I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing.

I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing.

      You’ve selected a variety of bikini styles, begun filling the mesh bag that will contain all your beach necessities—think: high SPF sunscreen and an engaging book to enjoy while lounging on the sand—and arranged which linen trousers or breezy minidress will serve as your cover-up. Now, the only task remaining is to pick the ideal beach footwear. Whether you’re heading to the Amalfi Coast, Côte d'Azur, or staying closer to home in Cornwall, no watery getaway is complete without considering the shoes you plan to bring. From my own experience of growing up on Sydney’s beaches, where Havianas were a staple, the best beach footwear should meet several key criteria.

      The primary concern is to protect your feet from sharp rocks, hot sand, and any marine stingers like blue bottles or sea urchins. Particularly on many European beaches, footwear also needs to be water-friendly, which rules out stylish leather or suede options.

      Less critical, though still significant, is that the best beach shoes should be fashionable enough to elevate your look from a simple throw-on outfit to something more sophisticated. When your vacation involves hours in the water, outfit planning tends to fall by the wayside. Hence, your beach shoes must serve a dual purpose: protecting you from the elements while also allowing you to dress up for the local tavernas, casual restaurants, or breezy aperitivo bars you’ll likely visit once the sun sets.

      From playful jelly sandals available at The Row and Ancient Greek Sandals to the emerging trend of rope sandals inspired by Miu Miu’s paracord accessories, there’s a wide array of options competing for the title of “best beach shoe.” In preparation for your upcoming trip to the coast, I’ve assembled a detailed list of the top contenders for you to explore. As Lorde sang in her 2021 hit “Solar Power,” let the bliss begin...

      The Top 6 Beach Shoes for Your Next Seaside Getaway:

      1. Rope Sandals

      Style Notes: There’s something off about sporting trainers on the sand, with laces and socks just not fitting the vibe. Rope sandals are the perfect alternative to sturdy sneakers. With straps utilized by surfers and climbers, their silhouette gives off a sporty yet stylish look without being overly athletic like ballet flats. The playfulness of outdoor designs paired with light summer dresses makes these sandals a fashion-forward choice for strolling along the boardwalk.

      Shop the Shoe:

      - H&M: Rhinestone-Embellished Sandals – This sparkling style will transition you from relaxing days on the recliner to more upscale evenings at a beach club, with sweet metal hardware as a charming touch.

      - Free People: Genesis Packable Sport Sandals – A must-have pair at Who What Wear.

      2. T-Bar Sandals

      Style Notes: Brands like Jil Sander, The Row, and Khaite share a love for the t-bar sandal, thanks to their sleek minimalism. This alphabet-inspired shape serves as a more sophisticated flip-flop alternative, looking both relaxed and effortlessly stylish. You’ll feel like you’re dressing for The Hamptons, even if you’re just in Hastings.

      Shop the Shoe:

      - ZARA: Leather Buckle-Strap Sandals – A chunkier t-bar shape gives this style a less prim look.

      - JIL SANDER: Leather Sandals.

      - ST. AGNI: T Leather Sandals – Perfect for any minimalist lover.

      3. Flip-Flops

      Style Notes: Being Australian, I recognized the flip-flop's charm early on. Simple and low-maintenance, they feature a basic rubber sole with two straps across the foot. These unpretentious details appeal to the style-conscious, making them versatile for pairing with endless outfits. Most importantly, they’re easy to take off and put back on when dashing in and out of the waves. From The Row’s £730 Dune style to transparent options like Christopher Esber’s Jo thong—two of 2025's standout sandals—consider investing in this classic design to ensure you’re ready for future summers.

      Shop the Shoe:

      - A.EMERY: Suede Flora Flip Flops – This suede option is a favorite on many editors' wish lists.

      - ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS: Saionara Jelly PVC Flip Flops.

      4. Fisherman Sandals

      Style Notes: Fisherman sandals are an obvious choice for beach footwear. Their caged design is perfect for coastal settings, originating from ancient sailors needing breathable, quick-drying options while at sea. Today, they’re fashionable staples worn by celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Gwyneth Paltrow as part of their street style looks. Just be sure to keep them out of the water for longevity.

      Shop the Shoe:

      - COS: Leather Fisherman Sandals – The modest heel adds a contemporary touch.

      - ARKET: Sebago Meredith Sandals – A more traditional option

I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing. I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing.

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I've learned the hard way that I should never go on vacation without including this essential shoe style in my packing.

A stylish summer is on the horizon.