Walking barefoot on the beach sounds dreamy—until you step on a sharp shell or scorching hot sand. The right footwear makes all the difference between a pleasant seaside stroll and a painful trek.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Top 7 best shoes for beach walking (with pros & cons)
✔ Key features to look for (drainage, arch support, etc.)
✔ What to avoid when choosing beach shoes
✔ Expert tips for different beach terrains
Whether you’re a sunrise walker, shell collector, or coastal hiker, we’ve got your soles covered!
What Makes the Best Beach Walking Shoes?
1. Quick-Drying & Breathable Materials
- Look for: Mesh uppers, neoprene, or knit fabrics
- Avoid: Leather or non-breathable synthetics
2. Drainage Holes or Porous Design
- Lets water and sand escape easily
3. Lightweight & Flexible
- Heavy shoes sink in soft sand
4. Grippy, Non-Slip Soles
- Essential for wet rocks or slippery boardwalks
5. Arch Support & Cushioning
- Prevents foot fatigue on long walks
Top 7 Best Shoes for Beach Walking
1. KEEN Newport H2 Sandals
✅ Best for: Rocky shores & wet conditions
✅ Pros: Toe protection, rugged soles, quick-dry webbing
❌ Cons: Slightly bulky
2. Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Wave Sandal
✅ Best for: Budget-friendly comfort
✅ Pros: Ultra-lightweight, drains well, odor-resistant
❌ Cons: Minimal arch support
3. Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals
✅ Best for: Long beach hikes
✅ Pros: Adjustable straps, grippy soles, eco-friendly materials
❌ Cons: Straps may chafe
4. Vionic Tide II Flip Flops
✅ Best for: Arch support lovers
✅ Pros: Podiatrist-designed, deep heel cup, stylish
❌ Cons: Not for rocky terrain
5. Merrell All Out Blaze Sieve
✅ Best for: Adventurous coasteering
✅ Pros: Vibram soles, secure fit, drains quickly
❌ Cons: Expensive
6. Skechers GOwalk Arch Fit – Slip-On
✅ Best for: Seniors or comfort seekers
✅ Pros: Machine washable, memory foam, breathable
❌ Cons: Not for deep water
7. Aleader Mesh Water Shoes
✅ Best for: Water-to-land transitions
✅ Pros: Stretchy fit, drainage ports, affordable
❌ Cons: Less durable
Beach Shoe Recommendations by Activity
| Activity | Best Shoe Type | Top Pick |
|---|---|---|
| Casual Sandy Walks | Slip-on water shoes | Skechers GOwalk |
| Rocky Coastlines | Sturdy sandals | KEEN Newport H2 |
| Shell Collecting | Lightweight aqua socks | Aleader Mesh Shoes |
| Coasteering | Trail-ready water shoes | Merrell All Out Blaze |
| Boardwalk Strolls | Supportive sandals | Vionic Tide II |
People Also Ask (FAQs)
1. What type of shoes are best for walking on the beach?
Quick-drying sandals or water shoes with grippy soles and drainage work best.
2. What should I wear on my feet at the beach?
- Soft sand: Barefoot or minimalist sandals
- Rocky areas: Sturdy sandals with toe protection
- Wet conditions: Water shoes with drainage
3. What shoes are best for coasteering?
Closed-toe water shoes with Vibram soles (like Merrell Blaze Sieve) for grip on slippery rocks.
4. Should you wear shoes walking on the beach?
Yes, if:
- Sand is scorching hot
- You’re near sharp shells/rocks
- Walking long distances
5. What to wear for a walk on the beach?
- Shoes: Quick-dry sandals or water shoes
- Clothes: Moisture-wicking shirt, UPF hat
- Extras: Sunglasses, sunscreen
Pro Tips for Beach Footwear
- Rinse shoes after use to prevent saltwater damage.
- Size up slightly—feet swell in heat.
- Break in new shoes before long walks.
- Pack flip-flops for post-walk comfort.
What to Avoid in Beach Shoes
❌ Flat flip-flops (no arch support)
❌ Cotton socks (stay wet and cause blisters)
❌ Heavy hiking boots (sink in sand)
Final Verdict: Best All-Around Beach Shoe
For most beach walkers, the KEEN Newport H2 offers the perfect balance of protection, drainage, and comfort.
Budget pick? Crocs Swiftwater.
Need arch support? Vionic Tide II.