pieces is exactly what I’m seeing for Summer 2025.

I appreciate that this one features simple lines and bold textures. You could first apply Bio Seaweed Gel’s “Peach Perfect” gel, then cover it with a layer of metallic blue foil and nail tape. You can use a fine brush and gold gel paint to decorate the palm.

Without a doubt, this kind of manicure takes time, but the end result is worth it. Worth it. Nail artist Sarah Nguyen (who’s styled for NYFW) recommends using a dotting tool for tiny coconuts or star embellishments: “You don’t need to be a painter, just steady.”

Before a long weekend on the beach, I always prepare as described above. Golden hour light brings out the best in every picture and a simple bikini and sarong look much more stylish when you wear them.

Pops of Pastel with Floating Gold

This manicure gives your nails the same joy as cotton candy, with a swirl of lavender, peach, mint and pink in a super-soft finish. The design almost resembles ocean waves and the gold foil adds a touch of sunshine, making it look like a sprinkling of magic. It’s feminine but not childish—this art design softly brings to mind the summer season.

For the perfect colors, pick Essie’s “Lilacism,” “Van D’Go,” and “Mint Candy Apple.” Draw the colors in s-curves using a striping brush, making your strokes as light as possible. The gold leaf is pressed into the wet topcoat and then covered with a non-wipe gloss.

If I’m feeling romantic, this is the music I picture myself listening to. Last July, I wore something similar to a garden party and I received more compliments on my nails than on my dress. That’s the power of inspiration at your fingertips—literally.

Ocean Dip Ombre

What makes a vacation ocean unique is a color gradient from seafoam to deep turquoise. These nails give the impression of being underwater, with their clean, bright and mesmerizing look. Soft ombré looks are like stepping into cool, clear and stylish tropical waters. The light shimmer of gold foil is similar to the way light reflects on waves.

The best way to achieve this style is to build it on a gel or acrylic base to support the design and make blending easier. When I want a great fade, I normally use LeChat Perfect Match in “Malibu Blue” and “Pastel Petal.” You should get a soft sponge or an ombré brush to help the color blend smoothly. Little pieces of gold foil give the painting a unique touch that reflects the sun.

I’ve sported this style several times; it’s always a great choice when you want to look both light and elegant. A pro tip? Top everything off with a sheer pearl glaze to achieve a wet-look gloss that stays all summer.

Blue Blossom Breeze

This set is inspired by the chic and fun styles found in Tokyo and Seoul boutiques. This means we have deep blue nails, a flower with pink crystal centers and a fan pattern that is truly beautiful. Because of the fine details and strong lines, this design works well for any dinner or for relaxing by the pool.

I really like the deep blue gloss from Essie’s “Style Cartel” or OPI’s “Russian Navy.” Sketch the flower petals with a thin brush and the shimmering fan can be done using a soft brush. You can use a striping tool along with DND’s “Diamond Dust” silver glitter gel polish. Crystal studs for flower centers? Optional, but highly encouraged.

This isn’t your everyday mani. It’s the type of set that helps you feel your most confident. I wore a similar outfit on a cruise and people often complimented me each evening. It goes great with linen as it does with glam.

Tidepool Mirage

These long nails are a mix of bright colors and sparkling dreams. At the base, tiny silver glitter makes this nail polish sparkle like sunlight reflecting on ocean waves. It gives the impression of a lively wave hitting your nails—bold, brave and very fun. I think this is the outfit a siren would don on her day off.

For this style, choose The Gel Bottle’s “Pool Party” and “Blooming Lilac,” since they have extra pigment. First, swirl the wet-on-wet gel polish and use a liner brush to guide it through your nail. Position the glitter around your cuticle and spread it lightly using a sponge or dotting tool to get the desired effect.

According to Gina Edwards, a nail artist, blending bold colors and shimmer is best achieved by mixing contrast with softness and I completely agree. Whenever I wore a similar set, I kept twirling my fingers in the sun, just like a magpie. This is peak summer 2025 sparkle.

Abstract Terrain Chic

Who said beach nails can’t be a little artsy? This design uses blocks of mint, sky blue, soft pink and rich wine red, adding modern and earthy touches to the shapes. It’s showing a cocktail on the rooftop, surrounded by an abstract mural. Surprisingly, this manicure is still simple and I think an art curator would wear it while enjoying rosé in Santa Barbara.

To get this crisp look, go for opaque lacquers like Olive & June’s “Yes Please” (sky blue), Zoya’s “Cami” (pink), and “Veruschka” for that olive green matte. If you want clean lines, use French tip guides or nail vinyls when doing your nails at home. A matte finish applied to some parts of the nails makes them look even more interesting.

This is for the minimalist with a twist—designs vacations don’t always need palm trees and sand. Sometimes they just need strong color theory. If you were to put these nails together with your passport and sunglasses, they would look absolutely stunning.

Fruit-Infused Matte Pop

Okay, this one’s juicy. Literally. With pink matte nails and hand-painted watermelon slices, along with a yellow accent, this set is both fun and very summery. It’s for the girl who packs fruit for the pool and wears a floppy hat, just because she enjoys making a fashion statement with a single color.

I also use gel polish here, putting “Bikini Pink” on the nails and “Lemonade” on the thumb. After applying red, green and white half-moons, use a dotting tool to add the seeds on the watermelon art. Seal it with a velvet matte top coat (like Kiara Sky’s) to give it that smoothie finish.

Last June, I wore this outfit at a backyard BBQ and everyone kept coming up to admire my hands. Sometimes nails are just pure joy. This one? It’s watermelon sugar nailed.

Pink Cloud Swirl

This is a shade of pink as soft as the tide near the shore. The mixture of milky white, bubblegum and lilac colors is swirled on a translucent base and applied to short rounded nails with a shiny coating. The color is barely there, easy to wear and just right for a morning spent barefoot with a coffee in your hand.

I choose to mix OPI’s “Funny Bunny” with Le Mini Macaron’s “Lavande” and “Bubblegum Crush” to create a sheer look. With a thin nail art brush, you can draw whatever curves you like, as it’s not important to make them perfect. Finish the nails with a top coat that makes them look extra shiny.

A friend of mine decided to wear something similar last year when we went to Charleston and it went with every outfit she brought. If you like simple and romantic outfits with a touch of art—you should try this sign.

Silvery Scales with a Pop

I’ve never come across designs that can be both edgy and minimal at the same time. The gray background, hexagonal shapes and one bright turquoise accent make the dress glamorous, but not too much like a mermaid. It’s stylish, up-to-date and hints at the ocean—as if you’d wear it at an elegant resort during a rainy summer evening.

You can start with CND’s “Cityscape” or Zoya’s “Dove” to get the same effect. The scales can be created using a stamping plate or a nail stencil, along with silver chrome polish. If I want a little extra drama, I use Sally Hansen’s “Pacific Blue.” It’s all about that calculated contrast.

If you want something more modern and well-organized that still reminds you of the ocean on vacation—this one will satisfy you.

Mint Tips and Maritime Charm

It looks as if a sailor’s uniform and sea glass had a baby and gave it a manicure. The minty matte base feels fresh and cooling (like AC in July), while the ocean-blue French tips and gold detailing elevate it into something totally luxe. This look is crisp, clean, and so very classy.

For a gel look, I think you should try The Gel Bottle’s “Seafoam” for the base and “Blue Lagoon” for the tips. I use foil gel and transfer foil sheets to give the embroidery a metallic thread effect. Coat the top with satin matte for a light and soft look.

A similar style made me feel more elegant when I visited Miami. Also, it matches perfectly with white and linen colors which are the main colors for your upcoming summer.

Tropical Petal Pop

Bright orange meets hand-painted florals? Yes, please. This set of gel polish has bold solid color tips and pansy flowers that appear very realistic in purple, yellow and coral. It looks like your nails have been dipped in a tropical garden. A cool design that makes it clear, “I’m not here to blend in with the crowd.”

For the orange, use the “Juicy Papaya” color from DND and for the flowers, you’ll have to be patient and use very small brushes. Begin with white petals and then add the colors on top. At the end, use a thin brush to add details and black dots to the middle of the flowers.

I’d wear this manicure to a beach wedding or pool party so that my nails are the center of attention. Trust me, these designs vacations don’t get forgotten.

Midnight Green with Gold Drift

Luxurious, mysterious and dramatic, the deep forest green matte set is decorated with random golden splashes. It gives “sunset shadows on the sea floor” energy. Not what anyone expects for summer and that’s what makes it unique. If you tend to dress in a dark way even when it’s hot, this is your chance.

Start with a matte gel base like OPI’s “Stay Off the Lawn!” Apply some foil adhesive in different places, then press in the gold flakes. You can either highlight the gold areas with a shiny top coat or coat everything in a matte finish. Both options? Stunning.

I wore this while visiting the beach in Mendocino and it matched my big sweaters and the sound of the waves. This song is perfect for the winter girls who are here in summer.

Minimal White Meets Zebra Chic

There’s something oddly powerful about this look. It features a solid white nail base, with black zebra stripes added over it and a lavender background. The contrast is sharp, polished, and totally wearable whether you’re brunching with friends or heading to a rooftop pool party. The presence of animal print adds some fun to the outfit and makes it look like the girl knows exactly what she is doing.

To get this kind of finish, I’d go for OPI’s “Alpine Snow” as a base for the white nails and “Show Us Your Tips!” by OPI for that icy lavender base under the zebra print. Use a thin brush or a stamping kit for the zebra lines, as anything thick might ruin the design.

One trick I learned from a nail artist in Miami (who works with celebs on summer vacays) is to use a matte topcoat on just the animal-print nails if you want a more editorial finish. However, I prefer my magazines to look glossy, especially when they shine in the sunlight. It feels trendy, without the need to be loud.

When I tried this for the first time, people in the grocery store line complimented me. For real. Its mix of sophistication, boldness and excitement is what makes it ideal for this summer. It’s not necessary to have palm tree decals to create a beach atmosphere.

Soft Waves of Baby Blue and Blush

Though this design is soft, it has a little glamorous surprise. The combination of soft pastel blue and blush pink gives “seaside sunrise” a lively feel and the silver arc reminds me of the moonlight shining on the waves. It’s super elegant, and it’s giving effortless romance.

I have tried using Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” and “Saltwater Happy” as a base duo and they worked wonderfully. To get that arc look, try adding some silver nail tape or a glitter liner, as Orly’s detail liners are very long-lasting. If you don’t like using tape, you can use a dotting tool to place sparkle in a crescent shape.

I think this design would be perfect for either a destination wedding or a fancy date by the sea. It feels put together but not overdone. Almost like, “Oh, these nails? I just threw them on.” The atmosphere is quite simple, yet it still catches your eye.

It reminds me of the kind of mani you’d see in a slow-motion Reels video with waves crashing in the background, soft music playing, and someone sipping a coconut drink. And isn’t that the whole point of nail inspiration?

Matte Mint Leopard Moment

This matte leopard design on a mint green background is so unexpected and I can’t get enough of it. The look is not the usual beach style which is why it’s so effective. It’s full of adventure and excitement, much like a mojito with a spicy rim.

Matte top coats are essential here. Try Zoya’s “Jace” for the base color and use a detail brush to create abstract spots with black gel polish (The GelBottle’s “Jet Black” works like a dream). If you’d like to make it stand out, I’d suggest adding a glossy seal only to the spots.

This task is simpler than it seems, so you don’t need to be an expert. The key is to not overthink the pattern. Leopard spots aren’t perfect in nature—neither should yours be. It means “I’m always on the go, but my calendar is always booked with brunches.”

My friend wore a similar outfit in Tulum and drew attention from people at the beach club. Muted colors can also make a statement in art designs.

Pastel Rainbow with a Hint of Glitter

This is joy on your fingertips. A blend of neon pastels with a shiny top coat and some iridescent flakes close to the cuticle. Just like the sunset in a glass of rosé, it’s not flashy, but it shines when needed.

This summer, pastel rainbow sets are trending, but this one is special because of its fine gradient and shiny top. The trick? Dab your ombré on with a makeup sponge and try Essie’s colors “Lilacism,” “Mint Candy Apple,” and “Tart Deco” for a lovely effect.

I was reminded of Lisa Frank when I first used this. It highlights the playful, carefree and sunny sides of us all at the same time. And that glitter near the cuticle? It looks like tiny waves catching the morning sun.

When planning a vacation and you want a piece that matches all your outfits, this is the one to choose. Bright, beachy, and versatile. Wear some mirrored sunglasses and you’ll definitely look like the main character.

Modern Stripes on Acrylic Elegance

Let’s talk bold. This long acrylic set with black stripes on a blush base looks like high fashion mixed with minimalism on a beach runway. The cars have a sleek design, are long and the atmosphere? Chic but cool. You need these nails if you’re planning a rooftop party, wearing designer sunglasses and not compromising on your style.

For this design, precision is everything. Use a high-coverage gel base in sheer pink (try “Cover Blush” from The GelBottle Inc), then apply black striping tape or hand-paint lines using a striping brush. If you decide to do your own nails, use Le Mini Macaron’s “Le Noir” liner. An acrylic base that is strong will keep your hair style intact even after swimming in the ocean or pool.

Many nail techs advise using a builder gel overlay to give the nails a glass-like finish. Betina Goldstein, a well-known manicurist, believes that shine and structure are the most important aspects of a manicure.

I really enjoy wearing these types of designs whenever I want to feel fashionable. It gives runway energy without needing to wear heels. Plus, it still fits the vacation ocean aesthetic with a twist—like you’re sipping something expensive on a deck somewhere, but you’re still in your swimsuit.

High-Summer Yellow with Gold Flecks

If you prefer a statement, nothing compares to a bright yellow nail polish this summer. The shine of the sun and the gentle sprinkling of gold make this design look like beach sand in the morning. It’s punchy but classy, and the kind of solid color that turns heads on every boardwalk or café patio.

I would use Essie’s “Hay There” or Lights Lacquer’s “Slice of Life” and add gold foil or flakes in a clear topcoat to get the same effect. The secret is to use a little bit of highlighter, not too much.

Julie Kandalec, a celebrity nail artist, believes that foiling makes any summer look more special. Her advice? Use a silicone tool to tap the foil over a layer of polish that is still sticky.

This mani screams vacation to me. It feels just as fresh as a golden hour selfie, a beach bag full of fruit and the freedom of wearing short denim and linen shirts. It’s fun, bold, and beachy without trying too hard.

Chrome Teal French With Wave Accent

This one is for the high-glam vacation ocean girls. A teal chrome French tip that curves toward the white accent looks futuristic, sculptural and hints at mermaids. The teal reflects light like sea glass, and the shape is sharp but balanced—it’s giving high-gloss art designs with precision.

Chrome powder is the star here. Start with a neutral gel base like OPI’s “Bubble Bath,” cure, and rub in teal chrome pigment on cured gel tips (you can get this at Born Pretty or Holo Taco). The wave is created by drawing with white gel and a liner brush. Seal with a non-wipe top coat for max reflection.

It might take time, but the results are totally satisfying. This kind of manicure looks perfect in vacation photos, especially with a drink, white swimsuit and water in the background. And honestly? Even when I’m hanging out with my friends in the kiddie pool, my nails still look impressive.

This one gives big designs vacations energy—like you’re living your dream summer already, even if you’re just manifesting it.

Botanical Matte in Tropical Greens

This one’s for the nature-lovers who want a little extra flair. Soft matte nude is a great background for art featuring tropical leaves in green and yellow. It’s a very relaxing place, with a strong sense of luxury and the atmosphere of a Bali spa resort.

I’d apply China Glaze’s “Cactus What You Preach” first, then use a darker gel paint to give the leaves some shadows. The matte topcoat makes everything look editorial. You may use stamping tools or simply paint with a brush if you are skilled enough.

It makes me think of days when I read a book under palm trees with no internet. It’s simple, but not plain—it says you care about detail, you just don’t need glitter to prove it.

I had something like this for a friend’s eco-themed wedding, and not only did it last forever with gel, it looked just as fresh in week two as it did day one. Trust me—this is summer nail inspiration with staying power.

Sky Blue and Black Botanical Accents

Could we pause to admire that peaceful, creamy blue background and the bold black leaves? It’s breezy, minimalist, and has that crisp edge that makes it feel pulled-together. Imagine a beach picnic with the sun setting, a woven basket bag and some soft jazz playing.

You can try “Blue La La” by Butter London or “Blue-tiful Horizon” by Sally Hansen. If you want your nails to look professional, use black stickers or a stamping plate instead of trying to draw the leaves by hand.

It’s a popular style that doesn’t seem to be trying to be trendy. This is very elegant, easy to wear and matches linen perfectly. Whenever I want to have a laid-back vacation, this is my first choice.

And fun fact? Blue is known to soothe our minds, so wearing it on your nails can help you relax. Coincidence? I think not.

Neon Florals on Barbie Pink

I’m sorry, but this one is just joy. The bold orange and yellow flowers on top of the pale pink and nude are so vibrant they say, “Hello, Beach Nails, 2025!” It’s a mani that’s as refreshing as a pool float, a frozen drink and your favorite music.

You will need to use “Mod About You” by OPI for hot pink, a soft neutral pink and neon acrylic paints or gel pots for the flowers. For this step, you should use a fine detailing brush. Finish the job with a high-gloss coat to enhance the color of the car.

It’s pure fun. I think this would suit me for a trip with friends, a concert or just a week when I want to pamper myself. This one has its own plans and they don’t change for what you want to do.

If anyone ever asks if florals are still popular in 2025, the answer is yes. Show them this. It’s all the proof you need.