Trust Me: These Pretty Summer Nail Colors Will Give You Major Vacation Vibes

Of the many things filling up your pre-vacation to-do list—buy a bikini, find the perfect sunscreen, check your passport expiration date—arguably the most fun is booking in for that all-important pre-travel manicure. It’s usually one of the last things I do the day before I fly in order to get optimal wear out of my new nails, so for me, that routine manicure is the moment I finally relax and switch my brain into vacation mode.

When it comes to choosing my vacation nail colors, I like consider what suits the occasion but also what’s trending. “The summer trends this year are influenced by nostalgic aesthetics, innovative textures, and bold color choices,” says Priscilla Nguyen, Aprés Nail Educator. “They reflect a desire for self-expression and playfulness, allowing people to showcase their personalities and creativity through their nail choices.”

Personally, I want something that will give me a mini serotonin boost every time I glance down at my nails. Sometimes, that means bright tropical colors like lime green and fiery coral, but often, my go-to is a fresh white, which looks oh so good with a tan, or a suitably beachy beige. With vacation season fast approaching, even those of you who don’t have any trips booked may still be in the mood for a summery switch-up at your next nail appointment. Scroll down for the vacation nail colors perfect for summer 2025.

Tropical escape nails

Bright Coral

Nothing says “out of office and ready for the beach” quite like a fiery coral mani. Perfect for tropical destinations, sunset-inspired coral looks chic and fun on both short and long nails.

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Cobalt Blue

Cobalt blue is arguably the color of summer, as we’ve already spotted our fair share of bikinis, handbags, and sandals in the hue. Tie your look together (or sport a contrasting pop of color if you typically dress in neutrals) with this eye-catching blue.

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City slicker nails

Fresh White

It might sound boring, but really, a crisp cool-toned white is the ultimate chic nail color. As it’s versatile enough to work with all manner of outfit combinations and skin tones, you really can’t go wrong.

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Sandy Beige

If neutrals really are more your bag than bright pops of color, why not try a beach-inspired sandy beige?

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Beach town getaway nails

Baby Pink

Delicate hues of pink have been trending since the start of the year, so by summer, expect to see them everywhere. If you like a mani that appears fresh and clean and won’t look obvious when it grows out, this is definitely a safe option.

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Lime Green

Another vacation classic, a bright and zesty lime green works well for both manicures and pedicures for major summer vibes.

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This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.