There’s something about the effortlessly tousled hair you see strolling along Sydney’s Bondi Beach that captures the spirit of Australian summer. Loose, salt-kissed waves with just the right amount of volume—Bondi Waves—have become the ultimate surf-girl signature, coveted well beyond the shoreline. Whether you spend your mornings riding the break or simply want that sun-drenched look for brunch in the city, this guide delivers everything you need to master the perfect Bondi Wave.
What Exactly Are Bondi Waves?
Bondi Waves aren’t your standard curls. They’re natural, undone, and breezy, as if you just stepped out of the ocean—even if you’re miles from the coast. Think of them as the golden mean between loose beach curls and full-bodied mermaid hair. The style embraces a slight bend through the mid-lengths, soft texture at the ends, and a shine that catches the afternoon sun.
Step 1: Start with a Healthy Base
The best waves begin with healthy hair. Salt water, UV rays, and warm winds can dry out strands quickly, so preparation is key.
- Hydrate regularly: Use a sulphate-free, moisture-rich shampoo and conditioner. Ingredients like macadamia oil, jojoba, and Australian kakadu plum help maintain softness and elasticity.
- Weekly deep treatment: A nourishing mask once a week replenishes moisture lost to the sun and sea.
- Trim every 6–8 weeks: Regular trims keep ends neat and prevent frizz, which can ruin that relaxed, flowy look.
Healthy hair not only holds waves longer but also reflects light for that natural seaside shine.
Step 2: Create the Perfect Texture
Bondi Waves are all about texture that feels airy, not heavy or sticky.
For natural curl or wave:
- Apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner to damp hair.
- Scrunch in a sea-salt sprayfrom mid-length to ends.
- Let hair air-dry, or use a diffuser on low heat for extra volume.
For straight hair:
- Begin with towel-dried, slightly damp hair.
- Apply a heat protectant, then loosely braid hair into two or three sections.
- Blow-dry gently or sleep on the braids.
- Release and finger-comb for soft, beachy bends.
The goal is a loose “S” shape through the mid-lengths, not tight ringlets.
Step 3: Embrace the Sea (or Fake It)
Nothing beats a real ocean dip for that authentic Bondi finish. The natural salt adds grip and lift, creating waves that feel truly lived-in. But if you’re landlocked or it’s the middle of winter, you can mimic the effect.
- DIY salt spray: Mix a teaspoon of sea salt, a few drops of argan oil, and warm water in a spray bottle.
- Lightly mist hair, scrunching as you go, until you achieve a natural bend.
Avoid over-saturating—Bondi Waves should be touchable, not crunchy.
Step 4: Add Sun-Kissed Dimension
Part of the Bondi magic is that effortless, naturally highlighted colour. If you want to brighten things up:
- Soft balayage or babylights give a gradual, sunlit effect.
- Ask your colourist for warm, golden undertones to enhance that just-off-the-beach glow.
- Use a purple shampoo once a week to maintain brightness if you’re blonde.
Remember to protect coloured hair with UV sprays or hats when you’re out in the harsh Australian sun.
Step 5: Lock It In—Without Stiffness
The secret to Bondi Waves is movement. Heavy hairspray kills the vibe, so opt for light, flexible products.
- Finish with a texturizing mist or a pea-sized amount of matte styling cream to tame flyaways while keeping that airy bounce.
- Flip your head upside down and give it a gentle shake for added volume before you head out.
Final Breeze
Bondi Waves embody the carefree, sunlit essence of Australian coastal life—effortless yet striking, relaxed yet polished. With the right prep, a little sea-salt magic, and smart aftercare, you can channel that iconic surf-girl vibe every day, whether you’re strolling along Campbell Parade or simply dreaming of the ocean from your city apartment.
So next time you crave a style that’s both natural and glamorous, skip the tight curls and heavy sprays. Embrace the wave—the Bondi Wave—and let your hair capture the freedom of the Australian seaside.