40 Trending Surfer Haircut For Men’s & How to Get Cool Look

If you’ve ever wanted a surfer haircut that embodies that cool, casual aesthetic, you’re not alone. The surfer hairstyle has become a symbol of the relaxed, adventurous, natural spirit that comes from spending days by the ocean. What makes it so attractive is how it feels like a low-maintenance style but still looks effortlessly good. With longer layered hair that adds texture, volume, and flow, this look captures that sun-kissed, salty beach energy everyone loves. It’s all about achieving perfect windswept look vibes that remind you of beach waves, sun-bleached highlights, and the carefree spirit that defines the coastline.

I’ve seen how stylish beach-inspired hairstyles can pair perfectly with tan skin and that touch of fearless athleticism surfers are known for. Whether you go for medium-length curtains, messy short curls, or luscious locks, these versatile and stylish haircuts offer freedom to express a free-spirited attitude. Over the years, I’ve helped guys explore the best surfer haircuts that show off their personal style while keeping that relaxed vibe intact. The classic and modern looks of Men’s surfer hairstyles are synonymous with effortless style, and in 2025, they’re still evolving — expertly blending timeless beachy texture with a touch of modern flair like cleaner fades and subtly defined natural textures.

When you’re aiming for various styles, from classic surfer style to something edgier, the right haircut gives you a perfect canvas. Think of straight hair as a great foundation for movement, while men with straight hair also have plenty of options to find their next perfect look. Whether you’re opting for something laid-back or a polished refined look, this guide to the best Men’s Surfer Hairstyles for 2025 will help you find what suits your face shape and lifestyle. So before you hit the waves, figuratively or literally, take a look at what’s on our radar—these iconic surfer hairstyles have truly made a comeback, and they’re perfectly capturing that effortlessly cool style we’re all chasing right now.

What is a Surfer Hairstyle?

A Surfer hairstyle is all about effortlessly tousled hair that gives off a laid-back attitude and feels naturally shaped by the beach breeze. It’s the kind of beachy-inspired hairstyle that makes you think of sun-kissed skin, tanned skin, and an adventurous lifestyle. The look usually comes from longer layers with choppy ends, creating a textured and carefree shape that adds movement, volume, and flow. Think tousled flowing hair, messy curls, or long beachy waves that look like they’ve been air-dried by the ocean. A simple side part or a bedhead look keeps it casual and easy to manage, while still giving that signature beach-inspired look that feels relaxed but confident.

From my experience, the secret to getting this look right is using texturising styling products like sea salt spray, clay, paste, or even a curl-enhancing cream to define the natural waves and texture. These texturizing hair styling products help you achieve the same effortless finish without spending hours with hair styling tools. It’s a style that mirrors athletic skill and outdoor energy while staying stylish and natural, making it perfect for anyone who wants to look good without trying too hard.

Popular Short Surfer Haircuts for Men

Here are some popular short surfer haircuts for men, easygoing, low-maintenance, and naturally textured styles that work great with salt, sun, and waves.

Crew Cut

The Crew Cut gives a modern take on the classic surfer look, perfect for those who love a clean, simple, and low-maintenance hairstyle. It’s a short, easy to maintain cut that works well with straight hair or slightly wavy hair. What makes it special is how it mixes a structured, neat style with a relaxed beachy vibe, creating a casual layered look that still feels fresh and attractive. The tousled crew cut adds a touch of personality, turning a basic cut into something playful and fun, like a blank canvas you can shape to match your mood.

To get that beach-inspired finish, I like to add texture with a bit of matte pomade and tousle the top for a wet or dry finish depending on the occasion. The secret lies in keeping it simple but full of movement, almost like the soft breeze from the salty sea styling your hair for you. It’s a clean structured look that still manages to capture that effortless surfer charm, no matter where you are.

Crew Cut Fade

The Crew Cut Fade is a simple elegant and practical choice for anyone who wants a contemporary style that looks sharp without much effort. It’s designed for busy men who appreciate minimal styling but still want a polished look. With neatly trimmed styled hair on top and a skin fade along the sides and back, this cut creates a clean, modern contrast that feels both professional and stylish.

From my experience, pairing the crew cut fade with a full beard gives a balanced appearance that enhances your features while keeping everything neat and defined. It’s a cut that works just as well at the office as it does on a weekend at the beach, offering a timeless blend of precision and ease.

Buzz Cut

The Buzz Cut brings a classic bleached-blonde buzz cut to life with an effortless, chic twist that feels like pure freedom. It’s the ultimate low-maintenance haircut—a no-fuss look that suits all hair types and perfectly captures that relaxed surfer feel. This minimalist take on surfer style works especially well for guys who love simplicity but still want a simple yet stylish edge. When the short hair catches the light, the golden blonde tone almost glows, reflecting sunlight like the ocean itself.

From my own experience, this cut pairs beautifully with a clean-shaven face for a high impact look or a stubbly beard for a brawny appearance. Whether you’re in or out of the water, it’s the hairstyle of least resistance, giving off an easygoing vibe that’s bold yet effortless. It’s the kind of surfer haircut that proves simplicity can be the strongest statement of all.

Short Messy Waves

Short messy waves are perfect for men who want a versatile and striking style that offers ample volume and texture without much effort. Whether you have longer hair or shorter hair on the sides and back, this look gives you that carefree, beach-ready vibe that defines the modern surfer aesthetic. The fringe often falls naturally across the forehead, framing the face while keeping a laid-back charm. From my experience, a touch of sea salt spray on wet hair helps separate and define strands, creating that windswept, natural feel we all love.

This quick, low-maintenance, and effortless style works beautifully for short to medium-length hair with natural waves or a bit of light curling. Adding caramel highlights can boost definition, giving depth and sun-kissed warmth to your look. It’s the go-to option when you want that just rolled out of bed look that still feels intentional, a style that brings the easy surfer look to life with minimal styling and maximum appeal.

Wavy Textured Crop

The Wavy textured crop is a simple, attractive haircut that works well for most hair types and face shapes. It’s a short cut that highlights your natural wave pattern while keeping a clean, fresh finish. A subtle taper on the sides paired with a short beard helps frame the face and balance length perfectly. This is the modern edgy version of a classic surfer haircut, offering a low-maintenance way to show off your natural texture and movement without much effort.

In my experience, this look suits both straight hair and wavy hair and is incredibly easy to maintain with minimal styling. It works even if you used to have long hair, as it still adds texture and keeps a hint of that beachy style everyone loves. It’s the kind of haircut that looks relaxed yet refined, making it ideal for men who want to look good without trying too hard.

Textured Skin Fade

The Textured Hairstyle with skin fade is a clean-cut version of surfer hair that blends combining sharp sides with a messy, sun-dried top for that effortless windswept look. It’s a modern style with a low-maintenance edge, perfect for guys who like a tight fresh appearance that still feels laid-back. The high-contrast fade gives structure, while the textured top adds movement and depth, creating a textured beach-ready finish that looks as good in the city as it does by the ocean.

From my experience, this cut works best for thick hair or coarse hair because it holds shape throughout the day. A light mist of sea salt spray followed by a touch of dry wax helps define the texture without adding stiffness. The result is a cool, easygoing style that looks natural, confident, and perfectly in tune with the surfer vibe.

Curly Quiff

The Curly quiff is a statement look that combines volume and texture for a bold quiff with a fresh surfer-inspired style. It’s ideal for curly hair and delivers a bold beach-ready look that truly stands out. The beauty of this style is how it embraces your natural curl pattern, creating a striking defined look that feels confident and effortlessly cool. With medium hair or thick curly hair, the quiff adds height and movement without losing its laid-back surfer charm.

From my own experience, the secret to mastering this look is using a light product to hold shape while keeping curls soft and natural. It’s not about over-styling. It’s about enhancing what’s already there and letting the texture do the talking. The curly quiff perfectly balances structure and freedom, giving you a modern surfer edge that’s both relaxed and refined.

Short Curls

Bleached blonde short curls bring that true salt life energy with their sun-kissed yellow hue and distinct separation between strands. The style looks best when kept slightly longer on the top with neatly trimmed sides and back, allowing the fringe to fall naturally for that relaxed beach vibe. From my experience, keeping curls healthy after the bleaching process is key—hydration and care make all the difference in maintaining bounce and shine.

To keep the curls defined yet soft, I recommend using styling products like mousse or curl cream to maintain definition without stiffness. Always dry gently and keep the hair deep conditioned to protect from damage and preserve the texture. This look gives a natural surfer confidence that feels easy, effortless, and full of life.

Tight Bedhead Curls

Tight bedhead curls are perfect for guys who want a natural textured look that feels beachy yet polished. This cool surfer hairstyle gives off a fresh and effortless vibe while keeping a neat, clean finish. It works beautifully for curly hair, especially short curly hair, where the volume and texture stand out without needing much effort. From what I’ve seen, it’s the kind of style that fits into any routine and still manages to look put together.

The best part about this look is how it suits all curl types and remains low maintenance. It’s incredibly easy to style, just let the curls dry naturally to enhance their natural texture. The result is a soft, clean finish that feels relaxed and beach-inspired while still sharp enough for any occasion.

Popular Medium-Length Surfer Haircuts

Here are some of the most popular medium-length surfer haircuts for men: laid-back, sun-kissed styles that sit right between beach casual and stylishly rugged.

Medium Length Wavy Hair

Medium length wavy hair perfectly reflects the core surfer lifestyle with its natural texture and relaxed movement. It has that effortless cool every surfer look aims for, combining volume, flow, and a loose, carefree vibe that feels alive and natural. The natural waves and medium density create an easy-going look that shapes itself without too much work. I’ve always found this style to be one of the most genuine representations of surf culture because it embraces imperfection while maintaining a natural rhythm and fullness.

With minimal styling, all it takes is a bit of sea salt spray and a good air dry routine to bring out that authentic surfer texture. It’s a zero fuss haircut that lets your personality and movement do the talking. Whether you’re by the ocean or in the city, this look feels fresh, real, and effortlessly balanced.

Medium Length Straight Hair

Medium length straight hair delivers a clean surfer look that’s simple yet eye-catching. It gives you enough length to show movement and texture without looking too polished. The versatile, low-fuss style works best when your hair flows naturally, just brushing the shoulders, creating that casual beach energy. From my experience, this style shines with straight medium-density hair, where it can fall gracefully with a natural lift that adds shape and life.

Keep it easy with minimal styling and a touch of lightweight product to prevent flatness while keeping a fresh, sun-dried finish. It’s a subtle yet effective way to maintain control without losing that relaxed flow. This is the kind of surfer look that moves freely in the wind and still lands perfectly in place.

Blonde Medium Curtains

Blonde medium curtains are a timeless surfer favorite, known for their tousled short cut and sultry windblown look. The beach-inspired vibe comes from long layers in the front that fall gracefully on each side, framing the face just right. Feathered bangs help blend the sides and back, creating smooth transitions that move naturally. I’ve always liked how the ample highlights add warmth, enhance the feathery appearance, and make the style glow under sunlight.

To style, apply sea salt spray to damp hair and add volume as you let it textur naturally. The goal is a free-flowing cut that feels lived-in, soft, and naturally sun-kissed. It’s light, touchable, and full of motion—perfect for anyone chasing that classic surfer curtain look.

Messy Combed Over Hair

The messy combed-over men’s surfer hairstyle is both stylish and trendy, giving off that effortless surfer charm. With fine tresses and careful layering, it adds depth and stacking for a fuller, more voluminous appearance. The subtle tousled styling brings out the beachy, windblown appearance that defines laid-back surf culture.

This look works well for men who prefer something modern but still relaxed. It’s easy to wear and always looks fresh without much effort. With the right touch of product and a natural hand, the result is casual yet confident—perfect for that beach-inspired lifestyle.

Modern Quiff

The modern quiff is a textured, trendy style that maximizes natural volume and flow while keeping a sleek, polished finish. It’s great for thick hair, lifting from the hairline and moving upward and over to add shape. The tapered sides and back create a subdued transition, giving the overall look balance and structure.

This style pairs nicely with mere stubble near the ear or a thick full beard for a bold, attractive, and captivating look. It’s a go-to choice for anyone who wants something professional yet relaxed, with a touch of surfer-inspired freedom.

Comb Over Taper Fade

The comb over taper fade is a textured, tousled approach to an iconic classic men’s style that suits various hair types. The deep side part and longer hair on top flow over a tapered undercut, giving the illusion of more volume and body. It’s both sharp and natural, keeping that easy surfer flow.

For styling, use a semi-shiny styling product or a high-quality pomade to comb up and over the part. This adds gentle structure without taking away the relaxed feel. The result is a balanced style that bridges clean precision with effortless surfer appeal.

Brush Forward with Undercut

The brush forward with undercut look is perfect for men with naturally soft, tight curls or longer hair in the front that falls slightly over the forehead. The ringlets give life and movement, while the length slowly gets shorter toward the crown, creating a smooth blend. The short undercut underneath helps balance length and volume on top, keeping the style lightweight and refined.

Adding thick caramel highlights can amplify texture and define the curls, making them pop. Pairing this with a clean-shaven face gives a youthful, approachable aura that feels natural and confident. It’s a look that captures the easy energy of the beach while staying modern and fresh.

Popular  Long Surfer Hairstyles

Here are some popular long surfer hairstyles for men with relaxed, naturally flowing looks that capture that carefree, ocean-worn vibe while still being stylish.

Long Wavy Hair

Long wavy hair paired with a thick full beard epitomizes masculinity and adds a sense of brawn and confidence. When kept all one length, the hair waves fuller and looks more uniform, creating a natural surfer charm. Using matte pomade gives a soft finish, keeping the flow controlled yet relaxed. This style perfectly suits men who love a rugged yet laid-back beach-inspired look that still feels natural and strong.

To style, apply sea salt spray to damp hair to texturizes and separates strands, then scrunch damp hair and air dry to maximize effect. The right product makes all the difference, giving your hair the natural movement that defines surfer confidence and beach freedom.

Classic Beachy Waves

Beachy waves are the epitome surfer hair, combining natural, effortless texture with minimal effort. This look brings a laid-back look full of plenty character and that iconic sun-kissed texture. The natural soft waves embody relaxed vibe, making it one of the most timeless styles for medium to long hair lengths.

To maintain that beach glow, use a light texturizing spray or sea salt spray to keep the low-maintenance feel while focusing on texture, not perfection. The result is soft, touchable hair that feels lived-in and naturally styled, perfect for any surfer at heart.

Long Straight Hair

Long straight hair delivers a sleek, polished surfer look with a smooth finish that never goes out of style. It’s the ultimate men’s surfer hairstyle, offering a beachy vibe and a clean, refined appearance that balances strength and subtlety.

This minimalist look benefits from light styling to add volume and texture, creating a clean yet relaxed finish. Best suited for medium to thick hair, it’s simple to maintain and easy to style for that effortless coastal look.

Long Curly Hair

Curly hair takes on a whole new dimension with a surfer-inspired style. The natural curls with a beachy twist are the ultimate way to showcase hair’s texture, giving a relaxed, free-spirited vibe that highlights natural curl patterns.

This carefree style works for both short and long curly hair, using a light product for curl definition that offers volume, movement, and a beach-ready look. It’s expressive, wild, and full of energy, just like the waves that inspired it.

Long Loose Curls

Medium-to-long hair with long layers and loose curls gives off serious surfer vibes. This look has a natural, tousled look that feels authentic and easy.

It’s perfect for anyone wanting a soft yet bold surfer aesthetic. The curls move freely, adding natural volume and texture that make the whole style look spontaneous but well-kept.

Long Flowing Hair

A bold combination, long flowing hair with a sharp undercut adds a modern twist to the classic surfer look. It’s perfect for men who want to add structure and an edgy feel to their beachy style.

The sharp contrast between the top and sides gives a refined edgy feel while maintaining a relaxed look. With thick voluminous hair, this is ideal for long hair lovers who enjoy a low-maintenance style with attitude.

Long Flowing Blonde Hair

Long flowing blonde hair often develops natural dreads after long exposed salt water sessions. Over a long time, twisting and teasing hair can speed process, giving it a sun-faded charm.

Adding platinum blonde highlights enhances visual separation, helping each strand stand out. Combined with facial hair, it creates a dynamic appearance that helps frame face beautifully.

Long Hair with Undercut

A bold combination of long flowing hair on top with a sharp undercut gives a modern twist to a classic surfer look. It’s perfect for men wanting to add structure and an edgy feel to their beachy style.

The sharp contrast between top and sides gives a refined edgy feel and relaxed look. With thick voluminous hair, it’s a great pick for long hair lovers who prefer a low-maintenance style that still stands out.

Long Hair with Middle Part

A middle part adds symmetry to long hair and creates a relaxed beachy vibe that stays intact throughout the day. This classic surfer style works well with most face shapes and hair textures, offering balanced, natural flow for both straight hair and wavy hair.

With minimal styling required, a good comb can create the perfect line for a versatile look that fits casually or in a more polished setting. It’s the perfect mix of natural movement and easy-going style.

Surfer Curtains

Surfer curtains feature longer front layers that styled frame face for a soft flowing look. This classic cut, revamped modern times, is a great choice for those who love relaxed beachy feel with a touch nostalgia.

It features longer front layers with a natural part and works best on medium to long hair. The classic surfer look with a modern twist offers volume, texture, and minimal effort, making it ideal for everyday wear.

Long Comb Over

The long comb over is a fresh, stylish look with multifaceted color and stunning flow. The hair flows up and over with a deep subtle side part, and the hairline gradually gets shorter toward the crown with a scissored taper on the sides and back to balance thickness and volume.

With many layers, this cut works best for straight thick hair or surfer hair, creating a polished edge and laid-back feel. The clean structured look, subtle movement, and beach-ready texture make it adaptable for both casual beach days and more refined settings. Use light hold cream or pomade to maintain shape without stiffness.

Long Slicked-Back Hair

Long slicked back hair delivers controlled surfer look without losing laid-back beach attitude. It’s great for men who want keep length while maintaining style direction and strength.

It works best for straight or wavy medium-to-long hair, and it’s ideal showing off natural sheen and texture. After a swim, this look adds structure while keeping style relaxed beach-ready. Use a lightweight styling cream to maintain shape without stiffness.

Long Wavy Fringe

Bangs give this style perfect balance for adding surfer flair with a loose wavy texture. The long fringe frames the face and adds a laid-back carefree look that instantly feels natural and coastal.

It’s perfect bringing beach everyday, offering a relaxed motion and soft shape. The long wavy fringe makes this style casual yet artistic, ideal for those who love that effortless surfer attitude.

Popular Messy & Textured Styles

Here are some of the most popular messy and textured hairstyles for men: casual, versatile looks that balance effortless style with just the right amount of structure.

Tousled Shag Style

The tousled shag is a nod to the throwback 1970s, known for its layered textured finish and effortless charm. It’s the go-to look for men who want a messy beachy surfer style without much effort. This cut is all about embracing natural chaos, allowing your hair to move freely and form its own flow. Whether you have wavy hair or straight hair, this style adds movement and texture, making it perfect for those who like a naturally undone look.

With medium to long lengths, this haircut needs minimal styling required and still keeps a natural finish. It’s ideal for days when you want that lived-in surfer vibe without spending time in front of a mirror. Just let it fall into place, and it instantly looks relaxed, confident, and easygoing.

Messy Fringe

The messy fringe is the perfect style for men who want a carefree beach-inspired look that still keeps a bit of structure. This cut ideal for those with a lot natural texture and volume, giving a truly authentic surfer hairstyle. It works well for medium-length hair, offering a beachy tousled look that never feels overdone.

It’s ideal for men with natural texture or waves who want a low-maintenance haircut. Use a light styling product to shape the fringe and keep it soft. The result is effortless yet stylish, the perfect middle ground between beach casual and everyday wear.

Messy Side-Swept Undercut

The messy side-swept undercut blends structure with surf culture for a style full of personality. It creates a bold contrast between the sides and the loose movement top, giving the perfect mix of control and freedom. It’s an ideal cut for men who want a clean edge with textured beach-worn volume.

The undercut sides offer strong definition and easy upkeep, while the top left longer enhances natural wave and controlled movement. This style works well for wavy or thick hair types. Use sea salt spray and a bit of light hair wax to get that lasting texture that feels both modern and relaxed.

Messy Faux Hawk

The messy faux hawk adds edgy twist to the surfer aesthetic with its lifted texture and structured sides. It’s the go-to style for men who want a mix rugged beach energy with a bold modern shape. It best suits thick or straight hair that holds volume and maintains form through the day.

Tapered sides add contrast, and the tousled top brings a spontaneous charm. It’s great active men who want low sides, high texture, and easy styling. Apply sea salt spray and a matte cream to keep wild, yet controlled, texture for a perfect beach-inspired finish.

Faux Hawk Fade

The faux hawk fade gives an edgy yet neat style that feels fresh and polished. It’s a good choice for professionals who want a look that works both for surf sessions and days off. The long hair top abruptly fades into skin sides, amplifying texture and volume.

Most of the hair flows forward, and the crown forms a curled-up fringe that adds visual interest. This combination of structure and texture makes it bold, functional, and completely surfer-ready.

Thick Wavy Fringe

The thick wavy fringe delivers a mysterious, captivating look that commanding attention. Popular among beachgoers, this style suits medium-length hair that flows over the forehead, creating distinct tousled strands that move naturally.

The sides and back usually have a scissor-cut taper, which offers subtle change in length while keeping focus on the fringe. It’s dynamic, textured, and full of character, ideal for those who want a touch of drama with their surfer vibe.

Textured Crop with a Taper Fade

The textured crop with a taper fade delivers modern surfer edge with its clean sides and rugged top. It’s ideal for men who want a shorter cut that still holds beach-inspired texture and movement. The tapered sides create defined shape without being too short, keeping the look versatile and fresh.

The cropped top stays tousled and easy to style, which works well for naturally wavy or thick hair. Use sea salt spray and hair wax for flexible control and that unmistakable beach texture. It’s simple, confident, and effortlessly cool.

Popular Man Bun & Updo Surfer Styles

Here are some of the most popular man bun and updo surfer styles: practical, laid-back looks that keep long or medium hair in check while still looking effortlessly cool.

Messy Man Bun

The messy man bun is a favorite among men with longer hair who want a practical way to keep hair off the face while still embracing surfer look. It’s an easy laid-back style that can be styled in just few minutes, giving a natural, relaxed finish. This ideal option works best for long hair that needs to be tied back but still looks effortless.

It can be worn casually or turned into a more refined look depending on the setting. The easy to maintain bun gives a loose natural finish and works for all hair types, especially thick or curly hair. It’s functional, timeless, and always in tune with the surfer lifestyle.

Top Knot with Undercut

The top knot with undercut offers a more dramatic surfer style with the perfect balance of bold and beachy. It’s the look perfect for men with longer hair who want to keep it stylish yet out of the way. The cut makes a strong modern statement with its sharp contrast between the top and sides, creating a clean yet relaxed aesthetic.

It works best for medium to long hair and offers both practicality and style. This style is ideal for men with thicker hair who are looking bold look that stands out while keeping things effortless and beach-ready.

Half Up, Half Down Style

The half up half down style combines best both worlds, giving you a relaxed surfer look with added practicality. This half-up style is perfect for men who want to keep hair off the face while still embracing surfer aesthetic. It’s a great choice for those with longer hair who need function and style in one.

It keeps hair off the face while maintaining surfer vibe and works best with thick or wavy hair. The look is easy to style and gives a naturally laid-back look that feels right at home on or off the beach.

Messy Bun

The messy bun gives off a relaxed easygoing look that’s often useful for surfers who must keep long tresses off their faces while catching waves. The style is simple: pull hair back into a mid-ponytail and pull ends halfway back, leaving ends out for a soft, natural shape.

For even more impact, consider adding few bold highlights to make the look pop under sunlight. The messy bun is functional yet stylish, keeping things comfortable and perfectly in line with surfer culture.

What Length of Hair Works Best?

When it comes to surfer-inspired styles, medium-length hair often works best because it gives enough length to create the desired tousled effect without losing shape. Both shorter and longer hair can pull off the surfer aesthetic with the right balance between texture and flow. The key is to keep sides shorter with a fade while maintaining length on top for that classic surfer vibe. Those with longer hair can channel their inner beach bum with a messy bun or ponytail, while medium-length to longer hair remains the most versatile for achieving the look.

• Medium-length to longer hair allows for natural movement and that signature carefree texture.
• Shorter styles like the side part, faux hawk, or crew cut can still reflect a surfer edge with the right finish.
• Teenage guys and mature men alike can adapt the look by keeping sides and back short with a taper fade to emphasize messy, longer hair on top.
• For a true aesthetic, maintain texture, volume, and a slightly undone finish that mimics time spent by the sea.

How To Get Surfer Hairstyle?

Getting The Perfect Surfer Hairstyle is all about adding texture, volume, and a messy look. Even if you don’t have naturally thick or wavy hair, you can still achieve the look using the right products and techniques. With the right care and styling routine, anyone can create that natural, effortless surfer vibe that feels fresh and beach-ready.

Step 1) Wash Your Hair With Volumising Products

Start by using volumizing shampoos and conditioners that are essential for removing excess product and oil while promoting additional texture and body. Look for highly-rated products with ingredients like ginkgo biloba, Vitamin B3, and healthy oils. These are essential, especially for those who spend too much time in salt water or color their hair. Avoid products that list keratin since it can make hair too smooth, which is the opposite effect needed for surfer styles.

Wash your hair thoroughly to remove product build-up and excess oil. A volumising shampoo and conditioner helps give your hair the added thickness and texture needed to achieve the surfer look. Regular cleansers won’t give the same effect, making it harder to get the thickness and volume you want. A thickening shampoo and conditioner with premium natural ingredients works best to boost volume and create a full-bodied base for those beachy waves.

Step 2) Use a Texturising Spray on Wet Hair

After shampooing and conditioning, apply a texturizing sea salt spray to wet hair. Sea salt adds grit and coarseness, helping to form that natural beach texture. The higher the concentration of salt, the more tousled and beachier your hair will look. Sea salt sprays also offer some hold, so choose one with nourishing ingredients that care for your hair and scalp while creating that surfer hair you want.

For washed and thoroughly rinsed hair, use a texturising spray to add extra grit and hold. A marine mist with unrefined Atlantic sea salt is an excellent choice, as it provides perfectly undone waves while nourishing the scalp with essential minerals.

Step 3) Scrunch Your Hair

Flip your head upside down and scrunch while spraying sea salt spray into wet hair. The scrunching action involves opening and closing your hands over the hair and pressing it toward the scalp repeatedly. This process creates natural waves that hold shape all day while fighting frizz and improving definition.

After scrunching, flip your head back and use your fingers in a claw-like shape to tousle the roots. When using marine mist, scrunch hair upwards with pulsing motions instead of squeezing continuously. This helps prevent frizz and creates more defined waves that feel natural and soft.

Step 4) Blow Dry or Air Dry

After scrunching, you can blow dry or air dry your hair. If your hair tends to be flat, blow drying helps enhance volume and texture. When blow drying, use a diffuser attachment on low or medium heat to maintain shape and reduce frizz. Focus on drying from roots to ends to lock in volume.

For air drying, gently pat your hair with a microfiber towel or a soft T-shirt to absorb excess water. Avoid rubbing your hair with a regular towel, as it can cause frizz and disrupt the wave pattern. While blow drying offers more control, air drying gives a softer, more natural finish. The key is patience, let your hair set naturally for that authentic surfer texture.

Step 5) Add a Styling Product With Hold

Once your hair is dry, apply a styling product with the right level of hold to keep your beachy hair in place all day. Some men re-apply sea salt spray, while others prefer styling products with a stronger, longer-lasting effect. Focus on the middle lengths and ends, where your hair’s natural texture needs the most support.

For a chunky, piecey look, use a matte pomade or styling wax in small sections once your hair is completely dry. A product like Hybrid Hair, made with Icelandic bentonite clay and organic British beeswax, offers touchable hold and adds texture and definition without stiffness. It nourishes and protects your locks, keeping them healthy and shiny while maintaining that perfect surfer finish.

Pro Tips For Surfer Hairs

Getting the perfect surfer hairstyle is all about keeping things natural, textured, and effortless. It’s not a style that needs heavy products or strict structure, it’s meant to look like you just came from the beach. Below are seven detailed tips to help you master the look and maintain that authentic surfer charm.

1. Keep It Medium and Messy

A layered cut at medium length is the foundation of surfer hair. It should be long enough to move with the wind but short enough to manage easily. Ask your barber for soft, uneven layers that enhance natural texture. The goal is natural flow, not sharp precision. This type of cut allows movement and volume while giving off that casual, sun-dried effect surfers are known for.

2. Use Sea Salt Spray for Texture

A sea salt spray is a surfer’s best friend. Spritz it on damp hair and scrunch with your hands to build natural waves and a windblown salty look. It adds texture without any stiffness, keeping hair soft but controlled. If your hair feels too flat, spray lightly at the roots for extra lift. Sea salt spray helps mimic the natural grit of ocean water, creating that signature beachy wave pattern that looks effortless yet styled.

3. Air Dry for the Best Finish

One of the biggest secrets to authentic surfer hair is to air dry your hair instead of relying on heat tools. Don’t over-style,  just let your hair dry naturally whenever possible. This preserves the natural shape of your waves and prevents damage from excessive blow-drying. If you’re short on time, use a microfiber towel to gently pat dry, avoiding friction that can cause frizz. The result is soft, natural movement that looks relaxed and genuine.

4. Avoid Heavy Gels and Heat Styling

Heavy gels and blow-drying can make hair stiff and unnatural, taking away from that carefree surfer vibe. Instead, use lightweight creams or mousses that encourage flexibility and movement. Surfer hair looks best when it’s slightly undone, so avoid anything that locks the hair into place. The key is to keep it natural—something that moves freely in the wind and feels soft to the touch.

5. Protect and Condition Regularly

Exposure to salt, sun, and chlorine can dry hair out fast, leaving it brittle and dull. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly to remove salt or pool chemicals, and follow up with a light conditioner. Once or twice a week, apply a bit of argan oil or coconut oil to keep your hair soft, hydrated, and manageable. Healthy hair enhances texture and shine, which makes surfer styles look even better.

6. Embrace Natural Highlights

True surfer hair often has sun-faded golden touches that develop naturally after time spent outdoors. If your hair doesn’t lighten easily, ask your barber for subtle highlights to mimic that effect. Focus on soft, scattered streaks rather than bold color changes to keep the look natural. These highlights give dimension and enhance your texture, creating that lived-in beach glow surfers are famous for.

7. Maintain the Natural Flow

The essence of surfer hair is its freedom and movement. Trim the ends every few months to avoid split ends but keep the length intact for that relaxed sway. Use products sparingly and work with your natural hair type instead of fighting against it. Whether you have waves, curls, or straight hair, let it flow freely. The surfer hairstyle thrives on imperfection—so keep it real, relaxed, and a little wild.

FAQ About Surfer Haircut

What is the surfer hairstyle called?

The surfer hairstyle is often called the “saafaa” in Japan, where it became popular in the early 1980s among people who were not surfers. It features tousled beach waves, sun-bleached highlights, and longer layered hair that give a cool, casual aesthetic. It embodies the relaxed, adventurous spirit of the ocean and is known for being an attractive, low-maintenance style.

What are the 7 basic haircuts?

The 7 basic haircuts include:

1. Crew cut
2. Buzz cut
3. Fade cut
4. Pompadour
5. Layered cut
6. Undercut
7. Taper cut

These styles give a great foundation for different looks, from classic to modern, helping men find the right haircut that suits their face shape and personal style.

What is the 3 2 1 rule for haircuts?

The 3 2 1 rule means trimming your hair every 3 weeks for short styles, every 2 months for medium-length hair, and every 1 season for longer hair. This routine helps maintain movement, texture, and a clean look while keeping your hair healthy and easy to style.

Conclusion

The surfer hairstyle remains one of the most iconic and timeless looks for men, perfectly blending relaxed beach vibes with modern style. It’s more than just a haircut; it’s a representation of freedom, movement, and natural texture. Whether you prefer medium-length curtains, messy short curls, or long layered waves, the surfer look embodies a carefree spirit and adventurous attitude that never goes out of fashion. With the right hair care routine, a few styling techniques, and the use of sea salt spray or matte pomade, achieving that effortlessly cool style is easier than ever.

As we head into 2025, the men’s surfer hairstyles continue to evolve, mixing classic and modern looks with cleaner fades and subtly defined natural textures. Whether you’re opting for a bit more structure or keeping it naturally tousled, this look offers endless possibilities to match your personality and lifestyle. The key is to embrace your hair’s natural flow, keep it low-maintenance, and let the ocean-inspired energy shape your style. It’s a look that will always capture the relaxed vibe of the beach, both figuratively and literally.