Explore 22 Simple Summer Beach Nail Ideas 2024: Trends, Designs & Inspiration

Ekaterina Zavalko 27 May 2024Last Updated: 27 May 2024

0 25 14 minutes read

Are you ready to embrace the vibrant and breezy vibes of summer 2024? Nail art is a perfect way to express your personality and creativity, especially when you’re hitting the beach. This year, the trends are all about simplicity, elegance, and a touch of fun. From elegant almond shapes to cute boho designs, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore some fabulous nail designs that are perfect for your summer beach look.

Ocean Waves Nail Art

Ocean waves nail art is a stunning choice for those who want to capture the essence of the beach right on their fingertips. This design features beautiful shades of blue and white, mimicking the soothing waves of the ocean. The fluid lines and gradient effect make it look like waves are gently crashing on your nails, creating a calming and elegant appearance.

Consumables:

Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
Blue nail polish: Essie in “Butler Please”
White nail polish: Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in “White On”

Thin nail art brush
Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: These specific brands provide excellent coverage and long-lasting wear, which are essential for a perfect beach nail look.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat to protect your natural nails.
2. Paint your nails with two coats of blue nail polish.
3. Use a thin nail art brush to create wavy lines with white nail polish.
4. Finish with a top coat to seal and add shine.

Elegant Beach Waves

Elegant beach waves nails combine sophistication with a touch of playfulness. This design features a nude base with light blue tips and delicate gold accents, reminiscent of shimmering waves under the sun. The simplicity of the design makes it perfect for any occasion, adding a hint of elegance to your beach outfit.

Consumables:

Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Basecoat

Nude nail polish: Zoya in “Chantal”
Light blue nail polish: China Glaze in “Boho Blues”
Gold glitter: CND Additives in “Antique Gold”

Thin nail art brush
Top coat: Essie Gel Couture Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: These products offer a smooth application and a luxurious finish that enhances the beach wave effect.

DIY Instructions:

1. Start with a base coat to ensure the durability of your manicure.
2. Apply two coats of nude nail polish.
3. Use a thin nail art brush to paint light blue tips.
4. Add gold glitter accents along the tips.
5. Seal with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Vibrant Sunset Nails

Nothing says summer like a vibrant sunset. This nail design features a gradient of orange and pink, capturing the breathtaking hues of a summer sunset. The addition of a small flower and checkerboard pattern adds a fun and playful element, perfect for those sunset beach parties.

Consumables:

Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Base and Top Coat
Orange nail polish: OPI in “A Good Man-Darin is Hard to Find”
Pink nail polish: Essie in “Mod Square”

Thin nail art brush
Flower nail stickers
Top coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: These shades provide a vibrant and smooth gradient, and the flower stickers add a perfect touch of summer fun.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat to start.
2. Create a gradient by sponging orange and pink nail polishes together.
3. Use a thin nail art brush to add checkerboard patterns.
4. Apply flower stickers for an added touch.
5. Finish with a top coat.

Tropical Palm Trees

Tropical palm trees nails bring a piece of paradise to your fingertips. With a vivid blue background and a palm tree accent, this design screams tropical vacation. It’s simple yet striking, making it a perfect choice for beachgoers who want a bit of island inspo.

Consumables:

Base coat: Butter London Nail Foundation Priming Basecoat
Blue nail polish: OPI in “Rich Girls & Po-Boys”

Black nail polish: Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy in “Black Jack”
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: CND Vinylux Long Wear Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The vivid blue and crisp black ensure the palm tree stands out beautifully against the background.

DIY Instructions:

1. Start with a base coat.
2. Apply two coats of blue nail polish.
3. Use a thin nail art brush to draw palm trees with black nail polish.
4. Seal with a top coat.

Green Vibes

Green vibes nails are perfect for those who love a pop of color. This design features a mix of green shades with a touch of black and white for contrast. The swirly patterns and mix of matte and glossy finishes add depth and interest, making it a trendy choice for summer 2024.

Consumables:

Base coat: Zoya Naked Manicure Base Coat
Light green nail polish: OPI in “How Does Your Zen Garden Grow?”
Dark green nail polish: Essie in “Off Tropic”

Black and white nail polishes: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Blacky O” and “Get Mod”
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: Seche Vive Instant Gel Effect Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The combination of different green shades and finishes creates a dynamic look that is both modern and stylish.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat.
2. Paint your nails with light and dark green polishes.
3. Use a thin nail art brush to create swirls with black and white polishes.
4. Finish with a top coat.

Shimmering Gradient Nails

Shimmering gradient nails bring a touch of magic to your summer beach look. This design features a smooth transition from deep blue to bright green, capturing the essence of a tropical ocean. The fine shimmer adds a dazzling effect that makes your nails sparkle under the sun.

Consumables:

Base coat: Essie Here to Stay
Blue nail polish: Zoya in “Mallory”
Green nail polish: China Glaze in “Highlight of My Summer”

Shimmer top coat: OPI in “Kyoto Pearl”
Sponge for gradient effect
Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: These products provide a seamless gradient and the shimmer top coat adds a captivating sparkle perfect for summer.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Use a sponge to create a gradient effect with blue and green nail polishes.
3. Apply a shimmer top coat for a sparkling finish.
4. Seal with a top coat to protect your design.

Tropical Paradise

The tropical paradise nail design transports you to an island getaway. This design features a neon yellow and green base with blue accents, complete with a detailed palm tree on the accent nail. The gradient and tiny black specks add depth and a sense of fun to this beach-inspired manicure.

Consumables:

Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Basecoat
Neon yellow nail polish: Essie in “Neon & On & On”
Green nail polish: OPI in “How Does Your Zen Garden Grow?”

Blue nail polish: Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in “Pacific Blue”
Black nail polish for details: Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy in “Black Jack”
Thin nail art brush

Top coat: Essie Gel Couture Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The neon shades and detailed palm tree create a vibrant and playful look, perfect for any beach vacation.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat to start.
2. Create a gradient with neon yellow, green, and blue polishes.
3. Use a thin brush to add black specks and a palm tree design.
4. Finish with a top coat for durability.

Neon Heartbeat

Neon heartbeat nails are perfect for those who love a bold and vibrant look. This design features a light pink base with neon yellow and pink accents, forming a heartbeat pattern and heart shape. The almond shape of the nails adds elegance to this fun and eye-catching design.

Consumables:

Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Base and Top Coat
Light pink nail polish: Essie in “Ballet Slippers”

Neon yellow nail polish: China Glaze in “Yellow Polka Dot Bikini”
Neon pink nail polish: OPI in “Hotter than You Pink”
Thin nail art brush

Top coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The combination of neon colors and the heartbeat design make this manicure a standout choice for summer.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat.
2. Paint your nails with light pink polish.
3. Use a thin brush to create neon yellow and pink accents in a heartbeat pattern.
4. Seal with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Peachy Pink Waves

Peachy pink waves are perfect for those who want a soft yet vibrant look. This design features a peach base with pink wavy lines, creating a playful and summery vibe. The almond shape of the nails adds a touch of elegance to this fun design.

Consumables:

Base coat: Butter London Nail Foundation Priming Basecoat
Peach nail polish: Zoya in “Cole”

Pink nail polish: Essie in “Mod Square”
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: CND Vinylux Long Wear Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The combination of peach and pink creates a cheerful and bright look, perfect for summer days.

DIY Instructions:

1. Start with a base coat.
2. Apply two coats of peach nail polish.
3. Use a thin brush to add pink wavy lines.
4. Finish with a top coat for a long-lasting shine.

Pink Elegance

Pink elegance nails are perfect for those who love a classy and refined look. This design features a light pink base with white and silver swirls, adding a touch of sparkle and sophistication. The almond shape of the nails enhances the elegant look of this design.

Consumables:

Base coat: Zoya Naked Manicure Base Coat
Light pink nail polish: OPI in “Bubble Bath”
White nail polish: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Get Mod”

Silver glitter polish: Essie in “Set in Stones”
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: Seche Vive Instant Gel Effect Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The light pink base and silver swirls create a delicate and sophisticated look, perfect for any occasion.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat.
2. Paint your nails with light pink polish.
3. Use a thin brush to add white and silver swirls.
4. Seal with a top coat for a polished finish.

Gemstone-Inspired Nails

Gemstone-inspired nails are a breathtaking way to bring the beauty of nature to your manicure. This design features a stunning mix of green, purple, and blue shades, resembling the look of precious gemstones. The intricate marbling effect and glossy finish make these nails a true work of art.

Consumables:

Base coat: Essie Here to Stay
Green nail polish: Zoya in “Talia”
Purple nail polish: OPI in “Do You Lilac It?”

Blue nail polish: China Glaze in “Too Yacht to Handle”
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: These polishes create a rich and vibrant marbling effect that mimics the beauty of gemstones, making this design perfect for a sophisticated summer look.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Use a thin brush to create marbling effects with green, purple, and blue polishes.
3. Blend the colors gently to achieve a smooth transition.
4. Finish with a top coat to add a glossy shine.

Neon Sunshine

Neon sunshine nails are all about bright, bold colors that scream summer. This design features a vibrant yellow base with accent nails showcasing intricate designs in purple and gold. The combination of neon and metallic elements makes these nails a standout choice for any beach day.

Consumables:

Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Basecoat
Neon yellow nail polish: Essie in “Neon & On & On”
Purple nail polish: Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in “Violet Voltage”
Gold foil: Born Pretty Gold Foil Sheets
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: Essie Gel Couture Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The neon yellow paired with purple and gold accents creates a fun and lively look that’s perfect for summer parties.

DIY Instructions:

1. Start with a base coat.
2. Paint your nails with neon yellow polish.
3. Use a thin brush to add purple accents and apply gold foil.
4. Finish with a top coat for a lasting shine.

Pastel Polka Dots

Pastel polka dots nails bring a playful and cheerful vibe to your manicure. This design features a mix of pastel shades with small gold polka dots, adding a touch of whimsy and elegance. The short square shape keeps the look neat and stylish, perfect for any casual summer outing.

Consumables:

Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Base and Top Coat
Pastel yellow nail polish: OPI in “Sun, Sea, and Sand in My Pants”
Pastel pink nail polish: Essie in “Fiji”
Pastel blue nail polish: Zoya in “Blu”
Gold dotting tool: Nail Art Dotting Tool
Top coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The combination of pastel shades and gold dots creates a cute and classy look, ideal for a sunny day at the beach.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat.
2. Paint your nails with pastel polishes.
3. Use a dotting tool to add gold polka dots.
4. Seal with a top coat for durability.

Neon Checkered Nails

Neon checkered nails are perfect for those who love a bold and vibrant look. This design features a mix of neon purple and green, creating a striking checkered pattern. The bright colors and geometric shapes make these nails a fun and trendy choice for summer 2024.

Consumables:

Base coat: Butter London Nail Foundation Priming Basecoat
Neon purple nail polish: China Glaze in “That’s Shore Bright”
Neon green nail polish: Essie in “Viva Green”
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: CND Vinylux Long Wear Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The neon colors and checkered pattern create a dynamic and eye-catching look, perfect for making a bold statement.

DIY Instructions:

1. Start with a base coat.
2. Paint your nails with neon purple polish.
3. Use a thin brush to create a checkered pattern with neon green polish.
4. Finish with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Geometric Neon Nails

Geometric neon nails combine bold colors with striking patterns. This design features a light pink base with neon orange and pink geometric shapes. The short square shape of the nails adds a modern and clean look, making this design perfect for those who love contemporary styles.

Consumables:

Base coat: Zoya Naked Manicure Base Coat
Light pink nail polish: OPI in “Bubble Bath”
Neon orange nail polish: Essie in “Tart Deco”
Neon pink nail polish: Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in “Pucker Up”
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: Seche Vive Instant Gel Effect Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The geometric shapes and neon colors create a bold and fashionable look, ideal for those who want to make a statement.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat.
2. Paint your nails with light pink polish.
3. Use a thin brush to add neon geometric shapes.
4. Seal with a top coat for a polished finish.

Pastel Ombre Nails

Pastel ombre nails are a beautiful and subtle way to showcase the soft colors of summer. This design features a gradient transition from light pink to lavender, creating a delicate and elegant look. The glossy finish adds a polished touch, making these nails perfect for any occasion.

Photo credit by: @alessiajuglan.nailinstructor

Consumables:

Base coat: Essie Here to Stay
Light pink nail polish: OPI in “Bubble Bath”
Lavender nail polish: Essie in “Lilacism”
Sponge for gradient effect
Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The smooth transition between pastel shades and the glossy finish create a sophisticated and timeless look, ideal for summer 2024.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Use a sponge to create a gradient effect with light pink and lavender polishes.
3. Blend the colors gently to achieve a smooth transition.
4. Finish with a top coat to add a glossy shine.

Neon French Tips with Cow Print

Neon French tips with cow print combine fun and boldness. This design features neon green tips on a nude base, with accent nails showcasing a trendy cow print. The mix of bright colors and unique patterns makes these nails a standout choice for summer.

Consumables:

Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Basecoat
Neon green nail polish: Essie in “Viva Green”
Black and white nail polishes: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Blacky O” and “Get Mod”
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: Essie Gel Couture Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The neon green and cow print combination is both trendy and playful, perfect for making a statement at the beach.

DIY Instructions:

1. Start with a base coat.
2. Paint your nails with a nude polish.
3. Use a thin brush to create neon green French tips and cow print accents.
4. Finish with a top coat for durability.

Tropical Safari Nails

Tropical safari nails are a mix of vibrant colors and animal prints. This design features a blend of pink, orange, and blue with zebra and leopard patterns, creating a fun and adventurous look. The bright colors and bold prints make these nails perfect for a tropical getaway.

Consumables:

Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Base and Top Coat
Pink nail polish: OPI in “Pink Flamenco”
Orange nail polish: Essie in “Tangerine Tease”
Blue nail polish: Zoya in “Blu”
Black and white nail polishes: Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy in “Black Jack” and “Sure Thing”
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The combination of bright colors and animal prints creates a bold and exciting look, perfect for adventurous spirits.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat.
2. Paint your nails with pink, orange, and blue polishes.
3. Use a thin brush to add zebra and leopard patterns.
4. Seal with a top coat for a lasting shine.

Pink Ombre Nails

Pink ombre nails are elegant and feminine, perfect for those who love a soft and romantic look. This design features a gradient transition from light pink to a deeper pink, with a touch of floral accents on one nail. The almond shape enhances the delicate and chic appearance.

Photo credit by: @elzbieta_laszewska_instruktor

Consumables:

Base coat: Butter London Nail Foundation Priming Basecoat
Light pink nail polish: OPI in “Mod About You”
Deep pink nail polish: Essie in “Mademoiselle”
Floral nail stickers
Sponge for gradient effect
Top coat: CND Vinylux Long Wear Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The pink ombre and floral accents create a delicate and charming look, perfect for a romantic summer evening.

DIY Instructions:

1. Start with a base coat.
2. Use a sponge to create a gradient effect with light and deep pink polishes.
3. Apply floral stickers on one nail for an accent.
4. Finish with a top coat for a polished finish.

Pastel Rainbow Nails

Pastel rainbow nails are all about soft colors and a fun, cheerful vibe. This design features a mix of pastel shades, creating a subtle rainbow effect. The short square shape keeps the look neat and stylish, making these nails perfect for any casual summer outing.

Photo credit by: @latelieroboutdesongles

Consumables:

Base coat: Zoya Naked Manicure Base Coat
Pastel pink nail polish: Essie in “Fiji”
Pastel orange nail polish: OPI in “Sun, Sea, and Sand in My Pants”
Pastel yellow nail polish: China Glaze in “Lemon Fizz”
Top coat: Seche Vive Instant Gel Effect Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The pastel shades create a soft and harmonious look, perfect for those who love a cheerful and light-hearted style.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat.
2. Paint each nail with a different pastel shade.
3. Seal with a top coat for durability.

Mint Green French Tips

Mint green French tips bring a fresh and modern twist to a classic nail design. This look features a light mint green tip on a nude base, with accent nails displaying an inverted French tip design. The combination of mint green and nude creates a clean and sophisticated look, perfect for any summer occasion.

Consumables:

Base coat: Essie Here to Stay
Mint green nail polish: OPI in “How Does Your Zen Garden Grow?”
Nude nail polish: Essie in “Ballet Slippers”
Thin nail art brush
Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The mint green and nude combination is refreshing and elegant, making it a great choice for both casual and formal summer events.

DIY Instructions:

1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Paint your nails with a nude polish.
3. Use a thin brush to create mint green French tips and inverted French tips on accent nails.
4. Finish with a top coat to add a glossy shine.

Iridescent Ocean Nails

Iridescent ocean nails are a stunning way to capture the mesmerizing colors of the sea. This design features a gradient of blue and purple shades with iridescent flakes, creating a magical and ethereal effect. The combination of colors and sparkle makes these nails perfect for a beach vacation.

Consumables:

Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Basecoat
Blue nail polish: Zoya in “Blu”
Purple nail polish: China Glaze in “That’s Shore Bright”
Iridescent flakes: Born Pretty Iridescent Nail Flakes
Sponge for gradient effect
Top coat: Essie Gel Couture Top Coat

Author’s Opinion: The gradient of blue and purple with iridescent flakes creates a mesmerizing look that captures the beauty of the ocean, making these nails perfect for summer.

DIY Instructions:

1. Start with a base coat.
2. Use a sponge to create a gradient effect with blue and purple polishes.
3. Apply iridescent flakes while the polish is still tacky.
4. Finish with a top coat to seal in the flakes and add shine.