Hair trends fly by more quickly than ever. One minute, the runways are jam-packed with blunt bobs and glass-smooth straight looks. The next moment, all the fashionistas are racing after layered shags, curly natural hair, and balayage sun-kissed highlights.
Social media pushes these styles into the international limelight in a matter of seconds, and salons from across the world are racing to keep pace with such social trends.
From Tokyo's precision bangs to Paris's effortless bangs, the global hair culture is fueled by innovation and reinterpretation.
But what distinguishes the truly exceptional salons is not merely the ability to stay on trend, but it is their expertise at reinterpreting it according to the client's face shape, way of life, and character. That is where top-rated stylists in Santa Monica excel.
Santa Monica's salons have made a name for themselves for taking whatever is popular overseas and mixing it with the relaxed, sea-kissed look the city's famous for. Here, the stylists aren't merely replicating the new 'do from Instagram; they're reinterpreting it for actual human beings who need to look refined without losing that beachy, California ease.
In this guide, we’re spotlighting 30 of the best hair salons Santa Monica has to offer. The places to go for trendy haircuts, flawless hair coloring services, and transformative makeovers are just steps from the Pacific.
Whether you’re after an edgy crop, sunlit highlights, or a full-style reset, you’ll find your match here.
In a city where nearly every other block has a blowout bar, boutique studio, or full-service hair salon, not every place deserves the label of being among the“best hair salons Santa Monica.”
It's not about having a feed on Instagram chock-full of perfect hair photos, but about consistently delivering good results, having a seamless client experience, and keeping ahead of trends without forgetting functional day-to-day sensibility.
Here's what sets the best hair salons Santa Monica apart from the rest:
Beauty choices today begin online. The highest-rated Santa Monica salons are those with high verified Google ratings, frequently 4.2 stars or higher, and supported by extensive, genuine customer reviews. A talented stylist will change your look, but a repeat five-star experience keeps clients returning repeatedly.
The trendy haircuts Santa Monica residents request are just the beginning. Quality salons are also highly skilled in hair coloring services, ranging from balayage and highlights Santa Monica as per the client’s expectations, to accurate color corrections, extensions, keratin treatments, and even scalp treatment. Breadth is important here because style is not one-size-fits-all.
The best stylist in town won't cut it if you can't get an appointment. Top salon booking Santa Monica is much easier, offering same-day or next-day booking, online scheduling, and simple rescheduling. Service management apps like AiOiA are facilitating hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach, easier without a dozen phone calls.
Hairstyles change quickly, and so must the skills behind the chair. The top-rated stylists in Santa Monica typically possess sophisticated training in color theory, state-of-the-art cutting techniques, and brand certifications by top haircare players. This ensures clients aren't receiving just a style, but they're getting it done with expert precision.
The salons we’ve chosen for this list aren’t just popular; they excel in all these areas. They’re the places where skill, service, and convenience meet, and they’re exactly the ones you’ll want to know about before booking your next appointment.
Pro Tip: Craving something truly indulgent? Discover the luxury hair salons in Bakersfield worth every penny for a premium salon experience.
Santa Monica's not just another place to get your hair done. It's a city where personality collides with style. The range of salons here means you can get a perfect match whether you're looking for a speedy pick-me-up, a dramatic makeover, or a bespoke look for a special occasion.
Every genre of studio has its own vibe, methods, and expertise, and understanding the difference can make all the difference in booking with confidence.
These are not your typical barbershops. The best hair salons for men in Santa Monica blend high-precision barbering with contemporary salon service.
Fades are crisp, scissor cuts are fitted for your facial shape, and beard trims feature sharp edges and detail work. Others even include add-ons such as scalp treatments or subtle coloring for men who just want to cover up greys without having an obvious “dyed” look.
It's a combination of effectiveness and chicness, ideal for career-goers and style-savvy gentlemen alike.
A hair makeover for women in Santa Monica is not a cut and color; it's a complete transformation. These studios emphasize the full haircut packages Santa Monica: reworking your cut, creating dimensional color (balayage, highlights, or full-color), and topping off with styling that can go from a quick brunch to black-tie.
They also specialize in a robust bridal portfolio, making them a first pick for wedding day preparation.
For those who prefer a one-stop shop, a unisex hair salon in Santa Monica offers services for both men and women under one roof. You’ll find top-rated stylists in Santa Monica skilled in men’s precision cuts, women’s layered styles, and everything in between, including coloring, treatments, and styling.
These spaces are great for families, couples, or anyone who values versatility and convenience. The best unisex salons here offer a variety of salon services for different hair textures, styles, and individual preferences, and thus everyone receives a customized experience.
Pro Tip: If you like the flexibility of unisex salon services, you’ll also want to see the best salons in Fremont, which cater to both men and women with diverse service menus.
Some salons are laser-sharp on hair coloring services Santa Monica customers love. These are the spots to visit for balayage mixes, artistic, vibrant colors, and professional color correction in case your previous dye session didn't go as intended.
They tend to employ advanced methods such as color melting or foliage to attain that immaculately smooth finish.
Need polished locks without the commitment of a full session? Blowout bars provide quick, flawless styling, loose beach waves to sleek, glass-like shine.
They're a popular choice before events, photo shoots, or a night on the town, particularly for clients seeking instant confidence with less effort.
These salons are designed for those who wish to celebrate or augment their natural texture. From curl-cutting techniques to keratin smoothing treatments that smooth frizz, these professionals know that not all hair requires the same treatment.
Services such as deep hydration masks and bond repair treatments also make them a destination for those seeking to restore hair health.
Santa Monica's range of salon types means you can book with intention. Whether you're a man in need of a new, crisp cut, a woman in need of a complete hair transformation, or someone who likes the ease of an unisex hair salon that offers it all.
There are the best hair salons Santa Monica designed for what you want. One that will have you walking out feeling like the best version of you.
Pro Tip: Want to explore more California beauty hubs? Check out our guide to the best hair salons in Los Angeles for trendy cuts & color for even more style inspiration.
Santa Monica harbors more than lovely beaches; it's a hub for style innovation, creative color space, and a place for statement-making cuts. These salons have been selected for their expertise, service, and potential to provide everything from on-trend cuts to perfect balayage and highlighting.
Whether you’re planing for salon booking Santa Monica a quick trim, a full hair makeover near Santa Monica beach, or a fresh hair coloring service to match the season, these 30 studios represent the very best in the city. Each one has earned its place through high client ratings, stylist expertise, and a track record of leaving customers looking and feeling their absolute best.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (310 reviews)
Specialties: Balayage and highlights, precision haircuts, keratin smoothing treatments Santa Monica
Luxe Locks Studio is where professional hairstyling in Santa Monica meets artistry. Known for flawless balayage and highlights that mimic the natural glow of a California sunset, the salon’s top-rated stylists in Santa Monica are experts in creating dimension and depth without overprocessing.
Clients often come here for low-maintenance blonde hair, soft caramel ribbons, or bold face-framing pops of color. Haircuts are just as thoughtfully executed, from textured long layers to trendy haircuts Santa Monica influencers love, every style is tailored to your face shape and lifestyle.
The studio also offers keratin smoothing treatments to fight coastal humidity, perfect for anyone tired of frizz after a beach day. Their consultations are detailed and collaborative, ensuring you walk out with a style that works for you.
Located just steps from the pier, Luxe Locks pairs the artistry of a high-end salon with the warmth of a neighborhood favorite, making it a must-visit for anyone serious about their hair.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (275 reviews)
Specialties: Signature blowouts, quick styling services, and hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach,
When you need to look flawless fast, the Blowout Bar is your answer. Specializing in beachy waves, sleek blowouts, and red carpet hairstyles, this salon is a go-to for pre-event prep. Locals love it for last-minute styling appointments before weddings, parties, or photoshoots.
Beyond blowouts, they offer express hair coloring services that clients book for root touch-ups or toning between full color appointments. The team knows how to work with all hair types, from fine strands to voluminous curls, using heat-protective techniques to keep hair healthy.
The space is chic yet relaxed, making every appointment feel indulgent but not intimidating. Their stylists are also experts at volumizing techniques, ensuring styles last from brunch to evening cocktails. Located near upscale shopping and dining, The Blowout Bar is ideal for pairing beauty prep with a day out in Santa Monica.
Google Rating: 4.7/5 (198 reviews)
Specialties: Hair coloring services, dimensional brunettes, corrective color, and low-maintenance blonde Santa Monica.
Ocean Breeze Hair Co. is all about color perfection. Whether you’re craving rich chocolate brown, icy platinum blonde, or muted pastel shades, their stylists deliver results that are vibrant yet wearable.
They excel in color correction, rescuing clients from uneven tones or at-home dye disasters. Cuts are equally thoughtful, from modern shags to precision bobs; they create shapes that complement your features and work with your natural texture.
Known for luxury hair treatments like deep hydration masks and glossing services, this salon keeps your hair looking healthy long after your appointment. Clients appreciate the coastal-inspired atmosphere, think airy interiors and calming ocean tones, making every visit feel like a retreat.
Ocean Breeze’s mix of technical skill and laid-back charm has made it a favorite for locals seeking a balance between trend and timeless style.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (152 reviews)
Specialties: Balayage and highlight, bridal hair Santa Monica, hair extensions
Sunset Strands is synonymous with sun-kissed color. Their balayage specialists create blends so natural, it’s impossible to tell where your highlights begin. Brides-to-be flock here for bridal hairstyling that holds through every hug, dance, and photo, making it one of the top-rated places for hair makeover for women in Santa Monica.
Their hair extension services add instant volume or length without compromising hair health. Sunset Strands also offers gloss treatments to enhance shine and prolong color vibrancy, a favorite among clients who want that “just-stepped-out-of-the-salon” look for weeks.
With sweeping ocean views from their styling chairs, the experience here is as indulgent as the results. It’s a go-to for clients seeking low-maintenance blonde techniques, lived-in color, and personalized service that never feels rushed.
Whether it’s your wedding day or you are looking for special occasion hair Santa Monica, Sunset Strands ensures you leave looking effortlessly polished.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (184 reviews)
Specialties: Creative haircuts, hair coloring services, textured haircuts Santa Monica
The Hair Loft is a haven for those who see their hair as a canvas. Specializing in bold hair transformations and trendy haircuts Santa Monica fashionistas adore, their top-rated stylists in Santa Monica approach each appointment with creativity and precision.
Color services range from balayage to color melting, delivering seamless gradients and vibrant tones. They’re also experts in curly hair cuts and treatments, ensuring texture is celebrated, not tamed.
Clients often book here for a full hair makeover near Santa Monica beach, combining a dramatic cut with a fresh color and finishing style. The space is relaxed yet stylish, with plenty of natural light to appreciate your new look.
Their commitment to hair health means you’ll leave not only looking amazing, but also feeling confident that your style will last.
Note: Planning a trip to Northern California? Pair your visit with a stop at one of the best nail salons in San Francisco for a luxurious mani-pedi experience.
Google Rating: 4.7/5 (212 reviews)
Specialties: Balayage and highlights, beach wave styling Santa Monica, restorative treatments, and keratin smoothing treatments Santa Monica.
BeachWave Hair Lounge is where California coastal style meets high-end salon expertise. Known for effortless beachy wave styling, they master the art of low-maintenance blonde that grows out beautifully.
Their balayage specialists use freehand painting to create sunlit dimension, while their glossing treatments keep hair vibrant and smooth. Clients love their deep conditioning rituals, perfect after a summer of saltwater and sun exposure.
The laid-back, surf-inspired space makes every visit feel like a mini vacation, and their stylists excel at haircuts for fine hair and layered styles that add movement without bulk.
Whether you’re prepping for vacation or refreshing your everyday look, BeachWave Hair Lounge is the perfect blend of relaxed and refined.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (145 reviews)
Specialties: Hair coloring services, vivid color, keratin treatments, textured haircuts Santa Monica
Gloss & Glam Studio lives up to its name, delivering mirror-like shine and rich, head-turning color. They’re particularly known for vivid hair color transformations.
Think jewel-toned purples, electric blues, and fiery reds, all done with professional-grade care to maintain hair health. Their keratin smoothing treatments are a lifesaver for those battling frizz in the coastal climate.
The top-rated stylists in Santa Monica here are also experts in dimensional brunette and balayage blends, ensuring your color looks dynamic in any light. Clients praise their attention to detail, from the initial consultation to personalized at-home care recommendations.
It’s the unisex hair salon in Santa Monica for anyone ready to make a bold statement without sacrificing hair health.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (178 reviews)
Specialties: Trendy haircuts Santa Monica, precision bobs, pixie cuts
Salon Pacifica is the go-to spot for precision haircuts and sharp, statement styles. Their top-rated stylists in Santa Monica specialize in short hair transformations, from bobs and lobs to pixies, that are customized to suit your features and styling habits.
They also deliver professional hair coloring services and low-maintenance blonde Santa Monica clients trust, from natural tones to bold color blocking. The atmosphere is modern yet approachable, with stylists who know how to balance creative edge with everyday wearability.
Clients often say their cuts grow out beautifully, meaning fewer trips to the salon without sacrificing style. Perfect for those who see a haircut as an investment in their look.
Google Rating: 4.7/5 (165 reviews)
Specialties: Hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach, extensions, color refresh
Ocean Luxe Hair is synonymous with complete transformations. Whether you want luxury hair extensions for volume and length or a full cut-and-color revamp, their stylists deliver big results with meticulous attention to detail.
Known for blonde balayage and root melts, they create seamless color blends that last. Clients love the warm, welcoming environment and the way stylists explain every step of the process.
Located just minutes from the shoreline, it’s a local favorite for special occasion hair Santa Monica or vacation-ready styling.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (198 reviews)
Specialties: Balayage and highlights, hair glossing, layered cuts
Halo Hair Collective is all about healthy, radiant hair. Their balayage technique is among the most sought-after in the city, creating soft, blended highlights that require minimal upkeep.
They also offer custom hair glossing treatments to add shine and lock in color vibrancy. Cuts here range from soft, layered styles to bold, trendy haircuts Santa Monica locals love for their versatility.
Clients appreciate the focus on maintaining hair health, with stylists recommending tailored aftercare to keep styles looking fresh between appointments.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (210 reviews)
Specialties: Hair coloring services, color correction, ombré
The Color Room is where hair color becomes an art form. Specializing in hair coloring services Santa Monica clients trust, the salon has built its reputation on flawless application, custom formulas, and a knack for enhancing natural beauty.
They’re experts in color correction, skillfully fixing uneven tones, over-processed strands, and at-home dye jobs gone wrong. Popular services include ombré blends, balayage, and rich single-process colors that deliver both vibrancy and shine.
The stylists here know that the right tone can completely change your look, so consultations are thorough, discussing lifestyle, maintenance, and desired results before a single brush stroke.
Their bright, modern salon space is designed to make every appointment feel special, whether you’re coming in for a quick refresh or a dramatic transformation. Clients leave with hair that not only looks stunning under the salon lights but also stays fresh and manageable for weeks.
Google Rating: 4.7/5 (134 reviews)
Specialties: Hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach, extensions, texture styling
Wave & Weave is all about adding movement, texture, and volume to your style. Their team specializes in hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach, perfect for anyone looking to pair a fresh new look with the coastal vibe.
Services include beach wave perms, luxury extensions for length or fullness, and hair coloring services Santa Monica locals rely on for vibrant tones and seamless blends.
They excel in working with different textures, from fine, straight hair to bouncy curls, tailoring each cut and color to your natural movement. The salon’s haircut packages Santa Monica are especially popular, offering a complete transformation in one visit: cut, color, styling, and even extension application.
The relaxed, friendly atmosphere means you’ll feel comfortable discussing bold changes or subtle tweaks, knowing the team will execute your vision with precision. And being just minutes from the shoreline, it’s the ideal pre-event or vacation stop.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (156 reviews)
Specialties: Trendy haircuts Santa Monica, luxury treatments, special occasion styling
Crown & Glory Hair Studio combines upscale service with a warm, approachable vibe. Known for trendy haircuts Santa Monica residents love, their stylists have a gift for balancing what’s on-trend with what flatters your unique features.
Cuts range from modern layered styles to precision bobs and fringe trims, all tailored to your hair type and daily routine. For those prepping for a special day, their event and bridal styling services ensure you look camera-ready from every angle.
The salon also offers luxury scalp treatments and deep conditioning rituals that keep your hair healthy between appointments, a must in the sunny, salt-air climate. Clients appreciate the detailed consultations, where stylists discuss maintenance, styling tips, and seasonal hair care.
It’s a place where you can try something bold or stick to your signature look, knowing you’re in skilled hands.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (140 reviews)
Specialties: Balayage and highlights, platinum blonding, tone correction
Blonde Ambition is a haven for anyone obsessed with perfect blonde tones, and for good reason. Their balayage and highlights Santa Monica services are among the most sought-after, with stylists creating everything from sun-kissed honey hues to icy platinum finishes.
They’re also experts at tone correction, ensuring blondes stay vibrant and brass-free. What sets them apart is their ability to deliver high-impact lightening without compromising hair health, using bond-strengthening treatments and careful processing.
The salon caters to all hair types, offering precision cuts that enhance the color, whether it’s layered waves, blunt bobs, or face-framing lobs. Many clients book seasonal refreshes here, keeping their blonde luminous year-round.
The airy, stylish space makes appointments feel like a treat, and the attention to detail ensures you’ll leave with hair that turns heads in every setting.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (172 reviews)
Specialties: Hair coloring services, smoothing treatments, bobs, and lobs
Serenity Hair Lounge lives up to its name with a calm, spa-like atmosphere that’s perfect for self-care days. Known for hair coloring services Santa Monica clients trust, they excel in multi-tone blends, balayage, and lowlight techniques that add depth and shine.
Their smoothing treatments tame frizz without weighing hair down, making them a top choice for those dealing with coastal humidity. Stylists here are masters of bobs and lobs, classic cuts that are endlessly versatile and grow out beautifully.
Every appointment starts with a detailed consultation to ensure the style suits your lifestyle, whether you want a chic, low-maintenance look or something with more edge. The focus on maintaining hair health means you’ll leave with a style that not only looks incredible but also feels nourished and manageable.
Clients often say Serenity Hair Lounge is their go-to for a refresh that’s equal parts relaxing and transformative.
Note: If you’re all about natural treatments and scalp care, explore the best hair spas in Livermore for natural hair treatments.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (188 reviews)
Specialties: Hair coloring services, balayage, creative cuts
Radiance Hair Studio is all about creating hair that glows, in tone, in style, and in confidence. Known for their premium hair coloring services Santa Monica residents love, they excel in balayage, foliage, and color melting techniques that deliver rich dimension and seamless blends.
Their stylists are equally skilled in creative cuts, from edgy undercuts to softly layered lobs, ensuring the perfect frame for your face. Clients praise their ability to translate inspiration photos into wearable, low-maintenance looks that suit both work and leisure.
Radiance also offers custom gloss treatments to enhance shine and protect color between visits. The bright, airy interior feels modern yet welcoming, with a friendly team that makes every appointment feel collaborative.
For those looking to update their style without overhauling their entire look, Radiance is the perfect place to start.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (164 reviews)
Specialties: Trendy haircuts Santa Monica, textured styles, scalp treatments
The Hair Haven lives up to its name as a retreat for both hair and mind. Specializing in trendy haircuts Santa Monica locals request from layered wolf cuts to sleek, blunt bobs, the salon embraces individuality while keeping styles current.
They also cater to a variety of textures, offering curly hair shaping, razor cuts, and smoothing techniques for straighter styles. Their scalp treatments are a standout, promoting hair health from the roots and boosting growth potential.
Clients love the in-depth consultations, where stylists help select cuts and colors that complement both personality and lifestyle. The vibe here is warm and inviting, making it easy to relax and trust your stylist’s expertise.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (149 reviews)
Specialties: Balayage and highlights, corrective color, precision cuts
Coastal Color & Cut is where sun-kissed balayage meets meticulous cutting techniques. Their stylists are masters at creating lived-in highlights, soft root shadows, and dimension-rich brunettes.
They’re also highly skilled in corrective color work, fixing brassy tones or uneven results with precision. Haircuts are tailored to enhance the coloring process, think long layers to show off balayage blends or blunt cuts for a sleek, polished finish.
Many clients book full-service appointments here, combining color, cut, and a bond-repair treatment to keep hair healthy.
The ocean-view setting adds to the relaxed yet upscale atmosphere, making each visit feel like a little getaway.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (173 reviews)
Specialties: Hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach, luxury treatments, event styling
Shear Elegance is all about transformation. Known for full hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach, they deliver complete style revamps that often combine precision cutting, advanced coloring, and luxury treatments in one sitting.
Clients love their expertise in event styling, from elegant updos to beachy waves perfect for photoshoots. Their treatment menu includes deep hydration masks, protein rebuilding therapies, and glossing services to lock in shine.
The stylists here are attentive and creative, working closely with each client to ensure the final result matches their vision or exceeds it entirely.
Whether you want a dramatic change or a subtle update, Shear Elegance ensures you leave feeling elevated.
Google Rating: 4.7/5 (160 reviews)
Specialties: Hair coloring services, low-maintenance blonde, modern cuts
SeaSalt Hair Co. captures the essence of coastal living in every style they create. Their hair coloring services Santa Monica clients adore often center around low-maintenance blonde techniques, soft balayage blends, and natural root smudges that grow out beautifully.
Haircuts are modern and versatile, think shaggy lobs, textured layers, and blunt fringes that frame the face perfectly. They also offer conditioning and gloss treatments to maintain hair’s health in the sun-and-salt-heavy climate.
The relaxed, beach-inspired decor pairs perfectly with the salon’s easygoing yet detail-focused approach, making every visit as enjoyable as the results.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (138 reviews)
Specialties: Hair coloring services, glossing, shine treatments
The Gloss House is all about bringing brilliance back to your hair. Their hair coloring services Santa Monica clients rave about often include a custom glossing session, designed to refresh color, add reflective shine, and smooth the cuticle.
They’re masters at enhancing existing tones, whether it’s balayage and highlights Santa Monica residents love, rich brunettes, or vibrant reds. Cuts here are tailored to show off your color, with popular requests including soft layers, angled bobs, and face-framing trims.
The salon’s minimalist, airy interior provides a calm space to relax while your stylist works their magic. Many clients come in for seasonal color refreshes paired with deep-conditioning treatments to keep hair healthy all year long.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (154 reviews)
Specialties: Balayage and highlights, layered cuts, beach wave styling Santa Monica
Pacific Tresses is a love letter to coastal beauty. Known for their sunlit balayage and hand-painted highlights, they create color that feels fresh from the beach yet perfectly polished for city life.
Their layered cuts are customized to enhance movement, making them a favorite for clients who want hair that looks great with minimal styling. Beach wave styling is a signature service here, often paired with hair coloring services Santa Monica locals book for a full transformation.
Clients appreciate the personalized consultations, where top-rated stylists in Santa Monica blend trend inspiration with practical advice for everyday wear.
Google Rating: 4.7/5 (162 reviews)
Specialties: Hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach, luxury coloring, precision cuts
Velvet Strand delivers dramatic transformations with a luxurious touch. Specializing in hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach, they often combine color, cut, and treatments for a total refresh.
Their coloring work spans dimensional brunettes, platinum blondes, and creative pastel shades, all achieved with meticulous application. Cuts are executed with precision, whether you’re opting for a sleek bob, a voluminous layered look, or trendy haircuts Santa Monica influencers showcase.
Velvet Strand’s luxe interior, paired with attentive service, makes every appointment feel special.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (141 reviews)
Specialties: Hair coloring services, balayage, smoothing treatments
Shine + Co. is all about glossy, healthy-looking hair. Their hair coloring services Santa Monica clients love include balayage, ombre, and tonal glossing, all designed to create depth and shine without damaging the hair.
They also offer smoothing treatments that keep styles frizz-free even on humid beach days. Popular cuts here range from blunt lobs to layered shags, often paired with a color refresh for a complete style update.
The friendly, down-to-earth team ensures every appointment feels collaborative and relaxed.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (127 reviews)
Specialties: Balayage and highlights, creative styling, special occasion hair
Driftwood Hair Studio blends artistry with a coastal-chic vibe. Their balayage and highlights Santa Monica services are known for soft, natural blends that work with the hair’s natural fall.
The salon also excels in creative styling for special occasions, from loose boho braids to polished updos. They offer customized color services to suit your skin tone and personal style, ensuring every client leaves with a look that feels uniquely theirs.
The intimate setting and attentive staff make Driftwood a go-to for those who value both skill and personal connection.
Note: Prefer East Bay style? Take a look at the best hair salons in Fairfield for a fresh new look.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (136 reviews)
Specialties: Trendy haircuts Santa Monica, modern bobs, balayage blends
The Hair Edit is where sharp, fashion-forward styles meet everyday wearability. Known for trendy haircuts Santa Monica style enthusiasts love, this salon specializes in modern bobs, layered lobs, and textured cuts that are easy to style at home.
Their color work is equally strong, with balayage blends and root smudging techniques that grow out gracefully. Many clients book cut-and-color combos here for a complete look update, often paired with bond-repair treatments to keep hair strong.
The sleek, contemporary space matches the precision and polish of their work, making The Hair Edit a favorite among those who want their hair to look effortlessly styled every day.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (119 reviews)
Specialties: Balayage and highlights, sunkissed blonding, gloss treatments
Beach Glow Hair Studio lives up to its name by delivering the ultimate California blonde. Their balayage and highlights Santa Monica clients adore, are customized to mimic natural, sunlit tones, perfect for that beach-ready vibe.
Gloss treatments are a staple here, sealing in shine and enhancing color depth. They also offer dimensional brunettes and soft caramel highlights, catering to clients who want warmth and richness in their look.
The airy, beach-inspired decor sets the tone for a relaxing experience, and the stylists’ precision ensures your hair not only looks amazing on day one but stays fresh and vibrant for weeks.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (146 reviews)
Specialties: Hair coloring services, precision cuts, smoothing treatments
Polished + Perfect delivers exactly what the name promises. Their hair coloring services Santa Monica clients rave about include natural balayage, all-over gloss, and vivid color transformations.
Precision haircuts are another specialty, with stylists trained to create clean, flattering shapes that complement the client’s features. Smoothing treatments are popular for those who want frizz-free, silky hair in the coastal climate.
Clients value the combination of technical skill and approachable service, making it a go-to for both low-maintenance styles and bold changes.
Google Rating: 4.9/5 (132 reviews)
Specialties: Hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach, event styling, volume boosting
Glow + Flow is all about delivering confidence-boosting transformations. Specializing in hair makeovers near Santa Monica beach, they combine expert coloring, cutting, and styling for a complete refresh.
Event styling is a highlight here, with updos, curls, and waves designed to last through photos, dancing, and coastal breezes. Their volume-boosting blowouts are a favorite for clients preparing for special occasions or just wanting to feel extra polished.
The warm, friendly atmosphere paired with high attention to detail ensures you leave with hair that makes a statement.
Google Rating: 4.8/5 (125 reviews)
Specialties: Balayage and highlights, lived-in color, layered cuts
Tides Hair Collective brings the laid-back spirit of the ocean into every appointment. Known for balayage and highlights Santa Monica residents love, they specialize in lived-in color that’s easy to maintain and grows out seamlessly.
Layered cuts are tailored to work with the client’s natural texture, enhancing movement and body. The salon’s relaxed yet professional environment makes it a favorite for those who want a collaborative experience.
The stylists take time to understand your lifestyle and hair goals before recommending a plan. From subtle shifts to bold transformations, Tides Hair Collective delivers styles that look as effortless as they feel.
Step into any of the best hair salons Santa Monica this year, and you’ll notice one thing: nobody’s playing it safe.
2025 has brought a mix of bold color choices, fresh cuts, and glossy finishes that manage to be both on-trend and totally wearable for the coastal lifestyle. The top-rated stylists in Santa Monica are masters at blending global runway looks with low-maintenance, beach-friendly adaptations that suit the city’s laid-back vibe.
This season, hair coloring customers' preferences revolve around dimension and contrast.
Pastel colors such as muted mint, peachy pink, and pale lavender are back, but in a more mature, mixed-up sense than full-head blocks of pastel color. Dimensional brunettes are also a huge trend, layering chocolate-based richness with caramel or honey ribbons for depth that catches the light stunningly.
And of course, balayage and highlights Santa Monica colorists are known to remain highly sought after, but with a twist. Rather than heavy streaks, imagine softer blends with strategic spots of brightness around the face. The aim? Effortless color that still seems purposeful.
Pro Tip: If rich color transformations are your thing, you might also love our picks for the top-rated hair salons in Fresno for stunning cuts & colors.
For cuts, 2025 is the year to move. Butterfly layers are at the forefront, creating volume at the crown and gentle, face-framing pieces that blend into longer layers. Short bobs, either blunt for a statement look or softly textured for versatility, are also stirring things up.
And the retro shag? It's back, but updated with smoother finishes that are suitable for anything from a coffee stop to a boardroom meeting. These trendy haircuts Santa Monica stylists provide are usually adjusted to fit the texture of one's hair, so even those who have curls or fine hair can pull them off easily.
In a city where ocean breeze and sunlight are everyday companions, the style trends must balance between sleek and casual. Soft waves remain the reigning champion, low-maintenance and ideal for that “just returned from the beach” vibe.
Glass hair, however, is taking center stage for nights out or A-list gatherings. Attained with precise cuts, smoothing treatments, and shine-enhancing products, it's a dramatic look that cries out for sophistication.
Innovatively, these trends directly impact salon booking Santa Monica. Clients who are visiting for hair makeovers around Santa Monica beach tend to combine a new haircut with a color treatment in order to get the most out of the change. A chin-length bob cut combined with frosty blonde highlights, or long butterfly layers with balayage sun-kissed highlights, is the type of combination that fills up appointment books.
Santa Monica's best stylists understand that style isn't so much about emulating what's on trend, but it's about interpreting those styles in a way that resonates as personal. And in 2025, the combination of artful color work, practical cuts, and sleek-but-low-maintenance styling is irresistible.
Scheduling your appointment at one of the best hair salons Santa Monica is just half of the picture; the other half is ensuring that you leave with the very look that you've been envisioning.
The difference between a good appointment and a “wow, I look great” makeover is sometimes nothing more than preparation, communication, and follow-up. So, let’s focus on some key tips that can help you get the most out of your salon visit.
Stylists love it when clients arrive prepared. If you're looking for trendy Santa Monica haircuts or a certain color or a specific shade from the latest hair coloring services Santa Monica trend list, bring reference photos. These are not just for inspiration, but allow your stylist to know precisely what you have in your mind.
The good stylist will hear you out, but they'll also guide you to what suits your face shape, life, and maintenance comfort level. Say, for instance, that balayage and highlights Santa Monica hairdo you picked up on Pinterest may require adjusting if your own natural color or the condition of your hair requires it. Their task isn't merely to copy, but to interpret magnificently.
If you’re booking a major change, like a full hair makeover near Santa Monica beach, give yourself enough time before a big event in case any adjustments are needed. For seasonal rush periods (summer weddings, holiday parties), book weeks in advance.
Most of the top salons provide haircut packages Santa Monica for greater value and outcome. Coupling a trim with a color retouch or installing a gloss treatment after highlights can take the final result to the next level.
Pro Tip: Love the idea of pairing a fresh cut with some pampering? Explore the top nail salons in San Jose for luxe manicures & spa experiences for the ultimate self-care day.
What you do afterward is equally vital. Request product advice from your stylist on how to keep the shine going, avoid color fade, and extend the fresh look of your cut.
The top-rated stylists in Santa Monica tend to have repeat client lists because they establish rapport. When your stylist is aware of your hair history and likes, each visit improves.
By showing up to your appointment as a partnership rather than an isolated service, you won't just depart looking amazing, but you'll be able to book again knowing you're in good hands. And when your hair's in the care of Santa Monica's finest, that's precisely the kind of rotation you want to be on.
In a city full of hair studio choices, discovering the perfect salon can seem like scrolling indefinitely with no idea which reviews to believe. That's where AiOiA comes in, making it easy for Santa Monica residents to connect with the local area's most talented stylists and top-rated salons.
This guide is all about assisting you in discovering the best hair salons Santa Monica has to offer, but AiOiA covers so much more than just hair.
Within the app, users can also discover car washes, gyms and fitness studios, spas, and pretty much any other service they need locally, all supported by checked facts, reviews, and the ability to book.
From balayage and highlights experts are famous for, a same-day hair transformation off Santa Monica beach, or even a highly rated auto detailer, it's all there.
AiOiA is not another directory; it's a professional service management app that simplifies discovery and booking.
Why locals love AiOiA:
Verified Listings – All profiles feature exact business details, services provided, and legitimate ratings.
Easy Booking – Book your appointment immediately without multiple calls or paperwork.
Service Variety – From hair coloring services beloved by Santa Monica residents to home cleaning and car care.
Location-Based Discovery – Discover the top providers in the vicinity of your neighborhood or favorite city locations.
It's not just helpful for consumers. Business from salons to car washes, and other service providers can add their profiles to AiOiA to get noticed, draw in new customers, and book more appointments without additional marketing expense.
With the AiOiA professional service management app available on both iOS and Android, it's the easiest way for consumers to find quality, vetted local services and for businesses to expand their audience in Santa Monica and beyond.
Great hair is not only about the color or cut, but it's about how you feel when you walk out the door. In Santa Monica, that moment is in the hands of stylists who combine art, skill, and an acute understanding of what makes each client special.
From sunny balayage and highlights to precision and trendy cuts, this city's best hair studios demonstrate that style is just as much about personality as it is about trends. And with so many skilled experts in one city, your ideal hair day is not a matter of chance; it's a matter of choice.
So whether you’re booking a subtle refresh or planning a bold hair makeover, let this guide be your starting point. Because in Santa Monica, every day can be a good hair day, and the right stylist can make it unforgettable.
Pro Tip: From Santa Monica to Santa Rosa, great hair is never far away. Discover our top-rated salons & spas in Santa Rosa for skin & soul care to keep your style game strong across California.
The best hair salons Santa Monica offers are those with top Google ratings, skilled stylists, and services ranging from cuts and coloring to treatments and extensions. Many also specialize in balayage and highlights Santa Monica clients love for a natural, sun-kissed finish.
For trendy haircuts Santa Monica is known for, prices generally start around $60–$80 for a basic cut and can go above $150 for precision or specialty cuts with top-rated stylists.
Many local studios provide same-day or next-day bookings, especially for quick trims or styling. If you’re planning a major hair makeover near Santa Monica beach, it’s best to book in advance to secure your preferred time.
From subtle tone adjustments to full transformations, hair coloring services Santa Monica salons provide include balayage, highlights, lowlights, vivid colors, and color corrections.
The top-rated stylists in Santa Monica are professionals with strong portfolios, high client ratings, advanced training, and a reputation for translating trends into wearable, flattering styles.
Balayage is a freehand hair coloring technique that creates a soft, blended look without harsh regrowth lines. It’s popular here because it pairs perfectly with Santa Monica’s relaxed, coastal vibe.
Absolutely. Many salons in the area offer haircut packages Santa Monica, combining cuts, color, and styling, making it easy to walk out with a full transformation just steps from the shore.
AiOiA is the ultimate appointment booking system, offering seamless scheduling and effortless table reservations to enhance your business efficiency.
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