Ever look at those Instagram-perfect beach waves and wonder, “How do some folks look like they just left the ocean—only way better?” If your attempts have ever ended up more poodle than cool-girl, welcome to the club.
Luckily, celebrity stylist and Britt Lower’s husband Kenna Kennor has great advice for beach waves that look and feel easy, never like you’ve spent an hour fighting your hair into submission.
So here’s Kenna’s real-talk, red carpet-to-real-life playbook for nailing those relaxed, sun-kissed waves. You don’t need a fancy salon or a stylist on speed dial—just a little patience, a few tweaks, and the right attitude.
Start With Prep: Healthy, Happy Hair Is Wave-Ready Hair
Kenna always says beachy hair begins long before you grab that curling iron. Waves hold best in hair that’s clean but not squeaky—aim for second-day hair or use a dry shampoo if you just washed. If your hair’s super clean and fine, mist in a bit of texture spray or sea salt spray while it’s still damp. This gives your locks some grip and makes them more likely to keep the bend.
He loves working a lightweight leave-in conditioner through the ends—keeps things soft, not crunchy.
The “No-Parts” Secret—Toss It, Don’t Paint by Numbers
The trickiest thing about beach waves? Looking like you weren’t trying too hard. Kenna recommends ditching your regular part. Flip it from side to side or just mess it up with your fingers. You want waves tumbling in different directions for a true lived-in feel. Perfection is the enemy.
Go Easy With Tools (Or Skip ‘Em Entirely)
Curling wands or flat irons are classics, but Kenna’s tip is to change barrel directions on each section. Alternate curls away and toward your face for that not-too-done look. And always leave the last inch or two out of the clamp—this keeps the ends beachy instead of prom-y.
Hate hot tools? Kenna is hugely pro-braids for lazy days—sleep with loose braids, unravel in the morning, hit with a diffuser, and you’re good.
Products: Less Crunch, More Flow
A little goes a long way. Kenna loves salt sprays or dry texture sprays but says never to drench your hair. Scrunch in product gently, then air dry or diffuse. If your ends feel dry, hit them with a drop of oil (rub it between your palms first so you don’t overdo it). His mantra? You should be able to run your hands through waves with zero resistance.
After-Care: Finish With a Fluff and a Smile
Kenna’s last brilliant tip? Flip your head forward, shake things out, and then lightly piece apart any stuck-in curls with your fingers. If you really want to make it pop, a final mist of lightweight flexible hairspray gives hold without feeling stiff. And here’s the real kicker—embrace the flyaways and random pieces!
More Than a Trend—A Vibe
Beach waves aren’t just a hairstyle—they’re a vibe. Casual, confident, a little bit wild, and always playful. With these pro-approved tips, you’re about five minutes from stealing that effortless, everyday-beach look—no ocean breeze required.