March 26, 2025
The 8 Best Beach Sandals for All-Day Fun in the Sun
While there’s no rule that says you have to wear a specific type of shoe to the beach, the right footwear can make all the difference. Between the sand, sun and long walks by the water, your shoes should keep up with your beachday plans. The best beach sandals feel good from morning to night, work with anything in your suitcase and won’t have you thinking twice about where you’re headed next.
Picking the right pair means thinking about fit, function, style and durability. Overwhelmed? Don’t worry! At TOMS, we make it easy with picks that check every box. Whether you need comfortable vacation sandals that’ll take you from lounging poolside to enjoying casual dinners or you’re looking for sporty styles perfecting for a stroll along a pebbly beach, we’ve got you covered.
Read on to discover some of the best sandals for beach days out there — comfortable enough to wear all day and stylish enough to go anywhere.
1. Slingback Sandals
A secure fit without feeling restrictive, slingback sandals are the kind of sandals for beach trips that work just as well for a walk in the sand as they do for exploring the town. The back strap keeps everything in place, so there’s no slipping or sliding — even when walking on uneven terrain.
Why we love them: The combo of support and breathability makes slingbacks a must-have for all-day wear. The strap keeps your foot secure, while the open design lets your toes breathe. Plus, they look great with everything from swimsuits to sundresses.
2. Sporty Sandals
For days filled with adventure and sightseeing, sporty sandals give you the comfort and grip you need without feeling bulky or heavy on your feet. These comfortable beach sandals are designed to handle everything from rocky paths to boardwalks, so you know they’ll keep up with whatever’s on the agenda. So go ahead, climb over tide pools or spend the entire day wandering through a new beach town!
Why we love them: With their cushioned soles, adjustable straps and a secure fit, sporty sandals provide the kind of support that keeps feet happy, even after hours on the move. They’re also lightweight and quick-drying, so they’re ready for anything.
3. Slide Sandals
For those times when you want the comfort and practicality of a flip-flop but with a little more elegance, beach slides are the easy answer. Easy to slip on and off and available in a variety of colors and finishes, they’re perfect for lounging by the water, heading to lunch or walking along the shore in style.
Why we love them: They have the same no-fuss feel as flip-flops but with more support and a refined look. The wide strap keeps them secure without feeling tight, and they pair beautifully with everything from swimwear to flowy dresses. Simple, stylish and comfortable enough to wear day in and day out.
4. Espadrille Sandals
Espadrille sandals take the best parts of a classic espadrille (canvas uppers and jute-wrapped soles) but add the breathability of an open-toe design. The result? A casual yet elevated pair of sandals for beach days that feel just as at home on the sand as they do at a seaside restaurant.
Why we love them: Espadrille sandals bring a European charm that works for any setting. The jute sole keeps things light and airy, while the open silhouette adds a relaxed, summery feel. Easy to dress up or down, they’re a great choice when you want something casual but still put together. Discover more ways to wear espadrilles!
5. Wedge Sandals
For a little extra height that doesn’t compromise on all-day comfort, wedge sandals are one of the best beach sandals for dressing up an otherwise casual outfit. The chunky sole provides just the right amount of lift without the instability of traditional heels, but they still look elegant enough for a nighttime walk along the boardwalk or a dressier waterfront dinner.
Why we love them: If you love a good pair of heels, wedges are the perfect in-between option. They add a little extra height while still feeling stable and easy to walk in. The weight is evenly distributed, so they stay comfortable even after hours on your feet. They’re a great way to add some personality to a beach look without overcomplicating it.
6. Mule Sandals
If you were to ask us what the best beach flip-flops are, we’d say it’s not actually a flip-flop at all but a pair of mules. With the same easy slip-on design but a more elevated look, mule sandals bring a little extra style to beach days without losing that laid-back feel everyone craves on their well-deserved vacation days.
Why we love them: They’re effortless, comfortable and way more versatile than a standard flip-flop thanks to the open-back and structured upper. Perfect for going from the beach to brunch to whatever the day brings next!
7. Platform Sandals
Looking for the best pool sandals that are still chic but don’t lose that easygoing summery vibe? Platform sandals check both boxes. They’re made with a thicker sole that adds height while keeping your feet stable and secure, so they’re a good choice for lounging poolside or heading straight to a beachside dinner. With a variety of designs, they give a little more oomph than a flat sandal but still feel light enough for wearing them all day.
Why we love them: Thanks to their even, cushioned sole, platform sandals are as comfortable as regular sandals but with a bit of extra lift. Wear them with a linen set or a cute beach coverup and you’ve got an outfit that looks pulled together without feeling out of place.
8. Rope Heeled Sandals
Few things say beach footwear quite like rope soles, with their natural texture that feels right at home by the water. A cute pair of rope heeled sandals has that easygoing, coastal feel that works for walks by the water, beach parties or afternoons shopping in town. With a little bit of added height, they stand out even more, making them a great pick for days when flats don’t quite match the mood.
Why we love them: Rope heeled sandals have that relaxed, beachy feel that’s perfect for outdoor events or days by the pool. And yet, they aren’t too casual, so they work nicely for more elegant summer dinners and events. Pair them with a linen jumpsuit for a look that screams I’m on vacation, or wear them with a flowy maxi dress to add some contrast to softer fabrics.
How to Choose the Right Beach Sandals
The best beach sandals should combine comfort, durability and style, but not every style will be appropriate (or even comfortable) for every situation. Some are better for lounging, while others are better for long walks or water exposure.
Before picking the perfect pair, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Fit and support: A good sandal should feel secure without being too tight. We always recommend looking for straps or cushioned soles that provide the right amount of support for wearing them all day without pain or discomfort.
- Material: Sandals made from quick-drying, water-resistant or breathable materials work best for beach and pool days. Natural fibers like jute or canvas can add a refined yet casual look, while synthetic materials handle water and sand better.
- Traction: Smooth soles can be slippery on wet surfaces like rocks or wooden piers. So, if you plan to walk on rocks, boardwalks or uneven terrain, look for sandals with a textured or rubber outsole to avoid mishaps.
- Versatility: A great pair should work for more than one occasion, not just for a single event. Something stylish enough for dinner but also comfortable for a full day of walking means less to pack and more to wear.
- Ease of wear: Slide-ons and mules make quick trips to the beach or the pool easier, while sandals with ankle straps or adjustable buckles stay put during more active outings.
Wear TOMS. Wear Good.
The right beach sandals make every part of a trip easier, from sunny days spent walking on warm sand to exploring the sights and local spots. The best pair for you should feel good, be up for whatever the day brings, and look great with anything in your suitcase.
At TOMS, our women’s sandals are designed for extended wear and with a look that fits right in. Whether you’re going for a laid-back coastal vibe or an elegant night out by the water, you’ll find the perfect pair in our collection. Plus, with every purchase you’re supporting community-driven change and grassroots efforts that make a long-term impact.
Check out our women’s shoe collection and get out there to seize the summer day!