If you’re looking for some summer nail design inspiration, you’ve come to the right place! In this post, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite, unique nail art perfect for a tropical getaway. Whether you’re hitting the beach or the pool, I’ve got you covered. So get inspired and have some FUN with your nails this summer!
When you’re getting ready for a beach vacation, it’s always fun to plan your outfits… your accessories… and of course, your nails! There are SO many ways to get your nails vacation-ready, whether that means embracing bright colors, having a beachy theme, or even coordinating your nails with your swimsuit. I love being playful with my nails and expressing my personality!
Whether you’re heading to the salon or DIY-ing it at home, I promise you there is something here for you! I’ll be sharing lots of beautiful designs that have inspired me, as well as a few products I’ve used (and personally tested while traveling!) Let’s get started…
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Summer Nail Designs For Vacation
1. Bright (Yet Minimal) Butterfly Nails
I am OBSESSED with this design! How cute would this be if you had a butterfly swimsuit ? (p.s. I almost bought one the other day!) Butterfly designs are trendy right now and also feel like a bit of a 90s/Y2k throwback which is fun.
2. A Nod To Your Destination
Love the color scheme here and also the level of detail! This could be really fun if you’re headed to the southwest and want to give a fun nod to the culture or landscape.
3. Stamp and Go Nails
If you’re looking for a quick, easy and barely-there nail design, check out these nail stamps by Maniology. It’s such a fun way to add a little something interesting to your nails and is really easy to DIY at home! I had so much fun using these on bare nails and they’re also great on top of existing polish.
4. Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
These nails just scream FUN to me, so much color and pattern. If you can’t commit to a single color or design, something like this could be a great option.
5. Classic and Tasteful Nail Design
If you aren’t a fan of bright colors and appreciate a more neutral aesthetic, this design would be a winner for sure and look great in all your photos.
6. Easy Press-On Nails
During the pandemic when nail salons were closed, I tried all the at-home DIY manis imaginable! Press-on nails are SO quick and easy and still give you a fun and *polished* look (pun intended!) I’ve used multiple brands and have been pleased with Static Nails and Glamnetic (pictured below).
7. Citrus Burst Nails
Love the punch of color here, this makes me think of oranges and lemons, or even sunshine! Really fun and happy design.
8. Coastal Perfection Nails
These are the most beautiful hues of blue and great and so, so perfect for a beach trip! Even without the designs, the colors themselves are stunning.
9. (I’m Getting Engaged on This Trip) Nails
If you know, you know (*wink). Gotta be ready just in case, am I right? If you are on a beach vacation with a significant other and you think they might propose, you DEFINITELY want to invest in your mani ahead of time. My now-husband and I actually got engaged on a trip to Galveston Island, TX! I love this simple and timeless design for an occasion like this.
10. Shell-Inspired Nails
So stunning! Another design that’s neutral but glam and so gorgeous. The sparkle and sheen reminds me of an abalone shell, or an oyster with a pearl inside.
11. Ocean-Inspired Nails
The nails and then the jewelry to match?! This is such a fun work of art and especially if you love the ocean and marine life.
12. Abstract and Colorful Design
So pretty! This one would be nice if you like to incorporate color into your style and also want to make a bold
statement.
13. Minimal Dots Nails
I enjoy the simplicity of this design and how they used a punch of yellow to make it feel more summery.
14. Gilded and Glam Beachy Nails
Love that this design reminds me of waves breaking on the coastline and the gold is like the sun’s rays bouncing light. Such a stunning design!
15. Colorful, Tropical Nails
If this doesn’t scream summer beach vacation, I don’t know what does. Love the use of color and how they incorporated a palm leaf.
16. Contrasting Color Nails
I love choosing colors like pink or orange for when you’ll be around water. The contrasting colors make your nails really pop, like in this picture. They also accentuate your tan!
17. Stars and Stripes Nails
This look would be so perfect for Independence Day or Memorial Day (or just anytime you’re feeling patriotic!)
18. Custom Stick On Gels
Another pandemic purchase! I tried ManiMe and was really impressed! There are lots of stick on gels out there and they’re cool because it covers your entire nail and adheres like a really strong sticker. ManiMe goes an extra step by custom sizing them for your hands, which is really cool. They also have some amazing designs!
19. Detailed Floral Nails
The intricacy of this design is so detailed but still delicate. I would wear this design on a trip to Mexico!
20. Let’s Be Mermaids Nails
If you dreamed about being a mermaid as a kid (or your favorite movie growing up was The Little Mermaid like me), you’ll love this whimsical design that also uses iridescent finishes.
21. Underneath the Palm Trees
Palm tree nail design can get tacky (sorry, I said it). But this is one example of how it can be done beautifully.
22. Never Enough Sparkle Nails
These would catch the light so beautifully at the beach or pool! Absolutely in love with this design
Keep Your Nails Looking Good On Your Trip
If you’re planning to be in the ocean or pool, here are a few tips to keep your nails fresh and looking good for your entire trip:
- Be gentle with your luggage! My nails have been the victim several times when I’m rushing out the door or struggling to put luggage in the overhead bin on a plane. Take your time ladies! Preserve that mani
- If you’re using traditional polish, don’t skip your base and top coats! Sun, sand, salt and chlorine can all wear your polish down so they need those two steps to last
- Bring some repair items along with you, like a nail file, glue, and clippers just in case
- Consider gel, acrylic or dip powder (my personal favorite!) because these are most resistant to the elements and last for 2+ weeks
More Summer Beauty Tips
Be sure to check out a few of my other posts for tips on summer hair and makeup:
- 10 Beach Vacation Makeup Essentials
- How To Get A Tan: Tips For Your Beach Vacay
- Reef Safe and Biodegradable Sunscreen: 16 Options
Summer is the perfect time to take a vacation, and what better way to celebrate your trip than with a gorgeous new manicure? Whether you’re hitting the beach or exploring a new city, I hope you had fun exploring these stunning looks! So which one is your favorite? Comment below and let me know!
