As someone who rarely goes without painted nails, I am always experimenting with new shades and discovering new favorites. While I have my go-to colors for special occasions throughout the year, there is something particularly exciting about transitioning into summer nail polish colors. With summer 2026 on the horizon, it is time to embrace this year’s bright, cheerful hues that perfectly complement sun-kissed skin and breezy summer days. From bold corals that pop against a tan to soft pastels that capture the season’s carefree spirit, summer nail polish colors offer endless possibilities for self-expression. Here are the 10 best summer nail polish colors that will keep your manicure game strong all summer long.
This article was originally written in 2019 and has since been updated and recirculated for May 2026.
Top 10 Best Summer Nail Polish Colors for 2026
OPI Yoga-ta Get this Blue
with a mocktail at The Studio at the Unscripted in Durham
While I love bright colors, I also enjoy wearing darker shades year round, making this an excellent option for those who gravitate toward deeper hues while still want something summer-appropriate. Yoga-ta Get this Blue! is a deep, meditative blue with a shimmer finish that catches light like moonlight on water. The rich navy base feels both grounded and luminous, shifting subtly with every gesture.
OPI Cajun Shrimp
This is my go-to nail color for the summer and is one color that never goes out of style
Make a bold statement with this spicy coral that adds a fiery pop of color to your nails. This vibrant hue is perfect for those who love a bold and playful manicure—it is my automatic choice for beach vacations and has been one of my top five favorite colors for as long as I can remember.
OPI Rich Girls and Po’ Boys
at Hummingbird, one of the best spot to grab post-work drinks and dinner in Raleigh
This creamy blue nail polish is as charming as it is versatile. The rich, deep blue hue is perfect for those ready to embrace both elegance and fun with every manicure.
Chaun Legend Artist Pass
The first manicure of summer 2025
I am a sucker for light purple manicures, and this powder purple delivers with a formula that goes on smoothly without streaking—a must-have quality for any nail polish.
OPI Can’t Find My Czechbook
photo from OPI Professionals Instagram
This shade brings a European elegance to your fingertips while maintaining that summer freshness we are all craving.
OPI Follow Your Heart
Photo from Paintbase Nails
Radiate confidence in this vibrant neon pink shade. It is a bold, enthusiastic color that encourages you to pursue your dreams and follow your heart—perfect for summer’s adventurous spirit.
OPI Funny Bunny
From an afternoon trip to Tarboro Brewing Company in Tarboro
Elevate your manicure with this soft, sheer white that exudes elegance and timeless beauty. This versatile shade works for creating natural looks, French tips, or layering for a delicate finish. It is completely buildable—one coat for translucency or multiple layers for opacity. I recently tried this shade and loved that while neutral, it did not read as nude.
Essie Mint Candy Apple
Photo via Lacquer Slacker Liz
This cult favorite earns its reputation, especially as mint green makes its comeback! It is fresh, playful, and perfectly captures summer’s breezy vibe.
Chanel Incendiaire
Photo via Nordstrom
As someone who loves tomatoes, this gorgeous tomato red caught my eye immediately. While I do not usually wear red, this shade has definitely earned a spot on my must-try list.
Chaun Legend “Get a Grape”
I reach for this color for an instant dopamine boost!
Final Thoughts
The entire OPI collection offers stunning options, and I am particularly fond of Essie’s Fiji—the color I wore on my wedding day and now save for our anniversary trips as a tradition I started.
Though, let me tell you! Give it a few weeks, and I will have Lincoln Park After Dark on again. It is my go-to color year round, not just for cooler months.
What’s your go-to nail color for summer 2026? I’d love to hear about your favorites!
Cajun shrimp is a classic and I might have to try that mint color- so pretty!
xo, Kristina
Yes! Cajun Shrimp is my absolute favorite, too! xx
What cute and fun colors!! I get SNS Dip and currently have white with a pink accent nail- I might re-do that again!
xoxo A
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