Having neutral colored nails is a great option for a beach vacation for a few reasons. Neutral nails are classic, understated, and go with everything which makes them perfect for a laidback beach vibe. Let’s discuss some of the best neutral nail colors to consider for your next beach getaway.
Subtle Nudes
Nude nails are a top choice for the beach. A soft beige, pale pink, or sand colored neutral looks gorgeous against sun-kissed skin. Neutral nudes are natural looking and not too distracting. They simply let your natural beauty shine through. Nudes also work with any summer outfit from casual shorts and tanks to cute sundresses and floppy hats.
Some great nude nail color options for the beach include:
- OPI Nail Lacquer in Bubble Bath – a perfect sheer, soft pinky beige
- Essie Nail Polish in Sand Tropez – a warm, beachy beige
- Zoya Nail Polish in Arizo – a pale pinky nude
- Orly Breathable in Praline – a sheer, creamy nude
- Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Mudslide – a deeper, taupe nude
These nudes work for any skin tone from fair to dark. You’ll look polished but not overdone. Nude nails are a beach vacation essential.
Subtle Shimmers
For a bit of shine, go for a subtle shimmery neutral nail color. Sheers and glazes with a subtle shimmer catch the light beautifully and give off a healthy, beachy vibe. They add a touch of glam in a totally beach-friendly way.
Some neutral shimmer shades to consider:
- Deborah Lippmann in Shifting Sands – a shimmery sheer taupe
- Dior Vernis in Sandy Beige – a warm, glittery nude
- Butter London Patent Shine 10X in Smoosh – a sheer, pale glaze with shimmer
- Essie Shine Line in Sandy Glimmer – a pale beige shimmer
- OPI Sheer Tints in Oh My Mai Tai – a sheer, glazed pink with shimmer
The shimmer in these polishes is understated yet enough to make your nails pop in the summer sun. Shimmers work especially well on short nails, adding color and glam without being over the top.
Sheer Creams
Another way to rock neutral nails for the beach is by going for sheer, creamy shades. These offer a wash of understated color while still letting your natural nails shine through. Sheer creams are flattering on all skin tones.
Some neutral sheer creams for the beach include:
- Essie Sheer Fantasy in Sheer Bliss – a light, milky nude
- Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy in Charming – a pale pink
- Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in Dreamy Date – a soft tan
- Julep in Pearly Shimmer – an iridescent sheer white
- China Glaze in Recycle – a shimmery sheer beige
These shades give a subtle wash of color that is beach-appropriate and easy to wear. Let your nails breath with these light, airy sheers.
Classic French Tips
French manicures may seem outdated but they are perennially chic for the beach. A crisp white tip contrasts beautifully against a neutral base color for a clean, beachy style. Modernize the French with a sheer pink or beige base versus stark white. Or try a colorful tip like pale blue or mint green for a beachy twist.
Some nice French manicure combinations for the beach include:
- Sheer pink base with white tips
- Pale beige base with white tips
- Seafoam green base with white tips
- Lavender base with baby blue tips
- Nude base with coral tips
French manicures work beautifully for the beach because they look fresh and summery. The crisp tip elevates the simple, natural base color.
Bare Nails
Don’t feel like you need polish for the beach. Bare, natural nails have a beauty of their own. If you have nice nails, consider flaunting them naked! Buff them to smooth perfection and add a little cuticle oil for a super low maintenance option. This allows your nails to breathe in the hot, often wet, salty beach environment.
If you do go bare, just remember to apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to your hands and nails to prevent sun damage. Reapply frequently after swimming or sweating. Protect those natural nails so they stay healthy.
Easy Application and Removal
When choosing colors and textures for the beach, keep easy application and removal in mind. Skip any extra lengthy nail art and embellishments that could get messed up in the water or sand. Opt for quick-dry polishes that streamline application. And always travel with a sheer, nourishing remover to take your polish off gently, even last minute.
Some nail polish types that apply and remove easily include:
- Sheer creams
- Neutral shimmers
- Gel polish
- Quick-dry polishes
- Acetone-free removers
Prioritize fuss-free polish for your beach vacation. Don’t spend all your relaxation time focused on your nails. Simple is best.
Keep Nails Short
No matter what neutral shades you choose, keep nails trimmed short before hitting the beach. Long nails are prone to breaking and chipping in the water and sand. Shorter nails stay strong and flawless.
Aim for nails no longer than:
- 1/4 inch past the fingertip for a classic length
- Just at or slightly above the fingertip for a super short length
Shorter nails mean your color lasts longer with no visible damage. You can always go for length after your beach vacation when hands won’t be getting quite as much wear and tear.
Hydrate Cuticles
The beach environment can be dehydrating for nails and cuticles. Salt, sun, and water exposure can lead to dryness and irritation. Counteract this by keeping cuticles ultra-hydrated.
Use a nourishing cuticle oil daily on your beach trip. Some good options include:
- Onsen Secret Cuticle Oil
- Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil
- CND Solar Oil
- Burts Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream
Massage the oil into cuticles and nails morning and night. The hydration will help neutral nails stay flexible and strong in the beach environment.
Conclusion
Neutral nails are ideal for a beach vacation because they are versatile and complement any summer outfit. Go for understated nudes, subtle shimmers, or sheer creams. A modern French manicure also looks beautiful at the beach. Bare nails work too if you want zero maintenance. Just remember to keep nails short for less damage and always hydrate cuticles. With these tips, your neutral mani will stay flawless from the boat to the boardwalk all vacation long.
