39 Must-See Summer Nail Ideas You’ll Fall in Love With

Looking for fun summer nail ideas?

Bright colors, cool patterns, and cute designs can make your nails pop this season!

In this article, we’ll show you some easy and creative nail looks perfect for sunny days.

Let’s get started!

1. Lemonade Yellow Shorties for Sunshine Vibes

A close-up shot of a well-moisturized woman's hand with a relaxed pose and five fingers. Each finger has a short, square-shaped summer nail painted in a vibrant lemonade yellow. The polish has a glossy finish that gleams under the natural bright sunlight from the outdoor surroundings. The skin appears soft and hydrated, with neatly groomed cuticles. The summery yellow hue contrasts beautifully against the skin tone, giving the overall look a cheerful, sunshine-filled vibe that evokes outdoor picnics and carefree days.

Summer’s unofficial color? Lemonade yellow. It’s like sunshine on your fingertips.

These shorties are cheerful, low-maintenance, and match perfectly with iced drinks and sundresses.

Add a high-gloss topcoat for a “just peeled a lemon” shine. Warning: they may boost your mood instantly.

2. Sunset Ombré Coffin Nails

A close-up of a well-moisturized woman’s single hand only, showing five fingers, highlights coffin-shaped nails with a flawless ombré blend of coral, tangerine, and deep pink tones. The gradient mimics a summer sunset sky, rich and glowing. Each nail features a glassy finish that captures the sun's golden reflections. The skin glows under the warm light, with each finger relaxed and naturally spaced. The relaxed pose is set against a natural bright sunlight outdoor background, where hints of palm leaves and sky frame the scene. These radiant summer nails exude sunset vacation vibes.

Golden hour but make it nails.

Blend coral, pink, and orange for a dreamy ombré that fades like the perfect summer sunset. Coffin shapes stretch the effect and add drama.

These are nails for sipping sangria while pretending you’re not checking your phone every five minutes.

3. Neon French Tips with Nude Base

A close-up of a well-moisturized woman's hand displays five fingers with almond-shaped nails featuring a nude base and vivid neon French tips in lime green, hot pink, and electric orange. The summer nails are crisp and playful, elevated by the natural bright sunlight background lighting from a nearby window. The hand is angled slightly upward, fingers elegantly splayed to showcase the clean lines of the manicure. The glossy finish on the nails reflects the sunlight, while the hydrated skin and tidy cuticles complete the fresh, fun summer vibe.

The French mani got invited to Coachella and came back loud. Swap the white tips for neon green, pink, or orange.

Keep the base nude and clean. It’s classy meets chaos—in the best way.

These scream, “I’m fun, but I still have my life together.”

4. Tropical Leaf Nail Art on Soft White

A photo of a woman's hand with medium-length oval nails painted with a soft white base and detailed with hand-painted green tropical leaves on the ring and middle fingers. The botanical summer nails feature palm and monstera leaf motifs with fine black detailing. The skin appears dewy and sun-kissed. The background is illuminated by natural bright sunlight pouring through a window.

Vacation in a manicure.

Soft white nails with hand-painted tropical leaves feel like sipping piña coladas under a cabana.

Palm fronds, monstera vibes—add them all. The clean base keeps things breezy, not busy.

Perfect for that vacation you booked… or the one you’re manifesting.

5. Icy Blue Jelly Nails with Glitter

A close-up photo of a well-moisturized woman's hand with five fingers. The nails are long and squoval, painted in a translucent icy blue jelly polish sprinkled with fine silver glitter. The summer nails shimmer in the natural bright sunlight background lighting from the window. The hand is positioned with fingers curled inward slightly, emphasizing the glass-like effect of the polish. The glitter appears suspended within the blue tint, creating depth and sparkle. Smooth, glowing skin and meticulously groomed cuticles enhance the cool, fresh-off-the-poolside feel of this vibrant summer look.

Clear, cool, and straight-up hypnotic.

Icy blue jelly nails with scattered glitter look like frozen pool water with sparkle.

They’re chic, chill, and ideal for that “just got out of the pool but still flawless” aesthetic.

Bonus: they pair beautifully with silver rings and poolside selfies.

6. Watermelon Accent Nails

A close-up photo of a well-moisturized woman's hand with five fingers, each featuring a juicy pink polish on most nails. The ring finger has a delightful watermelon slice design, with a green rind, black seeds, and a touch of white detailing. The accent nail is the ring finger. The nails glow under the natural bright sunlight background lighting from a nearby window. The skin is hydrated, and the cuticles are tidy, providing a clean, summery finish.

Two words: fruity glam.

Paint most nails a juicy red or pink, and add watermelon slices as accents—green rinds, tiny black seeds, maybe even a glossy drip.

It’s fun, fresh, and fabulous for summer picnics. Pro tip: pair with actual watermelon and a cute straw hat.

7. Lavender Chrome with a Holographic Twist

A close-up photo of a well-moisturized woman's hand with five fingers and medium almond-shaped summer nails coated in lavender chrome polish. The iridescent finish captures light and shifts subtly between lavender, pink, and silver hues. Positioned near a window, the hand bathes in natural bright sunlight background lighting, enhancing the multi-dimensional sheen. The fingers are slightly spread, with the thumb tilted toward the light to catch the color shift. Skin appears luminous and smooth, reflecting the ethereal, fairy-tale essence of this chrome-infused summer manicure.

Lavender’s soft and sweet, but add chrome and you’ve got summer magic.

These nails shift in the light, catching sunbeams like fairy wings. Ideal for those late-night beach walks or dancing barefoot at golden hour.

Pastel with an edge? Yes, please.

8. Starfish & Seashell Embellished Nails

A close-up shot of a well-moisturized woman's hand with five fingers. The nails are oval-shaped and have a soft pastel base. They are adorned with delicate 3D embellishments like starfish, seashells, and pearlescent beads. The nails shimmer subtly in the natural bright sunlight background lighting from a nearby window. The skin is hydrated, and the cuticles are flawlessly groomed. The beach-inspired look evokes mermaid vibes and coastal charm.

Ocean-core is in, and your nails are the new shoreline.

Add mini starfish, tiny shells, and pearly accents to a pastel base. Think mermaid in a maxi dress.

It’s textured, tactile, and begging to be shown off while you sip something tropical with an umbrella in it.

9. Soft Peach Squoval Nails with Gold Foil

A photo of a close-up shot of a well-moisturized woman's hand with five fingers, each having medium squoval nails painted in a soft peach shade. The nails are adorned with irregular gold foil flakes, which catch the light and add a luxe, sun-kissed shimmer. The hand is resting gently on a linen blouse, fingers angled diagonally to display the reflective foil accents. The background is bright sunlight streaming in from a window. The smooth, nourished skin and precise cuticle care elevate the look to chic perfection.

Subtle meets luxe. Soft peach polish paired with irregular gold foil gives off serious “I brunch in silk” energy.

Squoval shapes keep it classy, not fussy.

These nails look expensive without trying too hard—like a spontaneous weekend getaway that somehow includes champagne and charcuterie.

10. Matte Hot Pink Almond Nails

A close-up of a well-moisturized oily shiny woman's hand with five fingers. The nails are almond-shaped and have a bold hot pink matte finish. The nails are set against a vibrant yet velvety background. The matte texture contrasts beautifully with the soft glow of the light, while the moisturized skin adds a radiant, editorial-style finish.

Loud, proud, and a little rebellious.

Hot pink goes matte and turns instantly editorial. Almond shapes add polish, while the matte finish makes it unexpectedly cool.

These nails say, “Yes, I did wake up like this, and no, I’m not sharing my lip gloss.”

11. Citrus Slice Nail Art

A photo of a well-moisturized woman's hand with five fingers featuring playful citrus slice nail art. The nails are almond-shaped with a glossy, tangerine base, complemented by hand-painted lemon, orange, and lime slices. The vibrant fruit accents add a fresh, zesty touch, making the manicure perfect for summer. Natural background lighting enhances the juicy appearance, while the glossy top coat reflects light beautifully. The fingers are slightly fanned out, allowing each citrus detail to be fully appreciated. A softly blurred background with hints of green enhances the refreshing theme.

Wear your fruit salad proudly.

Paint tiny lime, lemon, and orange slices on a nude or pastel background. It’s punchy, playful, and perfect for bottomless brunch.

Want a conversation starter? These nails have you covered.

Bonus points if your drink matches your mani.

12. Fire Coral Nails with White Swirls

A close-up photo of a well-moisturized oily shiny woman's hand with five fingers. The nails are almond-shaped and painted in fiery coral. There are bold, flowing white swirls on the nails. The background is a blurry outdoor setting with natural bright sunlight. The oily skin is glowing and moisturized, perfectly complementing the high-energy coral hue and soft fluid design.

Fire coral is summer’s favorite flirt.

Add white swirls for that ocean wave effect, and suddenly you’ve got movement, contrast, and pure fun.

These nails are bold, beachy, and look amazing with a tan and a messy bun.

Dive in—you know you want to.

13. Rainbow Tips on Clear Gel Base

A close-up of a well-moisturized oily shiny woman's hand with five fingers. Each finger has short, square summer nails with a clear gel base and vivid rainbow-colored French tips. The nails have different tip colors: pink, orange, yellow, green, and blue. The hand is positioned palm-down on a pale denim jacket, with fingers naturally spread. The skin looks shiny, soft, and supple, and the clean cuticle lines make the color contrast crisp and modern. In the background, there are natural outdoor bright blurry sunsets on a mountain, creating tiny reflections on the glossy finish.

Not ready to commit to one color? Same.

Go clear with rainbow tips for a light, airy mani that still packs a punch. It’s fun without being too loud, and it literally matches everything in your closet.

Like the cool friend who never tries too hard.

14. Aqua Marble Nails with Gold Veining

A photo of a woman's hand with long, oval-shaped summer nails in swirling shades of aqua and teal, veined with fine metallic gold lines. The nails have a marble effect that resembles ocean waves. The hand is well-moisturized and oily, with a shiny surface. The background is a blurry ocean view. The photo is taken in bright sunlight.

Ocean vibes, luxury edition.

Swirl together aqua and teal for a watery marble look, then add gold veins for that goddess glow.

It’s high-end vacation energy, even if you’re just at your cousin’s pool party. These nails are here to impress.

15. Popsicle-Inspired Ombré Nails

A close-up shot of a woman's hand with five fingers. The hand is well-moisturized and has oily, shiny skin. The nails are round and have a summer style. They fade from cherry red at the tip to tangerine orange at the base, creating a juicy ombré effect. The nails' color blend resembles melting popsicles. The background is a natural outdoor setting with bright, blurry sunlight and a beach. The hand is lightly curled around a chilled glass, capturing the cold-sweet vibe. The nails have a glossy topcoat and the skin is fresh and radiant. The overall look is playful and nostalgia-filled, evoking the essence of summertime favorites.

Sweet, sticky, and straight-up adorable. Think cherry to tangerine gradients that look like melting popsicles.

Glossy finishes make them extra juicy. It’s nostalgia, but fashion.

Wear them with denim shorts and a popsicle-stained smile. Summer never looked so delicious.

16. Nude Nails with Neon Abstract Lines

A photo of a woman's hand with well-moisturized skin and shiny oil. Her nails are medium-length squares and are painted with a sheer nude base. Each nail has chaotic, vibrant neon lines in electric pink, lime, and cobalt blue. The lines are freestyle patterns that crisscross each nail. The hand is in a relaxed pose. The background is a bright sunny ocean beach. The skin is smooth and the cuticles are clean.

Minimalism meets chaos in the best way.

A sheer nude base sets the stage for wild neon squiggles, swirls, and zigzags.

Think highlighter meets modern art.

It’s creative, edgy, and effortlessly cool—like that one friend who makes messy buns look runway-ready.

17. Ice Cream Cone Accent Nails

A photo of a well-moisturized, shiny, and oily woman's hand with five fingers wearing almond-shaped summer nails in pastel hues. The ring finger has a hand-painted waffle cone base with pink and mint "scoops" and tiny sprinkles. The rest of the nails are soft, creamy shades. The background is a natural outdoor setting with bright, blurry beach sand and palm trees. The oily skin glows with summery hydration.

Yes, you can wear dessert.

Paint waffle cone patterns on one or two accent nails and swirl pastel “scoops” on the rest—mint green, baby pink, maybe even a sprinkle or two.

These nails are sweet, nostalgic, and impossible not to smile at. Total treat.

18. Barely-There Pink with Pearl Beads

A photo of a woman's hand with shiny, oily skin. She is wearing sheer, barely-there pink summer nails adorned with tiny pearl beads near the cuticles. The hand is placed on a surface. The background is an outdoor beach house with an ocean view. The lighting is bright.

Sometimes, less really is more.

A sheer wash of pink paired with tiny pearl beads is effortlessly elegant. It’s giving coastal grandmother meets soft girl.

Perfect for summer weddings, beach dates, or pretending you own a yacht. (Pearls optional. Vibes mandatory.)

19. Sunshine Yellow and Sky Blue Color Block

A photo of a woman's hand in the sunlight. The hand has five fingers and is well-moisturized, shiny, and slightly oily. Each fingernail is square-shaped and painted in a crisp color-block pattern. Half of each nail is sunshine yellow, and the other half is sky blue. The nails are split vertically. The bright polish contrasts beautifully with the hydrated, healthy-looking skin. The background contains a yacht and the ocean.

A combo made in summer heaven.

Bright yellow and calming sky blue split diagonally or vertically create a color-blocked look that’s cheerful without being childish.

It’s modern, bold, and low-key, looks like vacation bottled up into ten perfect rectangles.

20. Butterfly Nail Art with Iridescent Wings

A close-up shot of a woman's hand with long, almond-shaped summer nails. Each nail is decorated with hand-painted butterfly wings in iridescent hues of purple, blue, and pink. Fine black lines and tiny white dots define the wing details. The hand is well-moisturized and shiny, with oily skin. The background is a natural outdoor setting with an orange sky during sunset. The background is blurry. The overall image has a dreamy, enchanted look.

Let your inner fairy out to play.

Tiny butterfly decals or hand-painted wings shimmer with iridescent magic on a soft pastel base.

The result? Whimsical, flirty, and totally enchanting.

These nails are made for catching compliments—and maybe a few hearts too.

21. Mint Green Square Nails with Daisies

A close-up shot of a woman's hand with five fingers, each with a square-shaped summer nail painted in a fresh mint green polish. The ring and middle fingers have tiny white daisy designs with yellow centers. The skin of the hand is well-moisturized, shiny, and oily, appearing soft and luminous. The background is a natural outdoor setting with a blurry orange sky and a setting sun.

Fresh as morning dew. Mint green makes a clean, crisp canvas for tiny hand-painted daisies.

The dainty white petals pop just enough to catch the eye but keep things soft and wearable.

Basically, your nails just became a wildflower field.

22. Tropical Punch Chrome Nails

A close-up image of a woman's hand with five fingers, each with a long almond-shaped summer nail painted in a vibrant chrome finish that shifts between shades of hot pink, tangerine, and golden yellow—reminiscent of tropical punch. The nails are well-moisturized and oily, giving them a shiny appearance. The background contains a natural outdoor setting with a blurry house and a front yard full of flowers. A Mustang car is parked near the house. The overall image has a glimmering effect and radiant skin, making the manicure feel like a poolside cocktail in nail form.

Juicy and loud—in the best way.

Hot pinks, tangerines, and golds shine in a chrome finish that looks straight out of a sunset cocktail.

These nails don’t whisper; they shout. Perfect for pool parties, rooftop nights, or just feeling like that girl.

23. Pastel French with Floral Cuticles

A photo of a woman's hand with well-moisturized, shiny oily skin. The hand has five fingers with soft pastel French tips in lavender, peach, mint, lemon, and baby blue colors. Each nail is outlined on a clear base. There are tiny hand-painted floral dots near the cuticles on each nail. The hand is resting on a lace sleeve, and the fingers are elegantly aligned. The background is a natural outdoor setting, with a blurry picnic in a land of flowers. The glowing oily shiny skin and the dainty details combine to evoke a dreamy, picnic-ready summer vibe.

Flip the French.

Pastel tips on a nude base feel classic until you throw tiny florals at the cuticle. Suddenly, it’s a garden party meets nail art masterpiece.

Soft, unexpected, and seriously cute. Bonus: it works with any pastel you’ve been dying to try.

24. Clear Tips with Encapsulated Glitter

A medium shot of a woman's hand with five fingers. Each finger has a summer nail with clear tips, filled with chunky holographic glitter encapsulated in a gel. The glitter shifts color in the natural outdoor light. The woman is sitting on a beach house chair. The background is a blurry ocean. The moisturized, radiant skin and the high-shine finish make these nails feel festive, fun, and perfect for summer celebrations.

Like confetti trapped in crystal.

These clear-tipped nails sparkle with encapsulated glitter—tiny stars, hearts, or just shimmer.

It’s elegant but fun, like a champagne toast at a surprise party. Light-catching, conversation-starting, and totally mesmerizing.

25. Teal and White Wave Nails

A photo of a well-moisturized woman's hand with coffin-shaped summer nails painted in teal and white wave patterns, mimicking the ocean's movement. The design flows fluidly across each nail with subtle negative space. The background is a natural outdoor setting with a bright, sunny sky and a blurred ocean view.

Make waves—literally.

Teal and white polish swirl together in curvy, flowing lines for a design that screams beach babe.

Works beautifully on almond or coffin shapes. It’s artsy, aquatic, and ready to be shown off with a pair of oversized sunglasses.

26. Sunflower Accent Nails on Nude Base

A photo of a woman's hand with a nude base polish and a bold sunflower accent paint on the nail of the ring finger. The hand is well-moisturized and oily, with a shiny surface. The background is a natural outdoor setting with a bright, blurry orange sky during sunset. The hand is gently resting on a linen sundress, with fingers relaxed. The dewy skin and minimal base allow the sunflower to shine as a radiant, cheerful tribute to long summer days in bloom.

Sunflowers are the main character here.

Paint them big and bold on a few nails, and let the others stay nude or sheer beige. It’s warm, radiant, and totally grounding.

These nails are basically a sunshine-filled picnic for your fingertips.

27. Cherry Red Glossy Nails with Micro Hearts

A photo of a well-moisturized oily and shiny woman's one hand in a relaxed pose showcases five fingers with glossy cherry red summer nails. Tiny white micro hearts are scattered subtly across the surface, like sweet secrets tucked into each nail. The blurry background is a night beach party. The plump red color, paired with glowing skin, gives a flirty, vintage-inspired look full of warmth and charm. The woman is wearing a bikini.

Classic red, but add a twist.

Scatter tiny hearts in black, pink, or white across a glossy crimson base.

The look is flirty, vintage-inspired, and gives major pin-up energy. Wear these when you want to feel bold, romantic, and just a little extra.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33.

34.

35.

36.

37.

38.

39.

Wrap Up

Summer nails are a fun way to show your style and feel fresh all season.

Whether you love bright colors, cute art, or shiny designs, there’s something for everyone.

Try something new and let your nails shine in the sunshine.

You’ll feel happy every time you look down!