If you’re thinking of a new look that captures the dreamy magic of the ocean, mermaid nails are the perfect way to do it! With shimmering scales, iridescent finishes, and seashell accents, these designs bring the mermaid fantasy right to your fingertips. The trend is making waves on TikTok and Instagram, with gorgeous inspirations from The Little Mermaid live-action movie starring Halle Bailey.
Whether you prefer a minimalist mani with cool colours or a dazzling look with glittery effects, this curated list of 50 mermaid nail ideas has something for everyone. Try coral details, starfish, or even fruit nails like pineapple nails and watermelon nails for a playful summer look.
With summer 2025 coming up, now is the time to embrace the mermaidcore aesthetic! A wave of trendy designs is hitting the fashion scene, featuring metallic elements, mermaid tails, and supreme under-the-sea inspiration. Whether you’re adorning your nails for a beachside resort, a view party, or just exploring fresh nail art approaches, these ideas are sure to make a splash.
Mix in some eyeshadow-like blends for a bright, vibrant effect or add fashion pieces like tiny shells for extra detail. From mermaid effects to bringing the magic of the ocean to life, these designs will have you diving into the weather of summer with gorgeous, trendy, and inspiring nails!
1. Mermaid Nail Designs for Summer
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Image Credit: @ False Nails
If you love the ocean and mermaid nails, this is the perfect time out to try mermaid nail designs! Whether you’re planning a Disney vacation or want to feel like the princesses, these nails are inspired by the sea and are a great way to showcase your dream summer vacation look.
2. Mermaid Nail Bold & Elegant Designs
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Image Credit: @ Ella___Ward
Nothing beats mermaid nails when it comes to making a statement! The right colour choice can turn them into spectacular works of art, whether you’re going for elegant marble nails or fun summer nails. A soft pink touch adds charm, while bold ocean shades fit any special occasion. No matter your favourite style, these mermaid nail ideas are simply perfect!
3. Minimal Seashell Nails for Weddings
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Image Credit: @ Byrdie
For a minimal yet stunning design, seashell nails with 3D sculpted details and pearly finishes are the perfect choice. These subtle and delicate mermaid core nails are great for beach weddings and add a fresh, ocean-inspired touch to any summer look.
4. Ocean-Inspired Mermaid-Core Nail Art
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Image Credit: @ kyla
Add delicate details like hand-painted seashells and starfish accents to your nails for a touch of the ocean’s beauty. Mermaid-core designs with soft blues or a French manicure bring real magic to your summer look, making it captivating and far from ordinary. Embrace the charm of ocean nails and let your style shine.
5. Elegant Mermaid Nails for Summer Events
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Image Credit: @ Taylor Schramm
For a summer occasion, mermaid nails with swirly designs and a pearl effect add a touch of elegance and timeless sophistication. The addition of scales, shells, and pearls creates a delicate, yet captivating look perfect for summer events or a mermaid-themed wedding. Whether you want to elevate your style or keep it simple, this design strikes the middle ground between classic and bold, making you feel happy with your perfect look.
6. Turquoise Mermaid Nails for Summer
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Image Credit: @ Ella___Ward
Dive into the ocean depths with mermaid nails featuring a cool turquoise base and stunning accent designs. Perfect for a summer look, these nails add a touch of seaside flair and embrace the carefree spirit of the season. Whether you’re at the beach or enjoying any summer vibe, this captivating style brings the tranquillity of the ocean to your fingertips.
7. Mermaid Marble Nails with Ocean Swirls
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Image Credit: @ lorena.cop
Add a unique touch to your nails with mermaid-inspired marble nails. The swirling effect creates a mesmerizing design with elegant blues and hints of purple, capturing the essence of the ocean depths. Perfect for summer adventures, this style complements any outfit and adds a little magic to your look, making it perfect for any occasion.
8. Shimmering Chrome Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ Mindfully Glam
Achieve an underwater wonder with mermaid nails that feature a shimmering chrome finish. The iridescent design changes colour in different lights, creating an eye-catching finish that adds a perfect touch to your summer look. These cute nails bring out the magic of the ocean, making your fingertips stand out with their mesmerizing glow.
9. Bold Mermaid Nails with Aquatic Accents
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Image Credit: @ Ella___Ward
Create a bold statement by making a splash with mermaid nail designs. Adorn your nails with shimmering scales, seashells, and other aquatic accents that capture the essence of the ocean. The iridescent hues add depth and beauty, turning your nails into an underwater wonder that’s perfect for any mermaid-inspired look.
10. Elegant Mermaid Nails for Summer Sophistication
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Image Credit: @ Ella___Ward
For a more understated yet elegant look, opt for mermaid nails that add a subtle touch of summer sophistication. These designs are perfect for everyday elegance and fit seamlessly into formal summer events or poolside brunches. With their versatile appeal, these nails bring a perfect balance of charm and style to any occasion.
11. Purple & Blue Ombre Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ Thatgratefulsoul
Capture the essence of the seashores with mermaid’s nails that feature a beautiful purple-ish and bluish ombre effect. Inspired by the wet sand by the water, this style is perfect for summer and adds a fresh, beachy vibe to your natural nails. Whether you’re attending beachside parties or just enjoying the summer, these nails offer the perfect balance of elegance and fun.
12. Mermaid Tail Nails with Shimmering Scales
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Image Credit: @ Ella___Ward
Show off your inner mermaid with mermaid tail nails that are both stylish and captivating. The design, with its shimmering scales and curves, is the perfect way to embrace the magic of the sea this summer. Whether you’re at a beach party or just enjoying the season, these nails are sure to make a splash and complete your look.
13. Ocean-Inspired Blue & Purple Gradient Nails
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Image Credit: @ Occasions Nails
Create a mermaid manicure with a mesmerizing blend of blues and purples, reminiscent of the ocean at dusk. This gradient effect captures the beauty of the sea, with breathtaking hues that give your nails incredible depth. It’s the perfect way to embrace the season’s magic and showcase a look that’s both captivating and inspired by the sky’s serene colours.
14. Golden Starfish & Seashell Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ Katrina X
Capture the essence of the ocean with a mermaid nail design that features golden starfish designs and delicate hand-painted seashells. The combination of blue and white shades on your fingertips creates a beautiful look, while the addition of waterdrop accents brings an extra touch of gorgeous shimmer. It’s the perfect way to show off your summer style and feel connected to the sea.
15. Minimalist Ocean-Inspired Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ beautynailspo
Embrace the ocean’s beauty with mermaid nails that showcase deep blue hues and a minimal look. Featuring a nude base, these nails incorporate watercolour designs of rolling waves and gorgeous, eye-catching summer neon nails. A bright, unique take on summer nails, this design is the perfect way to shine.
16. Elegant 3D Seashell Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ Katherineysmo
Showcase the beauty of mermaid-inspired nails with unique, elegant designs featuring 3D seashell accents. These eye-catching, pearly nails resemble miniature works of art and are perfect for out-in-the-ocean picnics, weddings, or dinner nights. With their soft, seashore feel, they are the perfect addition to any special life moment.
17. Playful Beach Mermaid Nails for Teens
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Image Credit: @ kailey lester
For teen girls who love all things mermaid, these beach mermaid nails are the perfect choice for a sea party. With their vibrant designs and playful charm, these nails capture the magical essence of the ocean and are sure to add a touch of whimsy to any summer look.
18. Summer Sunset Gradient Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ Ruby Gray
Create a breathtaking summer sunset look with mermaid nails featuring a mesmerizing gradient of golden pink and soft white tips. This design gives off a shimmering effect that mimics the beauty of the setting sun, combining the elegance of classic French manicures with the magical hues of the ocean.
19. Whimsical & Elegant Mermaid Nail Designs
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Image Credit: @ Ella___Ward
For a summer occasion, embrace your inner mermaid with mermaid nail designs that combine whimsical elements with classic elegance. These versatile nails are the perfect blend of sophistication and ocean vibes, featuring a French manicure that adds a fairytale charm to any look. It’s the ideal way to ditch the ordinary and embrace perfect beauty.
20. Frosted Mermaid Nails with Glitter Effect
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Image Credit: @ Misty Peer
Add a touch of frosted ice and enchanting beauty to your look with mermaid nails featuring a dazzling effect that mimics the deep blue sea. The glittering gradient offers a glistening texture, perfect for pool parties or summer soirées. With a gradient jewellery effect, these nails radiate confidence and glamour, reflecting sunlight for everyday wear or special occasions.
21. Sophisticated Almond Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ Ella___Ward
Feel confident and embrace sophistication with mermaid-inspired almond nails that bring elegance to everyday and special occasions. Perfect for weddings, romantic evenings, or chic summer looks, this uniquely stylish French design adds a subtle flair that enhances your natural beauty with effortless charm.
22. Shimmering Mermaid Nails with Glitter
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Image Credit: @ Anabiya
Embrace the whimsical spirit of an under-the-sea fantasy with shimmering mermaid nails in dazzling shades. The playful mix of colours and glitter adds a perfect touch to your summer look, keeping your style polished and effortlessly magical.
23. Bold Shark-Mermaid Nails with Scales
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Image Credit: @ Get NailInspo
Unleash your fiercest shark-mermaid side with bold, statement nails that capture the true essence of the ocean. Hand-painted scales and seashells add a shimmering effect, making them perfect for the summer. Ditch the expected and embrace an adventurous look that turns heads effortlessly.
24. Fairy-Inspired Pastel Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ Katherineysmo
Create a fairy-inspired look with pastel hues and a melty blend of colours. Sprinkle shimmering flakes like fairytale dust for an ethereal glow. This perfect design combines a dreamy effect with a carefree summer spirit. Embrace the magic of mermaid nails with a delicate, whimsical touch.
25. Elegant 3D Shell & Pearl Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ M.ab
Mermaid-inspired nails with 3D shells and pearls bring an elegant touch to any occasion. Clear, neutral tones enhance oceanic beauty, making them perfect for any season. These stunning designs add a dreamy, underwater charm while keeping things effortlessly chic.
26. Ombre Mermaid Nails with Shell Accents
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Image Credit: @ Maddy Cordero
For a mermaid-inspired touch, go for nails with a soft ombre base in blue and pink, topped with dotted details and a gleaming shell finish. Add starfish and pearly accents for that dreamy beach feel. A fruit-themed twist makes it unique, creating the perfect summer look with oceanic spirit and delicate designs.
27. Iridescent Opal Mermaid Nails with Gold
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Image Credit: @ LuxeLuminous
Layering a neutral base coat with Essie Iced Out Polish creates an iridescent opal effect, perfect for a mermaid look. Add gold embellishments for extra flair, while a colour-shifting shimmer enhances the magic. Finish with a glossy top coat, letting your nails glow like the ocean.
28. Playful Mermaid Nails with Shell Sequins
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Image Credit: @ Lauren Bear
For a playful mermaid vibe, layer Lights Lacquer in teal and pink with shell-shaped sequins. Add pops of purple for a fun contrast, creating a striking look that feels like a Polly Pocket Party Bundle. Use a palette of brighter shades to make your nails stand out with a unique, dazzling effect.
29. Bold Sea Witch-Inspired Mermaid Nails
Image Credit: @ Amazon
For a moody and head-turning nail look, use PrettyDiva Chameleon polish in deep black and chrome shades. The rainbow effect captures the vibe of a sea witch, channelling your inner Ursula. This dark and daring manicure is sure to make a bold statement and is perfect for those who want to embrace their mystical side.
30. Pink Mermaid Nails with Seashell Embellishments
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Image Credit: @ oneli milara
Create a stunning mermaid nail design by combining pink hues with delicate seashell embellishments. Start with a clear base and build the structure using gel for durability. Add a touch of holographic magic and fine intricate details to achieve a look that’s sure to make everyone swoon. The pale tones will add the perfect soft touch to your nail art.
31. Purple, Pink & Green Marble Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ Shaleen
To create a mermaid-like nail design, blend purple, pink, and green shades with an ethereal feel. Use marble techniques to achieve a dreamy, flowing effect, finishing with a pale colour to enhance the delicate look. This selection of colours will make your nails the perfect work of art by the end of the process.
32. Bold Hot Pink & Orange Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ iz !!
For a mermaid-inspired mani, combine pops of hot pink and orange with pastel shades for an exciting zing. This playful mix of colours will create a look that’s both fun and bold, perfect for making your nail game stand out this summer.
33. Coral & Shell Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ sofie
Imagine a mermaid vibe with a coral centre and shell-shaped accents on your nail. The soft blurred effect will add an enchanting aura to your mani, giving it a laid-back, beach-inspired look. It’s a stunning idea that will have your nails rocking with a unique, dreamy touch.
34. Gemstone & Shell Accents on Ombre Nails
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Image Credit: @ heradenise
Elevate your nail game with gemstones and shell-shaped designs that give your ombre manicure a stunning twist. Each iteration brings something unique, with colour choices that turn heads. Adding these details will take your nail art to the next notch, making them the perfect standout feature for any look.
35. Snakeskin Mermaid Nails with Pink & Purple
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Image Credit: @ frankenstain
For a truly mermaid-inspired mani, try a snakeskin design with moody vibes and a watery feel. The tail effect mixed with shades of pink and purple creates a stunning look. This palette adds depth, but it’s not too overwhelming—just the right amount to get the mermaid magic going.
36. Vanilla Chrome Mermaid Nails for Weddings
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Image Credit: @ Lynn Tran
Add a touch of magic to your wedding day or special occasion with a mani featuring a vanilla base and a hint of chrome. The iridescent shimmer creates the perfect mermaid effect, bringing under-the-sea vibes to your nails for the ultimate summer energy.
37. Silver Strips & Holographic Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ Alexandra
For a show-stopping look, add silver strips to your mermaid-inspired nails with a holographic finish. Combining 3D rainbow accents and iridescent details will give your nails the prettiest finish, making them shine like the sea. Don’t forget to check out brands like Cirque Colors for eco-friendly recycled packaging and to complete your dazzling nail design.
38. Chrome & Pearl Ariel-Inspired Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ loretta
Create a magical look with chrome accents and a pearl-encrusted design, inspired by Ariel from The Little Mermaid. This mermaid-themed French manicure is like a dream come true, capturing the essence of her undersea kingdom. The iridescent finish adds the perfect touch, making your nails feel like they’re part of her world. A perfect mani for any coquette ready to channel a fairy-tale vibe from land to sea.
39. Lavender & Pink Mermaid Nails with Scales
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Image Credit: @ Indhira
This mermaid-inspired manicure blends vivid shades of lavender and pink, creating a happy and vibrant look. The chrome finish catches the light, with scales and pearls adding texture and depth. Whether you’re looking for a bold or subtle style, this design lets you decide the perfect balance for your nails. The medium tone of the shade brings a unique charm to this eye-catching finish.
40. Gold Accents & Starfish Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ Elisabeth Díaz
For a mermaid-esque look, this manicure stands out with its dazzling charm. The gold accents beautifully merge with the scalloped designs, while the starfish studs add a unique touch. The colour-shifting effect brings out the beauty of the base, making these nails a true showstopper with a sea-inspired elegance.
41. Ariel-Inspired Whimsical Mermaid Nails
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Image Credit: @ instagram.com
This Ariel-inspired manicure channels an underwater dream with whimsical stamping designs that add a fun, playful vibe. The colours capture the essence of Disney’s Little Mermaid, and every nail is adorned with detailed touches that make it lovely. Perfect for summer, it’s a design any fan will adore!
42. Ocean-Inspired Nails with Seashells and Iridescent Flakes
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Image Credit: @ Sonja Greco
For a mermaid-core look, choose ocean-inspired stamping designs that include seashell motifs and iridescent flakes. The variety of gorgeous polish options, from jelly to shifty shades, ensures a beachy vibe, and the details like shimmer and flakes create the perfect mermaid effect. Whether you’re after a subtle or bold design, these nails offer endless creative possibilities for a flawless finish. Shell Yeah, you’ll achieve glamour with just a few stamps!
43. Reef-inspired mermaid Nails with Coral and Teal
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Image Credit: @ Taniyah
Dive into a fantasy with reef-inspired nails, where coral and teal shifting hues blend seamlessly into a true mermaid tale. Paired with jelly bases and iridescent flakes, these underwater-themed nails create a stunning manicure that glistens like the ocean itself. The waves of colour and accents of shimmering beauty offer a picture-perfect finish for a dreamy look that’s straight out of a sea-filled delight.
44. Whimsical Mermaid Nails with Pastels, Scales, and Seashells
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Image Credit: @ Nailistics Official
For a whimsical twist, these mermaid-inspired nails bring a delightful feeling of the ocean right to your fingertips. With pastel colours, scales, and seashells, they capture the essence of a beach lover’s dream. The waves and fishes create an adorable design that will steal your heart every time you look. Perfect for any babes who adore the charm of the sea!
45. Mermaid Nails with Coral and Reef Textures
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Image Credit: @ Crown Tips
This captivating manicure blends striking colours like yellow, pink, teal, violet, and aqua, creating an enchanting design inspired by the ocean‘s wonders. The coral and reef textures, paired with black silhouettes of creatures, evoke the hidden depths of the sea. Perfect for those exploring the mermaid vibe, these nails are a beautiful contrast of soft and bold, showcasing underwater magic and a touch of mystery.
46. Spooky Skull and Mermaid Goth Nail Design
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Image Credit: @ Louise Murray
A bewitching nail design featuring spooky skulls and mermaids, with dark pink hues, takes you into the sunken depths of the ocean. This ultimate oceanic art combines scales and fish with a mer-goth twist, adding charm to your nails. The design immerses you in a darker world, perfect for summer vibes that blend witchy with underwater magic. This stunning combination of vibes and enchantment is ideal for those who love the spooky side of the ocean!
47. Mermaid-Core Shimmering Nail & Green with Glitter
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Image Credit: @ Cirque Colors
This mermaid-core manicure features a stunning shimmering teal and green combo with marbling and glitter. The Polish adds a gorgeous shimmer effect with flakes for a mesmerizing oceanic vibe. Mermaid lovers will adore this dusty pink and white design, making your nails irresistible.
48. Mesmerizing Summer Manicure with Deep Dive Polish
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Image Credit: @ Amazon
Create a mesmerizing summer manicure with a single swipe of Deep Dive polish and a dazzling pink and green jelly coat. The iridescent flakies and aquatic effect build subtle glam with a touch of stunning shine. Flakies give your nails the perfect touch for a truly easy, perfect finish.
49. Bright and Playful Ombre Mermaid Nails with Neon Hues
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Image Credit: @ Beautymone
Get ready for bright and playful mermaid nails with a striking ombre effect! These neon hues and colourful patterns create eye-catching designs that mimic the beauty of mermaid tails. With rainbow polishes and a stunning scale effect, this summer collection will have your nails standing out in every way.
50. Creative Mermaid Nails for Ocean-Inspired Designs
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Image Credit: @ Negi Esfandiari
Take a happy plunge into the depths of your creativity with mermaid nails. There are endless possibilities to craft gorgeous looks—few can transport you to the ocean like these unique designs. Try different styles and let your creative side shine as you cue the beauty of the sea.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mermaid nails offer a captivating way to express your creativity and embrace the magic of the ocean. From vibrant, colourful designs to subtle, shimmering finishes, there’s a style to suit every personality and occasion. Whether you’re channelling the whimsical spirit of a mermaid or adding a touch of undersea glamour to your look, these nails are sure to make a statement. So, dive into the world of mermaid-inspired nail art and let your nails reflect the beauty and mystery of the ocean depths!
