Stylish and waterproof beach sandals… what else do you need?
Beach Sandals
Summer is finally here, and that means it’s time to hit the beach and bask in the sun’s warm embrace. But before you pack your beach bag, there’s one crucial accessory you shouldn’t overlook: a fabulous pair of beach sandals.
When you pack for your coastal vacation, you likely always grab your favorite white sneakers for excursions and heels for dinner, but beach sandals shouldn’t be overlooked.
Whether you’re strolling along the shore or lounging by the pool, the right pair of sandals can elevate your style and keep your feet comfortable all day long.
Viva Cabana’s Pick!
We love these Freedom Moses Two Band Slide which comes in endless options of cool prints and colors.
Orange is the best for adding a pop color to your beach outfit!
RELATED: 14 Best Pool Slides That You Can Wear Anywhere
Which Footwear is Best for Beach?
Beach sandals not only allow you to go from the water’s edge to lunch in town with ease but they offer essential foot protection from the scorching sand to sharp sea shells.
They’re lightweight, making them easy to put in your beach bag and you’ll feel chic on and off the sand—with the right pair. Plus beach sandals are the definition of fuss-free.
Sand ends up on everything at the beach, and beach sandals can be rinsed off at the end of the day.
What’s the Best Beach Sandal?
Beach sandals come in all sorts, from easy on-and-off Havaianas flip flops to chunky Birkenstock slides to nostalgic Melissa jellies.
Or if you’re in the market for a comfortable, durable, and supportive beach sandal that can be worn hiking or water tubing, shop some classic Tevas.
There are plenty of more elegant and stylized sandals that are perfect for the beach as well, like ankle-strap PVC bows from Zimmermann and embellished sandals from Gianvito Rossi.
Style Tip: shop fashion and function
If you’re looking for some additional support on uneven sand, shop for a pair with ankle straps.
RELATED: Easy Slide Sandals That Look So Chic
What Beach Sandals Are in Style?
- Classic Flip-Flops: A timeless choice for beachgoers which never go out of style.
- Sporty Sandals: For those seeking a blend of style and practicality for activities.
- Slide Sandals: A fashion staple. Easy slip-on styles are ideal for beach outings.
- Espadrille Sandals: If you’re yearning for a touch of elegance at the beach. Get your full guide of Espadrilles here.
- Water Shoes: To protect your feet from sharp rocks, hot sand, or pesky sea creatures.
Join us as we explore the best beach sandals that seamlessly combine fashion, functionality, and comfort for your ultimate summer escapades.
Our Top Picks
We’ve rounded up the best beach sandals that will match your swimsuit collection. Check out all of our favorites, just in time for summer.
Best For Comfort
The Birkenstock Arizona two-strap sandal has become quite a mainstay of every fashionable girl’s closet over the past few years, but there’s no denying the comfort factor that comes with these slides.
A reviewer writes: “The best part about these shoes is that they have awesome arch support… I can’t wear regular flip-flops without some foot pain.”
And, while many of their styles are beach-ready, these are made of 100% rubber, so they are totally waterproof in and out of the ocean.
Material: Rubber
Sizes: 4-12
Best Nostalgic Pick
As a child of the ’80s and ‘90s, it’s a sure bet that you owned a pair of jellies… or five.
And thanks to rubber sandal queen, Melissa, you can shop the classic woven rubber sandal again—with glitter, to boot!
Helpful Tip! Elevate these jellies from your childhood memories by pairing them with a modern swimsuit and accessories. Opt for a chic white one piece paired with a beach dress to bring these into the 21st century.
Material: PVC
Sizes: 5-10
Best Flip-Flops
There is certainly a time and place for a flip-flop, and the beach is it.
Stock up on affordable Havaianas all summer long. They come in bright colors you’ll love with an understated design that has already lasted generations.
Helpful Tip! Flip flops are a longtime beach staple for a reason. They’re sand-friendly, easy on and off, and pair with virtually any beach outfit.
Material: Rubber
Sizes: 5-12
Best Terry Cloth Slides
Who says that you just have to cover your body in a towel and not your feet, too? Not Hunter, the British brand behind not only iconic wellies but also these perfect terry cloth slide sandals.
Helpful Tip! Shearling-lined slides aren’t exactly beach friendly, so swap them for terry cloth slides. You’ll get the same luxuriously soft feeling without being bogged down by sand.
Material: Terry toweling
Sizes: 5-11
Best Barely-There Style
With the waterproof appeal of a rubber sandal, these Ancient Greek skimmers feature three very thin straps from the brand that is well-known for their gorgeous line of leather sandals as well.
You’ll love these beachside (and beyond) for a barely-there look that’s elegant and classic.
Helpful Tip! Pair these with a sarong or beach pants for a stroll along the water or a beachside lunch.
Material: Rubber
Sizes: 36-41
Best Jelly Slides
When you want that throwback jelly sandal, but with elevated appeal, Coach has your back. Pool-or-beachside, this simple slide sandal is available in a rainbow of PVC tones.
Even though slides are easy breezy, reviewers recommend breaking them in before your next beach day: “Super cute love the color very summery must be broken in before you wear them right away.”
Material: Rubber
Sizes: 5-11
Best Printed Slide
Whether you’re wearing a cutout swimsuit, little white dress, or casual pair of jeans and a tee, your beach sandals are a great way to add that whimsical pop of color to keep all eyes on you.
You’ll love these iconic Dolce & Gabbana slides that feature not only a rainbow of colors but also their signature prints as well.
Material: Rubber
Sizes: 35-41
Best Feminine Detail
We love a feminine detail, whether you’re shopping for beach sandals or more dressed-up styles.
These Zimmermann sandals in a pretty tone of pink PVC allow you to take that dressed-up appeal to the water’s edge with ease.
Helpful Tip! For a beach-to-dinner look, style these with a chic white beach dress. You’ll not only lean into the feminine style but the white dress will let the pink bows pop.
Material: PVC
Sizes: 6-10
Best Printed Sandals
Whether it’s these perfect floral slides or another print entirely, you’ll fall in love with Freedom Moses’ selection of simple two-strap slide sandals that are sold in a range of patterns and colors of the rainbow.
They’re casual and cool and instantly breathe new life into your summertime look.
Helpful Tip! If flip flops are your tried and true beach shoe, these are the elevated version. They provide arch support and security that you won’t find in flip flops—all in the same fun colors.
Material: PVC
Sizes: 5-12
Best Active Sandal
Teva sandals have come back into everyday style on the heels of the world’s fascination with ‘90s and early-aughts culture and fashion. But, there’s no denying that they’re still tops on our list when it comes to more active beachside days.
Whether you’re stepping into a kayak, walking through rocky waters, or going for a tropical hike, Teva has your back.
Helpful Tip! You can now recycle your Tevas after their years of service with their new TevaForever program.
Material: 100% polyester, rubber sole
Sizes: 5-14
Best Trompe L’Oeil
Look to Marni for a whimsical take on the Birkenstock trend. They’ve crafted these brightly-toned slide sandals with a printed buckle pattern that stands without hardware of any kind.
What’s more, they’re made of a knit fabric that comfortably hugs your foot, making them your new favorite go-anywhere sandals.
Helpful Tip! If these get wet beyond a splash or two, make sure you let the knit material dry to avoid any irritation or discomfort.
Material: Knit
Sizes: 35-41
Best Embellished Sandals
Even when you’re hitting the beach, you need a little bit of sparkle. Courtesy of Gianvito Rossi, meet your new favorite after-hours sandals that are still beachside friendly.
With clear PVC straps and a rainbow of crystals, they feel understated and bold, all at the same time.
Helpful Tip! Next time you get a beach wedding invite, skip the ill-fated heels and even wedges for these elevated and embellished sandals.
Material: PVC
Sizes: 36-42
Best All-Black Style
Calling all black lovers! These slide sandals are for you.
They’re made of rubber with a knit upper (perfect for the beach!). They’re great for those girls who might not want to embrace bright colors and bold prints, preferring to opt for their go-to black instead.
Helpful Tip! If you don’t like the feeling of a rubber sole, the footbed is lined with textile material.
Material: Knit textile, rubber
Sizes: 5-11
Best Sporty Slides
If you loved the Adidas slides from the ‘90s, these are the high-fashion version of those. They’re understated and totally waterproof, using texture to add that little bit of detail to this overall sporty look.
Helpful Tip! Lean into the sporty style and pair these slides with your best tankini and shorts combo. You’ll have comfort and coverage while looking cool!
Material: Rubber
Sizes: 34-42
Pro Tip 😎
You should paramountly seek out sandals that are made of water-resistant or fully waterproof materials, like rubber, nylon, and clear PVC.
That way, even if your feet are not fully dried before you slip into your beach sandals, they will dry quickly and without damage.
Our Shopping Guide
Classic Flip-Flops
These versatile sandals are known for their simplicity and effortless charm. Look for flip-flops with durable rubber soles, cushioned footbeds, and water-resistant materials.
Sporty Sandals
These sandals often feature adjustable straps, water-friendly materials, and grippy outsoles, making them perfect for beach hikes, water sports, or even casual seaside strolls.
Slide Sandals
Opt for slide sandals with contoured footbeds and soft straps for maximum comfort. Look for vibrant colors, playful prints, or even metallic accents to add a touch of glamour to your beach ensemble.
Espadrille Sandals
These chic sandals feature jute-wrapped soles and stylish woven uppers that exude a laid-back yet sophisticated vibe. Espadrilles come in various styles, including ankle straps, wedges, and platforms.
Water Shoes
These highly functional sandals are made from quick-drying, water-resistant materials and often feature rubber outsoles with excellent traction. Look for water shoes with adjustable straps, breathable mesh panels, and cushioned insoles for enhanced comfort.
What to Look for
As you are often in and out of the water on a beachside vacation, it’s important to look for materials that are durable in nature, if not fully waterproof.
Material: Water-resistant and waterproof materials like Rubber, nylon, PVC, and more.
Fit: While you can certainly opt for an ankle strap or wrap, slip-on and other easeful silhouettes are great for the beach.
Size: Take your proper shoe size. Read the reviews and check the size guide.
Pro Tip 😎
Shop shoes that are waterproof so that you don’t have to worry about getting too close to the waves while you’re at the beach.
Just in time for summer, shop some of our favorite (and stylish!) sandals that are perfect for the beach.
Finding the perfect balance between style and comfort is essential. Whether you prefer the classic flip-flops, sporty sandals, slide sandals, espadrilles, or water shoes, there’s a pair out there that suits your beach style and ensures your feet feel fantastic all day long.
Embrace the summer vibes, unleash your inner fashionista, and let your beach sandals become your ultimate seaside companions. So slip them on, feel the sand between your toes, and get ready to make a fashion statement as you soak up the sun in style.
FAQ
How to choose best sandals for the beach?
When it comes to shopping for beach sandals, opt for those that slide on fairly easily or feature a single ankle strap so that it doesn’t take long to slip them on and off as you move from the sand to the water and back again.
What’s more, in keeping with the water-centric theme, now is the time to shop for sandals that are fairly waterproof so that you don’t have to worry about ruining your favorite new purchase while you’re at the beach.
What sandals are good in the sand?
All sandals are good in sand, although you might want to avoid dear materials, like suede and soft leather, when it comes to the sand as well as water.
What can I wear to the beach instead of flip-flops?
There are plenty of sandals that you can wear to the beach instead of flip-flops. In fact, we encourage it!
Whether an easeful slide sandal or a more structured ankle-strap sandal, the world is your oyster…as long as you’re opting for a durable material.
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