Automatic curlers make uniform, defined curls — which is exactly what beach waves are not. The trick is to curl, then deliberately undo: alternate directions, keep the ends straighter and break everything up once it has cooled.
- Step-by-step for beach waves
- Variations and common mistakes
- Works with cordless tools — no socket needed
Tutorial card
- Time: 15–20 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best hair length: Collarbone to mid-back
- Tools: cordless automatic curler, classic cordless straightener
Why beach waves need a different approach
Beach waves read as effortless because they're uneven: some pieces bend more than others, the ends stay looser and nothing lines up. A tool that produces perfect, matching curls needs a little help to look this relaxed.
Larger sections than usual, a lower setting and a firm finger-break at the end get you there.
What you need
- The cordless automatic curler
- The classic cordless straightener
- Heat protectant
- Sectioning clips
- A wide-tooth comb
Curlylooks Cordless Automatic CurlerFrom €32.99View productHow to do beach waves: step by step
- Prep with texture. On dry, detangled hair, apply heat protectant and a light texture or sea-salt-style spray (let it dry fully).
- Section loosely. Clip the top half away. Beach waves don't need perfect partings — rough sections are fine.
- Use medium sections. Slightly larger than for defined curls, but still small enough to enter the chamber cleanly.
- Alternate the curl direction. Towards the face, then away, then towards. This stops curls merging into ringlets.
- Leave the last few centimetres out. Start the curl a little higher so the ends stay straighter — the signature of beach waves.
- Cool, then break. Once completely cool, rake your fingers through from the roots and shake out the hair.
- Flatten the ends. Run the straightener once over any ends that curled too much.
- Finish. A light texture spray and a scrunch — skip strong-hold hairspray.
Variations to try
- Half-up beach waves: Twist the front sections back and pin loosely.
- Tucked waves: Tuck one side behind the ear for asymmetry.
- Textured ponytail: Wave first, then gather into a low, loose ponytail.
Common mistakes and quick fixes
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Waves look like ringlets | Alternate directions and break curls up with fingers once cool |
| Ends are too curly | Start the curl higher or flatten ends with a straightener |
| Waves fall flat by noon | Use texture spray and let curls cool completely before breaking |
Curlylooks Cordless Automatic Curler
€32.99
Blush pinkIvory whiteCharcoal blackAdjustable curl direction
Ceramic-coated chamber, adjustable temperature and curl direction, USB rechargeable — and it wraps the hair for you.
For beach waves, use the curl-direction setting to alternate sections — that's what keeps the texture uneven and natural.
✦ Pairs well with: Texture spray · The classic straightener for straight ends
Best for: Holidays, weekends, summer hair, second-day texture
Three ways to start
Get the kit for beach waves
Just this look
The cordless automatic curler is all you need for beach waves.
Curls and polish
Curl, then smooth the ends and front pieces — the Curl & Polish bundle puts both tools together.
Every look in this series
The Complete Collection covers all our tutorials: the curler plus both cordless straighteners.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get beach waves with an automatic curler?
Yes. Alternate curl directions, leave the ends straighter and break the curls up with your fingers once they have cooled.
Which hair length is best for beach waves?
Collarbone to mid-back length shows the texture best, but bobs can take a softer version.
Do I need a texture spray?
It helps a lot on soft or freshly washed hair, giving waves grip and that matte, beachy finish.
Try it with cordless tools
Cordless, USB-rechargeable curler and straighteners — style anywhere, no socket needed.
Shop all styling tools →See the bundles →Keep reading
Safety note: heat tools get hot. Always follow the operating and safety instructions supplied with your device, use on dry hair only, keep heated parts away from skin and scalp, switch off after use and store out of reach of children.
