I've learned the tough way that I should never travel without packing this essential shoe style.

      You’ve gathered a selection of bikini styles, begun to fill the mesh bag for your beach essentials—think high SPF sunscreen and an engaging book to enjoy while lounging on the sand—and sorted out which linen trousers or light minidress will be your cover-up. Now, all that remains is to select the ideal beach footwear. Whether it’s the Amalfi Coast, Côte d'Azur, or even a more local getaway in Cornwall, no watery retreat is complete without considering the shoes you'll bring along. Based on my experiences growing up on the beaches of Sydney, where I practically lived in Havianas, the best beach shoes need to meet several criteria.

      The foremost consideration is protecting your feet from sharp rocks, scorching sand, and any stinging creatures like bluebottles or sea urchins. Particularly on many European beaches, it’s essential that beach shoes are water-friendly, which means sleek leather or suede options are not suitable.

      While less critical, it's still vital that the best beach shoes look stylish enough to elevate your outfit from a simple thrown-together look to something chic. When your vacation is filled with hours spent in the water, planning and styling becomes less prioritized, making it necessary for your beach shoes to serve a dual purpose. They not only need to protect you against the elements but also complement your attire for the local tavernas, seaside eateries, or breezy bars you’ll likely visit once the sun sets. From playful jelly sandals featured by The Row and Ancient Greek Sandals to the trending rope sandals inspired by the paracord accessory movement championed by Miu Miu, there’s no shortage of options vying for the title of 'best beach shoe.' Ahead of your next coastal adventure, I've put together an extensive list of top contenders for you to consider. As Lorde sang in 2021’s "Solar Power," let the bliss commence...

      **The 6 Best Beach Shoes to Wear on Your Next Trip to the Seaside**

      1. **Rope Sandals**

       **Style Notes:** There’s a certain mismatch in wearing trainers on the beach, given the laces and socks. Rope sandals, however, provide the perfect alternative to sturdy sneakers. With designs favored by surfers and rock climbers, they maintain a slightly sporty silhouette without leaning too heavily into sneaker territory. The contrast between outdoor vibes and breezy summer dresses we gravitate toward during beach outings adds a playful edge to your look while strolling along the boardwalk.

       **Shop the Shoe:**

       - H&M Rhinestone-Embellished Sandals: This sparkly design will carry you from lazy days on the lounge to sophisticated nights at a beach club. The metal accents are a lovely touch.

       - Free People Genesis Packable Sport Sandals: This pair has become essential at Who What Wear.

      2. **T-Bar Sandals**

       **Style Notes:** What do brands like Jil Sander, The Row, and Khaite have in common? Besides their commitment to sleek minimalism, they all favor the t-bar sandal. This stylish design is a more refined evolution of the flip-flop, offering a relaxed yet elevated appearance. You may find yourself feeling like you’re dressing for The Hamptons (even if you're just in Hastings).

       **Shop the Shoe:**

       - ZARA Leather Buckle-Strap Sandals: This option features a chunkier t-bar shape for a more laid-back vibe.

       - JIL SANDER Leather Sandals

       - ST. AGNI T Leather Sandals: These will appeal to any passionate minimalist.

      3. **Flip-Flops**

       **Style Notes:** As an Australian, I quickly recognized the charm of flip-flops. Their uncomplicated design, featuring a simple rubber sole and two straps across the foot, makes them appealing to style enthusiasts. With no flamboyant embellishments, a classic flip-flop can easily be paired with countless outfits while maintaining harmony. Plus, they’re a breeze to take off and put back on when running in and out of the surf. From The Row’s £730 Dune model to transparent styles like Christopher Esber’s Jo thong—two of the ‘It’ sandals for 2025—investing in this timeless option now will set you up for future summers.

       **Shop the Shoe:**

       - A.EMERY Suede Flora Flip Flops: This suede version is highly sought after by many editors.

       - ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS Saionara Jelly PVC Flip Flops

      4. **Fisherman Sandals**

       **Style Notes:** Fisherman sandals are an obvious choice for the best beach footwear. As the name suggests, their caged design is ideal for the seaside, having originated with ancient sailors who needed something breathable and quick-drying at sea. Nowadays, you’ll see them worn by celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Gwyneth Paltrow as part