Best Beach Wave Styling Tools
September 22, 2026 · 3 min read · by Justice Pallais
No brand paid to be included and there are no affiliate links. Product details come from each brand's own product page (or a major retailer's, where noted) as of September 2026; formulas and names change, so check the label before you buy.
"Beach waves" covers three quite different looks: a uniform S-shaped crimp, loose bends that look like they air-dried that way, and big, polished waves. Each comes from a different tool, which is why the same request can produce very different hair.
How we chose
- Currently sold, checked on the brand's site or a major retailer.
- One tool for each kind of wave, with the brand's stated heat settings.
- Two texture sprays, for anyone who wants waves without heat.
At a glance
| Tool | Type | The wave it makes |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Tools 24K Gold 3 Barrel Waver | Triple-barrel waver | Uniform S-waves |
| ghd Wave Triple Barrel Deep Waver | Triple-barrel waver | Deep, crease-free waves |
| Beachwaver Pro Series | Rotating curling iron | Loose, beachy curls (1.25") |
| T3 SinglePass Curl X 1.75" BodyWaver | Big-barrel curling iron | Big, polished waves |
| T3 Curling Straightener | Flat iron with wraparound plates | Flat-iron bends |
| Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x (Straight+Wavy) | Air multi-styler | Airy waves with less direct heat |
1. Hot Tools 24K Gold 3 Barrel Waver
The classic triple-barrel waver, with digital heat settings up to 450°F, dual voltage and a two-hour auto shut-off. Hot Tools backs it with a seven-year limited warranty.
Good for: a defined, uniform wave that lasts. Brand page
2. ghd Wave Triple Barrel Deep Waver
ghd's waver holds a single styling temperature of 365°F with dual sensors, rather than offering a range, and heats up in about 50 seconds. It is designed for deep waves without creases.
Good for: anyone who would rather not choose a heat setting, and lightened hair that should not go higher. Ulta
3. Beachwaver Pro Series
A curling iron whose barrel rotates left or right at the touch of a button, so the hair wraps itself. It comes in 1" and 1.25" barrels, and the brand says the 1.25" is for loose, beachy waves. The heat range is 310°F to 450°F, with auto shut-off and travel-friendly voltage.
Good for: people who find wrapping a curling iron awkward. Brand page
4. T3 SinglePass Curl X 1.75" BodyWaver
An extra-long 1.75" ceramic barrel with nine heat settings and dual voltage. T3 says its SinglePass technology keeps the heat consistent without hot or cool spots. A barrel this wide makes loose, polished waves rather than curls.
Good for: big, glossy waves on long hair. Brand page
5. T3 Curling Straightener
A slim flat iron with wraparound plates designed to straighten, curl or wave, with nine heat settings and a digital display. Twisting a flat iron as you glide it down is the fastest way to a relaxed, undone bend.
Good for: one tool that straightens and waves, and shorter hair. Brand page
6. Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-styler and Dryer (Straight+Wavy)
Dyson's 2026 Airwrap model styles with air rather than a hot plate or barrel. This version includes a 1.6" curling barrel and a straightening attachment, and it can be set up through the MyDyson app. There is also a Curly+Coily version.
Good for: drying and waving in one step with less direct heat. Ulta
Waves without heat: two texture sprays
Sun Bum Texturizing Sea Spray
A classic sea salt spray with Hawaiian sea salt and sea kelp, which Sun Bum says adds texture and body without leaving hair dry and crunchy. Brand page
OUAI Wave Spray
A salt-free option, which matters for lightened hair that does not need more salt. OUAI says it enhances natural texture while keeping strands soft. Brand page
Using hot tools on colored hair
- Heat protectant every time. See the best heat protectants for beach hair.
- Use the lowest setting that holds the wave. Lightened hair usually needs far less than the maximum.
- Leave the ends out of the barrel for a more modern, beachy wave, and less heat on the most fragile part of the hair.
- Let waves cool completely before you brush or finger through them.
A good cut makes waves easier. Layers placed for movement do half the work: see haircuts or the best salons for precision haircuts in the Beach Cities.
Frequently asked questions
What barrel size makes beach waves?
Generally 1.25" to 1.5" for loose, beachy waves on shoulder-length or longer hair. Smaller barrels make tighter curls; larger ones make big, soft bends.
Is a waver or a curling iron better for beach waves?
A triple-barrel waver makes a uniform S-shaped wave quickly. A curling iron or wand gives a more varied, natural-looking wave but takes more practice.
Are sea salt sprays bad for blonde hair?
They can be drying on lightened hair if used daily. A salt-free texture spray is a gentler alternative for blondes.
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