20 Summer Beach Nails: Chic Designs & Lively Colors for Sandy Shores

Dream in shades of blue with our serene sea-inspired nail designs. They’re as calming as a gentle tide, perfect for a peaceful beach day.

Swept by the Ocean Waves

Are you ready to embody the spirit of the sea on your fingertips? These nails are a symphony of azure and gold, reminiscent of sunlight dancing on ocean waves. As a professional manicurist, I see this design as a celebration of the beach’s dynamic character – vibrant, yet serene. The use of gradient blue hues seamlessly transitions like the tides, while specks of gold glitter resemble the sandy shores glistening under the summer sun.

Photo credit by: @auranails_yyc

• Consumables: Ocean Blue Gel Polish, Sun-kissed Gold Glitter, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Azure Beachside Blues by SeaScape Nails, Gold Rush Glitter by Sparkle & Co, Crystal Clear Top Coat by LastingShine.
• Recommendations: Apply the blue gradient with a sponge for a natural oceanic effect, and for the glitter, a precision brush to place those golden specks strategically.

To recreate this beach theme nails masterpiece at home, begin with a white base coat to make those colors pop. Sponge on the blue gradient, starting with the darkest shade at the tip. While the second layer is still tacky, gently press in the gold glitter for that sun-kissed effect. Seal with a high-gloss top coat for durability through your beach escapades.

Tropical Sunset Horizon

As if capturing a slice of the evening sky, these nails boast a pink and blue gradient, adorned with speckles that mimic the freckling of starry beach nights. My professional take on this is a nod to the daring and playful. The sharp geometric shapes add a modern twist to the summer nails colors, while the pink speckles inject a pop of fun.

Photo credit by: @starnailspompano

• Consumables: Sunset Pink Gel Polish, Twilight Blue Gel Polish, Mattifying Top Coat.
• Brands: Sunset Blush by Vibrant Vinyls, Dusk Blue by Modern Nails, Matte Over Matter Top Coat by Velvet Matte.
• Recommendations: The matte finish is a striking contrast to the typical glossy beach nails, providing an unexpected but pleasant tactile experience.

For DIY enthusiasts, start with a base coat that prevents staining. Gradually blend your sunset pink into the twilight blue using a clean makeup sponge, working while the polish is wet. Before curing, dot the pink speckles for that beachy, whimsical charm. A matte top coat finishes the look, transporting you to summer evenings by the sea.

Shimmering Sands

Invoking the serenity of a beach stroll, these nails are a harmonious blend of pastel and sparkle. A professional manicurist would say they are a testament to sophistication meeting the playful side of summer. The alternating soft mint and blush tones are like the pastel-colored buildings lining a coastal promenade, while the golden accents are the treasures of the sand.

Photo credit by: @nailit_ec

• Consumables: Minty Fresh Gel Polish, Blush Pink Gel Polish, Gold Leaf Topper, High-Shine Top Coat.
• Brands: Mint Condition by Pastel Parade, Pink Sands by BlushWorthy, Gilded Flakes by GoldFinger Accents, Glassy Gloss Top Coat by SheenQueen.
• Recommendations: The gold leaf accents should be applied with a delicate touch, much like placing seashells on wet sand.

Achieving this designs beach allure involves painting alternate nails with mint and pink polish. Once semi-cured, add gold leaf flakes, then fully cure. Encase the design with a high-shine top coat for a lasting impression that whispers tales of summer colors and sands.

Pearlescent Tides

Imagine the delicate foam of sea waves captured on your nails – that’s the aura of these pearlescent beauties. They radiate the soft glow of the beach’s gentle side, with a touch of sophistication. The semi-transparent white base is reminiscent of the ocean’s froth, while the hints of iridescent silver bring to mind the shimmering surface of a calm sea. This design is a favorite for its understated elegance and connection to the ocean’s peaceful moments.

Photo credit by: @chloebeautyorlando

• Consumables: Sheer White Gel Polish, Silver Iridescent Flakes, Crystal Embellishments, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Whisper White by Naturale Nails, Silver Sheen by LuxeFoil, Diamond Sparkle Gems by Bling On, Glassy Finish Top Coat by LongLast.
• Recommendations: Place the crystal embellishments while the top coat is wet to ensure they adhere well, emulating the precious gems hidden in the sand.

Creating this design at home is like bottling the essence of the beach. Begin with a sheer white base. Gently press in the silver flakes, then add the crystal embellishments, echoing the treasures found in the summer beach. A high-gloss top coat ensures your nails catch the light with every graceful gesture.

Garden by the Shore

As if a beach garden party adorned your fingers, this manicure blends floral motifs with summer colors to create a vivid and charming tableau. The alternating colors reflect a meadow of wildflowers against a beach theme, while the gold leaf accents are like the sun’s reflections on the water. Each nail tells a story of summer blooms and lush greenery, perfect for a day under the sun or a balmy night out.

Photo credit by: @utopia_nails610

• Consumables: Garden Green Gel Polish, Rose Petal Pink Gel Polish, Floral Decals, Gold Leaf Topper, Matte Top Coat.
• Brands: Green Meadow by EarthTones, Pink Blossom by FloraNails, Wildflower Decals by PetalPress, Gilded Accents by OpulentLeaf, MattifyMe Top Coat by SatinTouch.
• Recommendations: For a lasting design, apply decals on a semi-cured base and seal with a matte top coat to contrast the shimmering gold.

To achieve this look, start with alternating base colors. Apply the decals carefully, using tweezers for precision. Add the gold leaf accents to bring a hint of beach designs luxury. A matte top coat gives a contemporary finish, marrying the beauty of a summer garden with the allure of the beach.

Sky Meets Sea

The interplay of sky blue and sandy beige in this design evokes the horizon where the clear summer sky kisses the sea. It’s a minimalistic approach to beach nails that speaks volumes with its simplicity and grace. The soft gradient mimics the serene transition of beach colors at dusk, making for a versatile look that can accompany any beachside outfit with aplomb.

Photo credit by: @aesthetic_outfitsideas

• Consumables: Sky Blue Gel Polish, Nude Gel Polish, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Celestial Blue by AzureWaves, Nude Beach by BarelyThere, ShineOn Top Coat by GlossBoss.
• Recommendations: Use a gentle hand when blending the colors to maintain the softness of the gradient, mirroring the tranquil blending of summer designs in the sky.

For a DIY approach, apply a nude base and let it semi-cure. Gently sponge on the blue polish, blending it downwards for that perfect gradient. A high-gloss top coat will capture the essence of a summer beach, sealing your nails with a kiss of the ocean breeze.

Sunshine and Smiles

Embrace the playful side of the beach with these bright and cheerful nails. The vibrant yellow conjures images of the warm sun, while the smiling faces add a dash of joy to any beach day. The contrast of bold black and white stripes gives a nod to the classic beach umbrellas dotting the shoreline. It’s a fun take on beach theme nails designs that can’t help but bring a smile to your face.

Photo credit by: @keratinlaboc

• Consumables: Sunny Yellow Gel Polish, Jet Black Gel Polish, Pure White Gel Polish, Smile Decals, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Solar Beam by SunSplash Nails, Midnight Ink by DeepShades, Snow White by PurePigments, HappyFace Decals by DecalMania, ShineBright Top Coat by MirrorGloss.
• Recommendations: Apply the smile decals with precision using a tweezer, and consider the black and white stripes for an accent nail for a balanced look.

Creating this look will require a steady hand for the stripes. Apply the sunny yellow as a base, then use thin nail tape to guide your black and white stripes. Place the smile decals last and finish with a high-gloss top coat for a summer nails look that’s as radiant as a day at the beach.

Ombre Waves

The soft gradient on these nails is reminiscent of the gentle caress of the sea’s waves at dawn. The muted tones of pink, blue, and white are like the pastel colors of the sky as it greets the day. This design speaks to the peaceful moments spent on the shore, with a dusting of glitter as the sunlight’s first sparkle on the ocean’s surface.

Photo credit by: @saffi_beauty

• Consumables: Dusky Pink Gel Polish, Dawn Blue Gel Polish, White Gel Polish, Iridescent Glitter, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Twilight Blush by EveningShades, Morning Sky by Daybreak Nails, Polar White by ArcticCoats, Starshine Glitter by GlitzN’Glam, Reflective Top Coat by ShineSheen.
• Recommendations: For the ombre effect, use a sponge to blend the colors seamlessly, and apply the glitter while the last color layer is still tacky.

To achieve this beach colors ombre at home, start with a white base. Sponge on the pink and blue to create a seamless transition. Sprinkle iridescent glitter for that beach designs summer morning sparkle and seal with a top coat for a glossy finish that will last through any beach adventure.

Tropical Florals

These nails are a vibrant expression of tropical flora and the clear blue skies of a perfect beach day. The bold greenery and lively floral patterns offer a breath of summer colors. It’s a design that’s both fresh and expressive, perfect for those who carry the essence of summer gardens with them.

Photo credit by: @ivaniasbeauty_miami

• Consumables: Sky Blue Gel Polish, Tropical Green Gel Polish, Floral Pink Gel Polish, Flower Decals, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Azure Escape by IslandHues, Jungle Green by TropicTones, Blossom Burst by FloralFancy, BloomStickers by FlowerPower, LastingShine Top Coat by EndureNails.
• Recommendations: The flower decals should be applied to semi-cured polish for a long-lasting finish, and a thin brush can be used for touch-ups around the edges.

To recreate this lush summer nails design, apply your base colors, then position the floral decals carefully onto the tacky surface. Use a thin brush for any needed detail work, and finish with a top coat for a vivid beach designs summer statement that lasts.

Majestic Marine Majesty

Dive into the depths of the ocean with these regal blue nails, where the boldness of cobalt meets the allure of marbled azure. The design is crowned with gold flakes and pearl-like beads, creating a look that’s nothing short of royal. It’s a testament to the majestic beauty found beneath the waves, perfect for anyone looking to make a statement with their beach nails.

Photo credit by: @oohlalanails.shrewsbury

• Consumables: Cobalt Blue Gel Polish, Azure Marble Ink, Gold Leaf Flakes, Pearl Beads, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Royal Blue by Monarch Nails, Ocean Swirl by InkFlow, Gold Fleck by TreasureTrove, PearlEssence by SeaGem, ClearVision Top Coat by PolishPro.
• Recommendations: The marbling ink should be used sparingly to create natural oceanic patterns, and the pearls placed with care to accentuate the luxuriousness.

To recreate this marine fantasy, start with a base of cobalt blue. For the marbling effect, drop azure ink onto the nail and use a fine brush to swirl. Gently press in the gold flakes and apply pearl beads along the cuticle line to mimic a treasure trove found in the summer sea. A high-gloss top coat will provide the durability needed for any beach-bound royalty.

Lavender Dreams

Envision the soft hues of a beach at twilight with these dreamy lavender-tipped nails. The translucent fade from nude to lavender speaks to the soft transition from day to night. It’s a subtle yet sophisticated choice that mirrors the summer sky’s changing palette, ideal for those who prefer their beach theme nails to whisper rather than shout.

Photo credit by: @conyers.noire

• Consumables: Lavender Gel Polish, Nude Gel Polish, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Lavender Haze by SoftShades, Nude Illusion by SkinMatch, GlossOver Top Coat by ShineMax.
• Recommendations: Apply the lavender polish in thin layers to achieve the perfect gradient, and use a clean brush to soften the transition.

Crafting these at home requires patience; apply the nude base, then layer the lavender at the tips, blending downward. A high-gloss top coat seals in the gradient, ensuring your beach designs summer nails stay pristine from dawn to dusk.

Golden Shoreline Accents

With a burst of summer colors, these nails are like a treasure map of the coast. The stark contrast between the crisp white and vibrant pink is softened by the oceanic blue, while the golden accents are the treasures that await at every cove. This design is for those who carry the warmth of the sun and the cool of the sea in their hearts.

Photo credit by: @indeiradeann

• Consumables: White Gel Polish, Pink Gel Polish, Ocean Blue Gel Polish, Gold Accents, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Snowdrift by PurestWhite, Flamingo Feather by TropicalTouch, Seabreeze Blue by AquaArt, GoldSplash Accents by GildedTouches, Everlast Top Coat by Duraplex.
• Recommendations: The gold accents should be placed with intention, representing the precious moments collected along summer beach escapades.

To bring these summer nails colors designs beach to life, alternate the white and pink as your base. Use blue for a bold statement nail, and once tacky, adorn with gold. Seal with a top coat for a lustrous finish that will carry you from sandy shores to evening soirees.

Wave Rhythm

The fluidity of the sea’s rhythm is beautifully captured in these nails, where swirls of blue and white mimic the rolling waves. Specks of gold leaf are scattered like sunlight dappling through the water’s surface. This design is reminiscent of a serene day by the shore, with each nail representing the movement of the sea set against a clear sky.

Photo credit by: @pearlnailsx

• Consumables: Sky Blue Gel Polish, White Gel Polish, Gold Leaf Flakes, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Azure Calm by SerenityNails, Whitecap Crest by OceanLuxe, Sunlit Sparkle by GoldenGlints, CrystalClear Top Coat by LastingLustre.
• Recommendations: The wave patterns should be drawn with a fine brush to capture the organic flow of the water, and the gold leaf applied with a delicate touch.

Creating these beach theme nails starts with a pale blue base, overlaid with white to craft the waves. Add touches of gold leaf to represent the glistening summer colors on the water, and seal with a top coat for a glossy finish that reflects the beauty of the beach.

Tropical Gradient

These nails are a bold celebration of tropical beach designs summer hues. The vibrant gradient from a rich blue to an effervescent green and sunny yellow captures the essence of the ocean meeting the beach. The bright colors are reminiscent of a fun day out at the sea, perfect for anyone looking to bring the energy of the tropics to their fingertips.

Photo credit by: @pearlnailsx

• Consumables: Ocean Blue Gel Polish, Lime Green Gel Polish, Sunshine Yellow Gel Polish, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: DeepSea Dive by BlueHaven, Citrus Burst by GreenGroves, Solar Flare by RadiantRays, UltraGloss Top Coat by SheerShine.
• Recommendations: Blend the colors while they are still wet to achieve a seamless gradient that looks like the horizon where sea meets sky.

To create this summer nails colors designs beach, apply the blue base and while it’s wet, blend in the green from the middle, transitioning to yellow at the tip. Finish with a top coat for a lasting vibrant look that’s as lively as a day spent soaking up the sun.

Fluid Art Fantasy

The enchantment of fluid art is on full display with these nails, showcasing an ethereal blend of purples, blues, and pinks in a marble-like pattern. The swirling design is as mesmerizing as the ocean’s own natural artistry, with a hint of iridescent shimmer that suggests the mysterious depths of the sea.

Photo credit by: @ivaniasbeauty_miami

• Consumables: Lilac Gel Polish, Royal Blue Gel Polish, Rose Pink Gel Polish, Iridescent Topper, Matte Top Coat.
• Brands: Lavender Whirl by PastelDreams, Regal Wave by RoyalNails, Blushing Tide by RosyHues, Mystic Shimmer by OpalescentOverlays, MatteMystery Top Coat by VelvetTouch.
• Recommendations: Use a swirling tool to gently mix the colors on the nail for that perfect fluid art look, and the iridescent topper to add a touch of magic.

At home, apply a nude base and dot on your colors. Swirl them together to create the marble effect. An iridescent topper adds depth, and a matte top coat finishes the look, bringing the designs beach summer to life in a unique and captivating way.

Aquatic Illusions

These nails carry the depth and mystery of the ocean. The marbled turquoise and white create an illusion of swirling sea foam and waves, with holographic details that glisten like the sea under the moonlight. This design is a deep dive into marine dreams, capturing the ocean’s vast beauty on each nail.

Photo credit by: @nailwitchkaren

• Consumables: Turquoise Gel Polish, White Gel Polish, Holographic Nail Film, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Turquoise Tempest by AquaInnovations, White Wash by CleanSlate, HoloDreams by SpectrumShine, Glossify by LustréLacquer.
• Recommendations: For a realistic sea foam effect, mix white and turquoise with a swirling motion and accentuate with pieces of holographic film for that iridescent touch.

To create these at home, layer a base of turquoise and gently swirl in white polish while still wet. Cut small pieces of holographic film and place them to catch the light, mimicking the reflections of the sun on the ocean surface. Finish with a high-gloss top coat for enduring beach designs summer brilliance.

Sandy Horizon Lines

The tranquil lines of blue and sandy beige on these nails represent a serene beach horizon. It’s a minimalist take on beach theme nails designs, capturing the calmness of the shore where the sea meets the sand. The metallic gold line serves as a horizon, adding an elegant touch that reflects the glow of a sunset.

Photo credit by: @miss_sophie_official

• Consumables: Sky Blue Gel Polish, Sand Beige Gel Polish, Metallic Gold Striping Tape, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Serene Sky by TranquilTints, Sandy Dunes by EarthToneNails, Golden Horizon by LuxeLines, TopShine by CrystalCoat.
• Recommendations: Use striping tape to create clean lines, which emulate the crisp horizon seen on a clear summer beach day.

Begin with a beige base, then apply the blue to the tips, using tape to keep lines sharp. Place the metallic gold striping tape where the colors meet, creating a beautiful horizon line. A top coat adds shine and longevity to your summer nails colors designs beach aesthetic.

Island Vibe Crescendo

With vibrant blue hues, calming whites, and intricate designs, these nails are a symphony of island life. Each nail tells a story of tropical seas, white sands, and intricate seashells. The blend of colors and patterns reflects the dynamic life of the coral reefs and the rhythmic motion of the waves.

Photo credit by: @pauline_glrdx

• Consumables: Bright Blue Gel Polish, White Gel Polish, Shell Decals, Glitter Accents, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Island Rhythm by TropicTones, Purest White by SimpleShades, SeaShell Stickers by OceanEmbellish, Reef Glitter by MarineGlitz, EverGleam by ShineSupreme.
• Recommendations: Apply decals carefully to mimic the natural beauty of seashells, and sprinkle glitter sparingly for a subtle sea-sparkle effect.

Start with a bright blue base, adding touches of white for waves. Strategically place shell decals and a touch of glitter to evoke the richness of the sea. Finish with a high-gloss top coat for a designs summer beach look that’s as enduring as it is enchanting.

Savannah Sunset

Evoking the wild beauty of the savannah, these nails feature a fierce leopard print that merges with the softness of a neutral base. The print, situated on the tips, is a bold statement that speaks of adventure and untamed elegance—perfect for a beach safari or a night out under the stars.

Photo credit by: @nailtique_enterprises

• Consumables: Neutral Beige Gel Polish, Black Gel Polish, Burnt Orange Gel Polish, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Earthtone Elegance by NaturalNudes, Onyx Eclipse by DarkMatters, Sunset Amber by WildHues, ShineSeal Top Coat by ProtectPro.
• Recommendations: For the leopard spots, use a dotting tool to create irregular shapes and border them partially with black for a realistic effect.

To recreate this design, begin with a neutral beige base. Use a dotting tool to add burnt orange spots, then create black borders for an authentic leopard print look. Seal with a high-gloss top coat for a striking summer nails colors designs beach that roars with style.

Cerulean Waves

These nails are a tribute to the tranquil and rhythmic waves that grace the shore. The soft sky blue and white design is simple yet profound, mimicking the gentle lapping of waves against the sand. It’s an embodiment of beach theme nails—peaceful, picturesque, and utterly soothing.

Photo credit by: @suziemoon626

• Consumables: Sky Blue Gel Polish, White Gel Polish, High-Gloss Top Coat.
• Brands: Azure Peace by SereneWaters, Whitecap Foam by CrestNCoast, MirrorGlaze Top Coat by GlossGenius.
• Recommendations: Use a thin brush to gently drag the white into the blue for a seamless, wave-like effect.

To achieve this serene look, paint a sky blue base and while it’s still wet, draw thin lines of white and gently pull them through the blue to create a wavelike design. Finish with a top coat for a glossy sheen that captures the essence of summer beach tranquility.

FAQ

Q: Can these designs withstand beach activities? A: Absolutely! With the proper base and top coat, your nails can be as resilient as they are beautiful, perfect for summer adventures.

Q: Are these designs beginner-friendly? A: Yes, with patience and practice, these designs are achievable. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries – the process is part of the fun!