You’re enjoying the sun and an iced latte, but what’s on your nails? If you’re already packing your suitcase in your head or scrolling for outfit inspo, don’t skip the part that ties it all together: your vacation manicure. A great nail design will make your beach photos look amazing, cheer you up before boarding and keep you smiling when your tan has faded. So, what are the best vacation nails ideas 2025? I’ve put together some of the most interesting and trendy nail looks that are sure to catch your eye. Let’s talk textures, tones, and everything in between.
Pink Sorbet Fade with a Sea Star Accent
Pink to raspberry tips remind me of summer sorbet—sweet, chilled and instantly fun. This manicure mixes the calm style of a gradient with a sweet white starfish sticker that tells everyone, “I’m enjoying island life.” I enjoy how the natural nail base leads into a bright color which gives the whole manicure a fun and mature feel. It’s like that perfect beach dress—easy to wear, but never boring.
To recreate this at home, you’d want to start with a soft blush-toned base polish (Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” would do the trick), and then sponge on a hot pink ombré like OPI’s “Strawberry Margarita” for the tips. A starfish design can be applied as a sticker or painted on with a small nail brush and white gel polish. Adding the dotted texture to your sea star is very simple using a thin dotting tool. Cover the whole polish with a high-gloss top coat to make your nails look brand new.
If you’re not into overdoing it but still want your nails to whisper vacation vibes, this is the look. I chose something similar for my trip to Tulum last July and I can tell you, people paid attention. One woman actually stopped me at the smoothie bar and told me, “Your nails are just like a picture from a beach postcard.” Mission accomplished.
Glittering Starfish on Pink Sands
It seems like I’m on the beach with a delicious piña colada. The base is a soft glittery pink and white sparkles add a touch of sunshine. The next step was to bring in the starfish art which added a bit of fun without making the room feel too busy. I love how this set balances cuteness with polish (pun intended), like your favorite swimsuit that’s both stylish and comfy.
What you’ll need is a gentle pink like Zoya’s “Dot” as a base and a sparkly topper like ILNP’s “Birthday Suit” for that glint. The starfish can be freehanded with a fine brush or done with a stamping plate if you’re into nail tools. I’ve tried both, and honestly? Stickers save time and still get compliments. If you’d like a more toned-down look, use a matte top coat to keep the nails modern.
Whenever I’m off to a tropical place and want to look good on Instagram, I grab this design. I once paired these nails with a beach picnic outfit and thought my style had a unified theme. It’s a small touch that makes your whole trip feel thoughtful. Isn’t that the main thing we hope for when we go on a trip?
Ocean Fade with Gold Shells
Want to discuss this ocean ombré that looks like you’re walking into a tide pool? The color transitions from light nude to a calm baby blue and small golden starfish and shell decals are added in the right spots, as if they were found on a morning walk on the beach. Gold accents on a soft aquatic background seem both luxurious and costly, but they don’t have to cost a fortune.
I’ve noticed that OPI’s “Bubble Bath” and China Glaze’s “Too Yacht to Handle” make a nice combination for this look. The decals? You can find metallic nail charms on Amazon or at your favorite small nail supply shop. I find it works well to use tweezers on my nails while the top coat is still wet, so the crystals stay secure and don’t make my nails feel too heavy.
I once wore this set on a boat tour off Key Largo and someone asked me if I got them done in Miami. I managed to get them done the night before with a glass of wine and a good podcast playing. It may look fancy, but it’s easy to do if you’re patient. It’s a way to show that you’re taking it easy, but you still put some thought into your nails.
Wine-Stained Ombré with Crystal Drops
Why can’t vacation nails be anything but pastel or beachy? This rich berry fade is ideal for anyone with a date night or a cocktail evening on the rooftop. The burgundy melts into the regular nail color and the tiny crystal droplets add a special touch at the ends. They have a touch of sparkle, but not too much.
A nice combination is OPI’s “Malaga Wine” and Olive & June’s “HD.” I use a makeup sponge to blend the darker polish from the tip to the base. A wax pencil can be used to pick up the crystals and they can then be pressed into a sticky top coat or builder gel. Just make sure to cap everything well if you’re traveling—those little embellishments like to wander off.
The look makes you feel like you’re enjoying a drink on a balcony in Barcelona. I tried this in Lisbon last fall and every outfit looked a little more elegant. If you’re planning a city-based trip, this mani will fit in nicely.
Soft Beige for the Low-Key Luxe Girl
If you want a vacation mani that looks good with everything and won’t get checked at the airport, less color is better. Almond beige is a great light color for someone who likes to pack neutrals, linen and gold accessories. The glossy look prevents the design from being dull and the almond shape gives it a touch of softness to make it elegant, not simple.
I always reach for Chanel’s “Beige Troublant” or Essie’s “Topless & Barefoot” when I want a similar color on a budget. It’s a color that looks great all year, but really stands out when your hands are tanned. One tip? Applying two thin layers is better than one thick layer—it lasts longer and feels better.
I tend to pack a nude like this whenever I go on a trip. It’s the extra polish you need with your bikini, your dress or your last-minute dinner outfit. If you’re the kind of girl who throws on a white linen shirt and gold hoops and calls it a look (guilty), this is your manicure soulmate. It whispers luxury in the most effortless way.
Cotton Candy Skies with a Hint of Stardust
If you picture yourself with pink and blue skies and cotton candy, this gradient is the perfect fit for your nails. The transition from sheer pink to a light blue is so gentle it seems like it could disappear. A hint of shimmer is present, but it’s not so bright that it looks like glitter. It’s calm, it’s lovely and it makes you want to stop unpacking and admire your nails for a bit.
I’d begin with a semi-sheer pink like Essie’s “Sheer Fantasy” on my nails. For the gradient, a sponge blend of OPI’s “It’s a Boy!” and “Mod About You” gives that perfect faded duo-tone. The shimmer? I’d apply a light layer of Orly’s “Tiara” all over my nails to make them sparkle. You definitely need a super glossy top coat to finish the look.
I tried a similar look before going to the Amalfi coast and it stayed looking great despite getting wet from the sea, covered in sunscreen and being sprayed with sunset drinks all week. That special, romantic touch makes every action special, even if you’re just walking on the beach.
Raised Starfish in Soft Shell Pink
This hairstyle has plenty of texture and style, but it’s not too cliché. The 3D white starfish and bubbles stand out on the soft seashell-pink base in a way that is both fun and well thought out. It’s a bit like finding shells on the beach as a child, but now they’re polished and carefully arranged for you to touch.
If you want to try this at home, you’ll need a baby pink gel polish—Beetles “Pink Lady” is a great option—and a thick white gel paint for the 3D work (like Born Pretty’s 4D gel). Make the raised bubbles with a dotting tool and use a small flat brush to shape the starfish. Each layer should be exposed to a UV light to protect the outline.
If you want to have fun or need some nail attention for a trip, this set is ideal for Florida, Bali or a spa getaway. I wore this style while on a girls’ trip to Cancún and my nails were photographed more than I was.
Delicate Shell Art on a Blush Base
Minimalists, rejoice. This design takes the mermaidcore style and makes it simple and easy. The pale base brings everything to life, but it’s the white shells on the ring fingers, with a crystal, that tie the whole design together. It’s fancy but not over the top and the extra details let you know I planned my nails for my trip.
I recommend starting with a base like Deborah Lippmann’s “Baby Love” and using a thin striping brush with opaque white polish (try Le Mini Macaron’s “Coconut Yogurt”) to draw out the shell details. A small Swarovski crystal or rhinestone is all you need to give the gem some sparkle.
This design is great for me when I want something romantic but still suitable for work if I’m going from a vacation to an office meeting. It’s the same as spraying a beachy scent on a blazer—it looks good because you can barely notice it.
Matte White Palms on Barely-There Neutral
This matte white-on-nude design with etched palm leaves is so clean, graphic and fresh that you’ll want to wear linen from head to toe and sip coconut water right from the shell. The matte look gives the bag a modern feel and the palm frond design hints at tropical style, but without too many flowers.
You should begin with a neutral gel base, like Modelones “Milk Tea” or a builder gel in nude, to get this look. You can stamp the palm with white matte polish or use a liner brush to paint it. A result can be achieved by adding a final layer of OPI’s “Matte Top Coat.”
I repeated this formula for a trip to Tulum and it matched everything I brought. It’s a nail style that looks normal until someone notices it, often when you’re about to enjoy your matcha.
Soft Petal Pink with a Sleek Metallic Wave
This design has that understated glam energy. All the pieces are soft pink and have a bridal feel, but with a modern chrome touch. One silver wave is applied to a nail, making it look like a small accent chain on your manicure. It’s the perfect example of quiet luxury, as if it were meant for a resort that serves water in wine glasses.
I often start with “Tra-La-La” by Dior or “Dot” by Zoya for the base and next I use a silver foil striping tape or press chrome powder onto nail glue to add the metallic line. Don’t forget to apply a smooth shiny top layer to preserve the car’s beauty.
This mani gives your look that last bit of vacation vibes. I wore the same outfit on a wellness retreat in Arizona and it made my everyday looks seem more planned. I love this nail idea for my next vacation because it’s simple, but never gets old.
Daisy Days in Lemon Gelato
This daisy-inspired nail look is light, fresh and reminds me of a childhood lemonade stand. Two of my nails have daisies painted by hand on a pink background and the rest are a soft yellow. It’s joyful, simple, and so incredibly summery. As soon as I see this design, I feel like having Amalfi tiles, Aperol spritzes and wandering through flower markets.
If you’re thinking about recreating this, go for OPI’s “Banana Bandana” or Olive & June’s “Lemonade” for the yellow nails. The pink base is made soft and clean with “Ballet Slippers” from Essie. The daisy petals are most easily painted with a thin nail art brush and white gel polish and remember to add a golden dot in the center with a dotting tool.
What I like best is how easy it is to do, yet it appears very considered. I wore this outfit in July while in Positano and my nails looked just like the ceramic plates on all the café tables. Little details like this seriously elevate your vacation aesthetic.
Tropical Sunset Ombré
Nothing shows the warmth of a summer evening as well as this pink-orange-yellow ombré painting. Every nail looks like the horizon at sunset—smooth gradients, high shine and just a hint of tropical flair. The square tips give the look a little more structure, making it appear chic instead of childish. Trust me, it’s vacation-core with edge.
If you want to do this yourself, use Essie’s “Tart Deco,” “Peach Side Babe,” and “Watermelon” for a sponge fade. You should mix the layers while they are still wet and use two rounds of sponging to get the most vibrant color. Spray Seche Vite over top to give nails a shiny tropical glaze when dry.
This set will make everyone notice at your pool party. The bartender noticed my nails while I was in Palm Springs and said they looked like a sunset dipped in color. That’s really all we hope for in vacation nails ideas for 2025.
Peachy Sunrise Melt
Every time she moves her head, it looks like she’s giving us a beautiful vacation sunrise. The color shifts slowly from a pale peach, to a coral and then to a dash of pink that looks like morning light on the ocean. This set looks very well put together, but it isn’t overly fussy. It’s a style made for easy wearing, whether you’re at a brunch or dressed in a silk headscarf.
I really like using Cirque Colors for soft pastels and I find that “Georgette” and “XOXO” mix beautifully. For the best results, use a sponge to fade your nails, but if you’re short on time, a soft silicone brush will work. The almond shape makes the fingers look longer and gives the fun colors more grace.
If you’re going to a beach resort or somewhere warm and breezy, this outfit looks perfect with every floaty outfit and every golden hour photo. It’s quiet, beautiful and has just the right amount of holiday spirit.
Starshine over Blush
Delicate stars and blush pink come together in this lovely celestial set. The stars are easy to see and spread out enough to keep the sky light and free. It’s romantic, yes, but not overly precious. Sometimes, it seems like you’re always prepared for a photo—especially when the light is perfect.
First, I would use Essie’s “Eternal Optimist” as the base for my blush. Draw the stars with a white nail art pen or striping brush, but don’t add too many. Less is definitely more here. Another thing I do is add some shimmer top coat to just one nail to make the manicure stand out, but still look elegant.
If you’re planning fancy dinners, rooftop parties or a romantic trip, this is the perfect mani for you. I put this on during a weekend in Charleston and it made both my pastries and drinks seem more special.
Turquoise-Tipped Blossoms
Let’s pause for a moment to enjoy how new this is. The traditional French style is refreshed with turquoise tips and cute 3D floral appliqués. It’s playful but not immature, modern but totally wearable. This is the mani that shows you’ve booked a beach bungalow and planned a romantic dinner for you and your partner.
I’d use a light or pale pink base such as OPI’s “Bubble Bath,” to achieve the look. The turquoise tips can be painted freehand with a short angled brush (try Essie’s “Turquoise & Caicos”). Flowers are best done with 3D gel polish or press-on appliqués, as they won’t lift when you use a builder base beneath them.
I did something very much like this for a trip to Hawaii and felt like I had tiny hibiscus flowers on my hands. It’s a delicate style, but it’s fun to wear and it matches every beach cover-up I own. Highly recommend.
Hot Tropic Swirls in Pink and Orange
These striking, colorful swirls are exactly what a heatwave looks like on your nails. On a soft pink background, vibrant fluorescent orange and hot pink are curved into graphic lines which makes the polish look like something from a retro beach bar. They make a lot of noise, don’t care who hears them and are meant to be played while you sip a drink under a palapa.
The color combo I suggest is Orly’s “Oh Snap” pink and China Glaze’s “Orange Knockout.” You need a detail brush and a little patience to make swirls on a nude base like Essie’s “Mademoiselle.” Matte top coat optional, but I love it here—it gives it that velvety ’60s poster vibe.
When I rocked this design in Tulum, my nails got more attention than my sandals (and those were bright neon too). They’re one of those nail ideas that will make people wonder where you got them done.
Hibiscus Vibes with Neon Flowers
Floral meets fun in this minimalist hibiscus design. The base is left clear, so the nails look light and open and the bright pink and orange petals add a pop of color. The detail dots make it look like the eyes have tiny spots of sunshine.
The base you need is a sheer or nude pink and Olive & June’s “CCT” is a great choice. You should use a thin nail art brush or a toothpick to create the petals. I love the bright colors of these nails—use Sally Hansen’s Insta-Dri in “Peach Buzz” and “Flashy Fuchsia” for a great look. Dotting tools make adding those sunny little details foolproof.
These nails give me the feeling of Hawaii without having to pay for airfare. It’s a fun style that could work for a weekend festival, a beach party or just to make your morning coffee more interesting.
Apricot Creamsicle Ombré
The soft texture and gradual transition from apricot to blush pink make this set seem like a bit of golden hour captured in a palette. Every nail is a little different, so the whole manicure looks really unique, even though it’s not too noticeable and can match all your outfits.
I achieved this using the “Pastel Paradise” set from Modelones and a sponge for the gradient. The secret is to use a shiny top coat and blend the fade all the way down to the base of your nails.
I put this on for my trip to Santa Barbara in late summer and my nails finally matched the wine and the sunsets. It gives you a healthy glow that’s never overpowering which works well for a relaxed luxury look.
Pink Lemonade French with Floral Pops
Here, you’ll find soft French with a touch of fun. The tips are painted with a pale yellow lemonade color that reminds everyone of summer and each hand is finished off with a pink daisy. It’s as sweet and refreshing as your favorite vacation drink, but with a twist.
Base shade? Zoya’s “Dot.” I’d suggest choosing OPI’s “Exotic Birds Do Not Tweet” or Essie’s “Hay There” for the tips. Select a special dotting tool for the centers and use a micro-liner to add the lines for the petals. After you’re done, put a super glossy top coat on to make it shine brightly.
It’s made for those days when you’re moving from the beach to a small town square. It’s youthful but not childish, making your nails look like a sundress.
Soft Petal Pink with Watercolor Accent
The softest hint of flowers is this look—you’ve got petal-pink polish on all your nails, with a single watercolor flower placed on your ring finger. It’s both creative, ladylike and gentle enough to fit the style of any minimalist. Think: nail art for those who say they don’t do nail art.
You could paint the base with either Deborah Lippmann’s “Baby Love” or Essie’s “Muchi Muchi.” After that, use a thin detail brush to apply two layers of sheer pink and red over a clear decal or directly on your nail.
This style is soft and suits well with linen pants and little pieces of jewelry. If you’re looking for a spa weekend, some alone time or a break from excitement, this is perfect.
Glossy Watermelon Marble
I instantly remembered having fruity cocktails and walks on a boardwalk when I saw this makeup. The swirl of pink marble appears on almond nails, mixing bright fuchsia with a clear bubblegum color in a watercolor style. That one nail with a negative-space swirl? It’s about mixing order and fun, creating just the right amount of each. It’s juicy. It’s flirty. It’s definitely one of the most eye-catching nail ideas for those who enjoy being noticed.
You can create that smooth, vibrant finish by using OPI’s “Strawberry Margarita” and “Suzi Nails New Orleans” colors. I use a needle and a little white polish to blend the pink into a marbled pattern. The shine? Always top with Seche Vite for that mirror glaze.
I’ve actually worn different versions of this look for my trips to Miami and Tulum. Let me be honest, the compliments are endless. There’s something hypnotic about the way the light hits that mix of shades — like a drink with way too many garnishes in the best way.
Peachy Ombré with Golden Veins
This one whispers luxury. The peach-to-white ombré looks smooth on every nail, but the gold-veined marbled accent really stands out. It feels like a warm summer day, with silky clothes and a balcony bathed in sunlight and the kind of manicure you’d choose for a woven maxi dress and gold hoops. It still manages to be elegant without being harsh. If you’re a minimalist but still want to demonstrate your attention to detail, this design is perfect for you.
I apply Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” first and then use OPI’s “Funny Bunny” to create the gradient. For the marble nail, I take a liner brush and lightly mix “I Cannoli Wear OPI” and “Put it in Neutral,” then drag the brush through. The metallic streaks? Gold leaf foils or a very thin striping brush loaded with gilded polish.
Even though I was in sandals and a tank top, wearing this made me feel like my whole wardrobe had improved during my trip to Charleston.
Fresh French with a Floral Twist
French tips never go out of style, but this particular style is especially lovely. The usual white crescent on a nude base is updated by adding a single periwinkle flower — small, detailed and placed on the accent nail. It’s simple, stylish and just enough fun to make it a great place to visit. What I love most? You can use it by the pool or at dinner surrounded by string lights.
No need for wild tools here. I find that a French manicure stencil helps me get clean lines and I use “Almond Nude” from Olive & June as the base. The flower? A dotting tool and a thin brush with the colors “Periwinkle Pop” and “Snow Me White” from Sinful Colors are all you need.
I love this mani for those days when I have to go from a brunch cruise to a wedding. It goes with everything and somehow still feels special.
Minimalist Gold Lining
Talk about quiet luxury. The combination of a soft blush base and fine, thin gold lines is meant to look just like the way wind blows over sand dunes or a river in the light. The simplicity is so elegant, but it’s the little metal details that prove I plan every detail of my outfit.
I choose to paint without decals and use a brush instead. I like to use “Pink Nude” from Le Vernis as a base for my look. I use Orly’s “Halo” for gold or the trusty Art Club gold striping brush. When dragging your line, try to breathe out — this will make your movement more stable.
I chose a similar look last summer in Positano and made sure to hold every espresso with my fingers curled and my nails showing.
Coastal 3D Shell Art
If you’re looking for a mani that says beach vacation, this is the one. Pastel pink matte nails have three-dimensional shell and starfish details, made from white and silver. The texture itself is amazing — it feels like you’re wearing art or little sculptures made just for you. It’s fun, surprising and looks elegant for something so detailed. If you’re looking for a memorable nail design, this is one of the best ideas out there.
I usually build these designs using builder gel and nail molds and I prefer the Makartt 3D Acrylic Molding Gel Kit. The soft base is protected by a matte top coat which allows the sculpted designs to stand out. You won’t be able to do this at home in a hurry — so it’s best to book with a skilled nail artist.
It made me think of my visit to the Amalfi Coast, where everything looked as though it belonged in a still life — lemons, linen and seashells. This manicure was my love letter to that mood.
Pink Starfish Parade
Pairing soft pink with raised white starfish gives off a quick island vibe. The base is made into a coastal scene by adding large 3D sea stars in fun positions across the nails. The simple and symmetrical design makes it look cute, not cheesy. It’s a good idea if you want to have a beach-inspired manicure without making it too much — and I think it’s one of the cutest nail styles I’ve seen for the year.
They are made by shaping builder gel or acrylic paste. I prefer the Born Pretty 3D Gel range because it sets well under LED light and doesn’t come off with sand or sunscreen. Use a dotting tool or fine sculpting brush to give your stars a perfect shape and finish with a velvet matte topcoat to make the base smooth.
I did the same thing for a beach wedding in Mexico last year. Everyone else kept it simple — I went all out with the marine princess look. No regrets.
Subtle Shell & Star Accents
If you’re into beach style but want something calm, this outfit fits the bill. The nails are shaped short and round, with a white seashell and starfish design over a barely there blush pink base. It’s comfortable, pretty and even perfect for a short trip nearby. I think this design is like discovering a beautiful, simple shell on the beach: you don’t expect it, but it’s perfect.
I’d make my base with either “Sheer Fantasy” by Essie or “Bare My Soul” by OPI, then outline the drawing with a white art brush. Curing between layers helps maintain precision. No sculpting here — just confident, clean detailing.
I turn to this one whenever I want vacation nails but have work responsibilities too. It’s cute, not loud. Sweet, but not sugary.
Tropical Sorbet Ombré
This set is straight-up sunshine in manicure form. There’s a range of colors like creamy coral, golden orange, a little peachy pink and one soft gradient, all like ice cream by the pool. The tiny 3D daisy on one nail is the cherry on top — playful, nostalgic, and very Y2K-reboot (which, let’s be honest, is having a real moment right now).
The base colors in this look can be done using the Beetles “Sunshine & Citrus” gel set. I suggest using V Beauty Pure’s 3D nail art gel to sculpt the daisy, since it keeps all the details in place. Cure every petal and stack the flower from the bottom to the top so it looks 3D.
This design made me feel happy whenever I looked at my hands. Like a mini summer party, no RSVP required.
Vintage Ditsy Florals & Dots
Does anyone else get a sense that this one is like a vintage beach towel, in a good way? Cobalt flowers and crisp white dots are added to the matte pink nails, making them look like something you’d find on a vintage postcard. It’s gentle and sweet, but still has a modern look because of its matte texture and scattered design.
It’s best to begin with a polish like Rosy Future by Sally Hansen and then add a velvet matte top coat over it. Following this, use a dotting tool and two detail brushes to paint the flowers and dots — try using OPI’s “My Pal Joey” for the blue and a crisp white gel for contrast.
I wore this same outfit on a family road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. Picking up a coffee cup from a roadside diner made it seem instantly more adorable.
Daisy Chain Daydream
This one is a daisy daydream. All the nails have white daisies, some with raised petals and some painted, placed against a shiny ballet-pink background. It’s soft, pretty and seems to blend both modern and vintage styles. For sure, this nail style is perfect for anyone wanting flower child meets fashion blogger vibes.
I usually put on Kiara Sky’s “Bare With Me” as the base and I paint the flowers by hand and add a little builder gel to give them some height. Add a gold bead or foil in the middle and let it cure — just a little sparkle can make a big difference.
Putting on this look made me imagine myself acting like a leading lady in a rom-com, walking through lavender, wearing a sundress and smiling as I placed my iced matcha order. Even if all I did was go to Target.
