If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a modern-day sea goddess, then mermaid-inspired nails might be just the magical makeover you need. From glistening shell details to glittering ocean blues and dreamy pastel gradients, mermaid nails blend whimsy and elegance into one mesmerizing manicure.
Whether you’re beach-bound or simply want your nails to radiate underwater charm, this curated list of 28 stunning mermaid nail designs will help you ride the wave of style. Let’s dive right in!
1/28 – Ocean Stiletto Vibes
Design by: @delilahsbyjess
Show off the magic of the sea with pointed stiletto nails painted in soft blues and sandy neutrals. Add 3D seashells and starfish for that ultimate under-the-sea feel.
2/28 – Elegant Shell Accents
Design by: @katiesnails_
Add elegance to your summer look with subtle French tips and pearly 3D shell art. A tiny pearl at the cuticle finishes the design beautifully.
3/28 – Ombre Cat Eye Effect
Design by: @luxnails09
This look uses shimmering blue cat eye polish over a nude base. Finish with a sculpted shell and a miniature mermaid tail to complete the fantasy.
4/28 – Fun and Flirty Mermaid Tips
Design by: @heygreatnails
These cheerful yellow nails with pink details and tiny starfish charms are perfect for a playful beach getaway.
5/28 – Sleek Pearl Finish
Design by: @nailsby.tiff
Add some glow to a minimal base with chrome powder, delicate gold lines, pearls, and ocean-themed embellishments for a clean, modern take on mermaid nails.
6/28 – Pink Glitter Dream
Design by: @heygreatnails
Shimmery pink nails embody the fun and flirty spirit of a mermaid. A little sparkle goes a long way in creating underwater magic.
7/28 – Scaled and Shimmery
Design by: @heygreatnails
Recreate the scales of a mermaid tail using iridescent polish over a natural base. The French tip variation adds elegance to this whimsical style.
8/28 – Purple Shell Glow
Design by: @heygreatnails
Use vibrant purple glitter polish to shape beautiful shells, and top them off with tiny pearls for a striking summer manicure.
9/28 – Blue Ocean Fantasy
Design by: @heygreatnails
Switch up your shell design by pairing soft blue polish with alternating French tips and full-color nails. A subtle look with aquatic charm.
10/28 – Mermaid Galaxy Blend
Design by: @heygreatnails
Mix metallic blue and soft pink polish to create a swirling galaxy effect. Stir with a nail tool for a marbled finish that resembles the mystical ocean depths.
11/28 – Pink Fantasy Scales
Design by: @heygreatnails
Try soft pink shades and incorporate shell patterns, tiny crystals, and painted scales for a dreamy mermaid-inspired design.
12/28 – DIY Pastel Ocean Art
Design by: @heygreatnails
Light pastel tips in pink and purple paired with adorable sea creature accents like starfish and shells make this a fun, at-home nail project.
13/28 – Textured Scale Art
Design by: @heygreatnails
A basic base color paired with intricate 3D gel sculpting creates a realistic scale texture. It’s challenging—but totally worth it.
14/28 – Refined Beach Beauty
Design by: @heygreatnails
Combine a natural nude base with wave-like 3D textures on sparkly tips for an effortlessly chic mermaid manicure.
15/28 – Soft Ocean Blues
Design by: @heygreatnails
Sometimes, it’s all in the color. This manicure uses delicate shades of blue that evoke a calm, beachy ambiance.
16/28 – Pastel Stiletto Charm
Design by: @dvok_official
Go bold with long stiletto nails in pastel hues. These candy-colored claws scream confidence and coastal vibes.
17/28 – Underwater Shells
Design by: @heygreatnails
This style brings underwater serenity to life, featuring sea-blue tones and detailed shell artwork that mimic the look of ocean ripples.
18/28 – Marbled Blue Waves
Design by: @sansungnails
Create a tranquil, wave-like design with light blue marbling—perfect for anyone who loves oceanic styles without going overboard.
19/28 – Glittery Gradient DIY
Design by: @saemas.nail.obsession
Pick two shimmering colors and blend them for an at-home mermaid gradient look. Just add glitter and you’re golden.
20/28 – Bubble Nail Art
Design by: @learnahstarbuck_nailartist
Use pastel hues topped with pink chrome and add bubble effects using clear gel for an adorable and unique twist on oceanic designs.
21/28 – Gold-Tipped Glam
Design by: @aurakanails
Sleek nude nails with metallic gold tips and minimal 3D elements give off luxurious mermaid vibes—perfect for more formal occasions.
22/28 – Translucent Milky White
Design by: @aurakanails
Opt for a glass-like, milky white polish and subtle aquatic touches to get a clean, classy oceanic look.
23/28 – Playful Sea Creatures
Design by: @thepolishedbotanist
Ask your nail artist to draw cute marine elements like tails and starfish over a natural base. It’s fun, fresh, and totally mermaid-approved.
24/28 – Realistic Mermaid Sculpting
Design by: @amys.clients
If you prefer minimal color, this long almond set with hyper-detailed 3D shells and ocean textures is stunningly lifelike.
