We Found the 13 Best Shoes for Beach Walking, Tidepooling, and More
Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.
Our top picks will help you enjoy the surf while keeping sand and shells at bay
Verywell Fit / David Hattan
Medically reviewed by Erin Pereira, PT, DPT
Hitting the beach for a sandy stroll can quickly turn into a hassle without the proper footwear, from waterlogged sneakers that fall apart to itchy, uncomfortable debris in your shoes. Thankfully, there are plenty of solid options available for taking your workout near the water, says Dr. Bruce Pinker, DPM, a podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon.
When shopping for shoes for beach walking, Pinker suggests looking for a comfortable, supportive pair made with waterproof materials that dry quickly and are easy to clean. They should also be durable, with enough traction to keep you stable on slippery rocks, sharp shells, and wet sand.
To find the best shoes for beach walking, we consulted Pinker and Nicholas Duran, NASM-CPT, a yoga teacher and personal trainer based in Los Angeles, California, for their advice on which features are the most important for taking safe strides on the sand. We researched dozens of options on the market and evaluated them based on cost, sizing, support, waterproofing, durability, and more to refine our top picks. We also had a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy and an athletic trainer from our Review Board review this article for accuracy and the best way to evaluate shoes for beach walking.
Best Women’s Overall: KEEN Whisper Closed Toe Sport Sandals
Pros
Toe guards for protection
Bungees make it easy to adjust fit
Comfortable contoured footbed
Cons
Expensive
KEEN’s Whisper Closed Toe Sandal is our top overall women’s shoe because it provides the ideal mix of durable protection and breezy comfort for beach walking. With a quick-drying, washable upper, you can log steps in these lightweight sandals without fear of chafing or blisters. We also like the bungee lacing system, which is easy to adjust for a secure, personalized fit.
The thick, foam footbed and midsole absorb impact while you walk. Contoured to fit the shape of your feet, the footbed offers the right amount of support for neutral arches, making these sandals comfortable for a wide range of wearers. And the robust outsoles offer great traction in wet or deep sand.
We also love that the Whisper features toe bumpers in the front, which are handy for keeping your feet safe from rocks, driftwood, and the occasional crab or shell. Truly a do-it-all sandal available in a wide range of colors, it’s suitable for hiking in and out of the water. While the Whisper is more of an investment than other shoes on our list, we feel their stellar design and comfort-forward features make them worth the higher price tag.
Price at time of publication: $115
Key Specs:
Type: Sandal | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Materials: Polyester webbing, elastic laces, mesh lining, foam footbed, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Quick-drying, washable upper, easy-on heel loop, bungee lacing with cord locks, toe guards
Best Men’s Overall: ALEADER Men's Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes
Pros
Drainage ports
Sock-style upper prevents sand from entering
Hybrid design offers great arch support
Cons
Debris can get stuck in the outsole
Our top overall men’s pick is this slip-on water shoe that takes you to and from the beach in subtle style.
The hybrid design, which resembles a running shoe, features a neoprene and mesh upper that’s quick to shed sand and water. Plus, the soft midsole and sturdy outsole have built-in drainage ports throughout to release water that might weigh you down or lead to blisters.
These shoes are lightweight and flexible, making them responsive on deep or uneven sand. The closed-toe design protects your feet, and we love the bungee lace system that makes these easy to slip on and off. Also, unlike other water shoes, these have solid arch support to keep you going for miles.
The rubber outsole has good traction for walking across sandy dunes and slick, wet rocks. However, the outsole’s breathable design does mean small debris can get stuck, which may be uncomfortable and annoying to remove. Still, we like that this budget-friendly pair is available in a wide variety of neutral color combinations.
Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon.
Price at time of publication: $32
Key Specs:
Type: Water shoe | Sizes: Men’s 7 to 14 | Materials: Neoprene and mesh upper, rubber sole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Quick-drying neoprene, drainage ports, heel loop
Best Budget: SEEKWAY Quick-Dry Barefoot Water Shoes
Pros
Breathable
Outsole won’t hold onto sand or mud
Wide range of sizes and colors
Cons
Lacks arch support
Not as protective
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly shoe for strolling down the beach, we recommend these unisex water shoes that are light, easy to pack, and about a tenth of the cost of some other options on our list. Lace-free with a minimalist design, these slip-on water shoes have a polyester and spandex upper that, combined with a honeycomb mesh overlay, breathes well on hot days.
We like that the rubber outsole features shallow lugs that won’t get caked full of sand or mud. The sole also makes them a good choice for paddleboarding and other summer sports. But this water shoe’s minimalist design lacks the arch support that other shoes on our list have, and it doesn’t have a protective toe cap (unlike our top overall pick, Keen’s Whisper Closed Toe Sandal).
Still, we love that this pair rolls up for easy packing to and from the beach, whether you’re tossing them in your beach bag or squeezing them into your suitcase. With dozens of colors and styles to choose from in a range of men’s and women’s sizes, stocking up for yourself or the whole family is easy.
Price at time of publication: $12
Key Specs:
Type: Water shoe | Sizes: Women’s 3 to 13.5, men’s 2 to 12.5 | Materials: Polyester and spandex upper, rubber sole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Breathable mesh, heel loop, lace-free design
Best Sandals: Chacos Women's Z/1 Classic Sandals
Pros
APMA Seal of Acceptance
Contoured footbed promotes good alignment
Great traction
Cons
Expensive
For sandals that can help you navigate the beach with ease, we like these Chacos. They combine comfort, functionality, and style, whether you’re strolling leisurely down the sand or hiking a new shoreline. And we love that they’ve received the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a group of podiatrists has determined that they promote good foot health.
The Z1 has better support than many other sandals on the market, making them perfect for long walks on the beach. The contoured footbed hugs your arch, promoting proper alignment while reducing fatigue and discomfort. We also like the foam cushioning, which provides plenty of shock absorption.
With 3-millimeter lugs, the Z1’s durable outsole offers exceptional traction and protects your feet from rocks, driftwood, and other debris. The sleek strap system is easy to adjust for the perfect, secure fit. Plus, the upper is made from polyester webbing that dries quickly, so you don’t have to worry about getting them wet. Although they’re pricier than most of our other recommendations, we think the Z1 is a solid investment for their high-quality construction, support, and reliable traction.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon.
Price at time of publication: $100
Key Specs:
Type: Sandal | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Materials: Polyester webbing, polyurethane footbed and midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Adjustable straps, lugged outsole
Related: We Found the 23 Best Walking Sandals for Women, After 2,000 Hours of Testing
Best Flip-Flops: Vionic Wave Toe Post Sandal
Pros
APMA Seal of Acceptance
Straps have soft padding
Non-slip footbed
Cons
Not as secure
May run big
Flip-flops are a classic beach staple—but they rarely offer enough support or stability. Like Chaco’s Z1, Vionic’s Wave Sandal has also received the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance, so you can be confident you’re getting both. The molded footbed is made from thick foam, with a textured, non-slip surface to keep you feeling steady on your feet. And if you have high arches or plantar fasciitis, you’ll appreciate the contoured arch that sets the Wave apart from other flip-flops.
We like that the outsoles have a wave-patterned tread, for light traction. But as with any backless shoe, the lack of heel straps makes these not as secure as some of our other picks. Still, we appreciate that the upper is padded with soft, waterproof neoprene and nylon to prevent rubbing and chafing.
These unisex sandals come in neutral colors that match almost any outfit. Just note that the brand recommends sizing down if you usually wear a half size, meaning they may run big.
Price at time of publication: $60
Key Specs:
Type: Sandal | Sizes: Women’s 6 to 15, men’s 5 to 14 | Materials: Nylon webbing and mesh upper, neoprene lining, foam insole and midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Molded arch support, lightly-lugged traction
Best Sneakers: Crocs Women's Literide Pacer Lace-up Sneakers
Pros
Breathable, perforated upper
Lightweight
Odor-resistant
Cons
Soles may wear out over time
Crocs’ Literide Pacer Sneakers are our top pick for tennis shoes that can take you from the streets to the beach. Made from the same foam found in the brand’s Classic Clogs, these lightweight sneakers are cushioned and responsive, thanks to a massaging insole. We also like that they’re water-resistant and odor-resistant, making them durable and easy to maintain.
The foam upper dries quickly, so you can wear them comfortably on the sand, a boat, or a dock. Plus, strategic perforations allow air (and water) to flow in and out of the shoe, keeping your feet feeling dry and comfortable.
These Crocs also lace up, for a secure and adjustable fit. The outsole provides good grip, important for staying stable while walking across sand or wet rocks. However, some wearers have found that the soles tend to wear smooth over time, so you may need to replace them more often.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon.
Price at time of publication: $60
Key Specs:
Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 11 | Materials: Foam midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Drainage ports, odor-resistant insole, lace-up closure
Related: We Researched and Tested the Best Waterproof Sneakers—These 14 Kept Our Feet Dry
Best Water Shoes: Z-joyee Barefoot Quick-Dry Aqua Socks
Pros
Budget-friendly
Wide toe box
Ergonomic, barefoot design
Cons
Runs a half size large
May not be supportive enough for some
This pair from Z-Joyee is our favorite if you’re in the market for new, budget-friendly water shoes. We like that they mimic walking barefoot, but still provide enough traction and protection for beach walking. The wide toe box allows your toes to splay out, promoting better foot health, stability, and a more natural gait.
Unlike most other water shoes, these also have drainage ports in the sole, so you aren’t sloshing around in soggy, heavy shoes all day long. Their minimalist construction makes them lightweight and compact, perfect for traveling—but this also means they don’t have the most support, especially compared to some of our other picks.
The brand notes that these shoes run a half size large, so you may want to size down. But we like that the bungee laces are easy to adjust, for a close fit.
Price at time of publication: $19
Key Specs:
Type: Water shoe | Sizes: Women’s 6 to 19, men’s 5 to 18 | Materials: Lycra upper, rubber outsole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Bungee lacing with cord lock, ergonomic barefoot design, sole drainage ports, heel and tongue tabs
Best Waterproof: Metog Quick-Dry Water Shoes
Pros
Non-slip sole
Budget-friendly
Easy to get on and off
Cons
May not be supportive or protective enough for some
While multiple pairs on our list are waterproof, these are our favorites for their classic water shoe design and budget-friendly price. The sock-like upper is made from quick-drying neoprene that stretches and moves with you as you walk. And we like that you can easily slip these laceless shoes on and off, thanks to the convenient heel tab.
Their lightweight construction makes these shoes easy to pack and carry, so you can bring them along without adding unnecessary bulk to your suitcase or beach bag. Just note that, similar to Z-Joyee’s Aqua Socks, their streamlined, minimalist design doesn’t offer a ton of support or protection. But they do have a non-slip rubber sole, for flexible grip while walking on wet surfaces or enjoying board sports.
These water shoes are available in a wide range of unisex sizes at a fraction of the cost of some of our other picks. They also come in dozens of fun colors and patterns, from solids to galactic prints, so you can choose one (or a few) that fits your style.
Price at time of publication: $17
Key Specs:
Type: Water shoe | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 13.5, men’s 3 to 13.5 | Materials: Neoprene upper, TPE (thermoplastic elastomers) sole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Quick-dry neoprene upper, heel loop
Most Supportive: Ryka Women's Hydro Sport Water Shoe
Pros
Heel drainage ports
Great cushioning
Removable insole
Cons
Debris can get stuck in the outsole
Expensive
Built with quick-drying mesh and a durable sole, we love that Ryka’s high-performance Hydro Sport Trainer is made for both casual outings and high-impact exercise. These sneakers are as supportive as cross trainers, but also waterproof—ideal for beach walking.
A removable molded foam insole provides superior cushioning and shock absorption. And the rubber outsole has multidirectional lugs for better traction between wet and dry terrains. There are even drainage ports in the heel to release water and help you maintain your stride. (Just note that, as with our best men’s overall pick, small debris can get stuck in these while you walk.)
Although they’re one of our more expensive picks, we think the Hydro Sport Trainer’s thoughtful design makes them a smart investment. Choose your favorite style from a selection of bright and neutral colors and patterns.
Price at time of publication: $100
Key Specs:
Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Materials: Synthetic textile and mesh upper, rubber sole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Supportive webbing overlays, waterproof upper, quick lace system, heel tab
Most Durable: Astral Women's Loyak Water Shoes
Pros
Grippy, high-traction rubber outsole
Drainage ports throughout
Stylish design
Cons
Limited size range
For a beach walking shoe that can go the extra mile, we love Astral’s Loyak Water Shoes. They’re engineered for exceptional traction on beach surfaces, with a sticky rubber outsole and a low-profile tread that makes them ideal for navigating sandy shores and slippery rocks.
We also like that the upper is made from a combination of light, breathable mesh and water-resistant canvas that dries quickly, for easy transitions from sea to shore. Strategic drainage holes throughout the sole allow water to escape, while the sock-like lining provides a secure fit that keeps sand out. Plus, the insole provides great cushioning and flexible support, even during long walks.
The versatile Loyaks aren’t just ideal for walking—they’d also be a good choice for water sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, or snorkeling. Although they don’t come in as many sizes as other shoes on our list, we love their casual, stylish design that can take you from the boardwalk to the beach (and basically everywhere in between).
Also available in men’s sizes at REI.
Price at time of publication: $95
Key Specs:
Type: Water shoe | Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Materials: Canvas and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber sole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Water-resistant laces and upper, heel loop, non-slip insole, drainage ports
Best Traction: WateLves Barefoot Quick-Dry Water Shoes
Pros
Multi-directional lugs
Great arch support
Bungees make it easy to adjust fit
Cons
May run small
Plenty of our picks have good traction, but WateLves’ Barefoot Water Shoes stand apart for their barefoot design and multi-directional lugs. Whether you’re walking on sand, rocks, or other slippery surfaces, these water shoes will keep you stable, thanks to an alternating lug pattern and a sticky rubber outsole.
Ergonomically designed to allow your feet and toes to naturally spread out, these comfortable water shoes feature durable toe caps for hiking and climbing. We like that the outsole is flexible, yet thick enough to protect feet from beach debris, a step above other aqua socks. And seven drainage ports on each shoe help efficiently channel out any water, keeping your feet dry and chafe-free.
The quick-drying, stretchy upper has a bungee lace system that’s easy to adjust for the perfect fit. We also appreciate that they have a foam arch support inside for more support, which sets this pair apart from many of our other picks. Choose from over 30 colors and patterns—just note that some wearers have found these run small, so you may want to order a size up from your usual.
Price at time of publication: $50
Key Specs:
Type: Barefoot water shoe | Sizes: Women’s 4.5 to 15.5, men’s 3 to 14.5 | Materials: Fabric upper, foam arch support insert, rubber outsole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Bungee lacing with cord lock, ergonomic barefoot design, sole drainage ports, heel loop, toe guards
Most Comfortable: Crocs Classic Clogs
Pros
Optional heel strap
Floats in water
Easy to clean and quick-drying
Cons
May be too wide for some
Crocs’ Classic Clogs are famed for their iconic silhouette and time-tested design, making them our top pick for a beach walking shoe that’s comfortable enough to wear all day long. We like that there are multiple ways to wear them, whether you prefer to slip the strap behind your heel, over your midfoot, or pop it off of the shoes altogether.
Made from ultra-light thermoplastic, the original Crocs are easy to clean and actually float in water, so you can quickly track them down in rough surf if needed. The wide toe box provides plenty of room for your feet and toes, although some wearers note they can feel a bit too roomy.
The molded footbed offers good arch support, while texture inside the shoe and on the outsole provides stability and traction as you walk. Drainage holes on top of the upper allow air to circulate to keep your feet cool and enable water to flow in and out of the clogs freely. There are dozens of colors to choose from, but we also love that you can add Crocs’ shoe charms (called Jibbitz) for a fun, personalized touch.
Designed for comfort, these roomy beach shoes aren’t ideal for high-impact activities—in that case, we’d recommend a more streamlined option like Astral’s Loyak Water Shoes.
Price at time of publication: $50
Key Specs:
Type: Clog | Sizes: Women’s 4 to 10, men’s 2 to 17 | Materials: Thermoplastic upper and outsole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Drainage holes, optional heel strap
Related: Tested and Approved: The 10 Best Comfort Shoes for Walking and Running
Best Stability: The Shore Shoe Stability Sandal
Pros
Wide, flat sole
Adjustable hook-and-loop straps
Cons
Expensive
If you struggle with stability on the sand, we recommend this pair of sandals that provides a wide platform for traversing uneven dunes. The Shore Shoe’s wide, flat sole helps evenly distribute your weight, so you can walk confidently along the shoreline.
The light foam midsole helps absorb shock, while the non-slip insole is contoured for subtle arch support. And we like that the thermoplastic rubber outsole features a fun design that’s also functional, providing good traction on wet surfaces.
The leather straps have a hook-and-loop closure for maximum adjustability, making these sandals easy to slip on and off. Although they’re one of the more expensive pairs on our list, we think their thoughtful, innovative design is worth the investment. Choose from two neutral color options that pair well with plenty of warm weather outfits.
Price at time of publication: $130
Key Specs:
Type: Sandal | Sizes: Women’s 7 to 12, men’s 5 to 12 | Materials: Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: Yes | Features: Wide platform, adjustable straps, heel loop
How We Selected the Best Shoes for Beach Walking
To find the best shoes for beach walking, we first spoke with podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Bruce Pinker, DPM, for his guidance on walking shoe design, fit, and functionality. We also consulted Nicholas Duran, NASM CPT, a personal trainer and yoga teacher based in Los Angeles, California, about which features shoes for beach walking should have, plus advice on how to shop for them.
Then, we researched dozens of shoes from top-rated brands. We look for pairs that ranked highly in key areas like sizing, waterproofing, support, price, and more. Using guidance from our experts, we selected shoes that feel comfortable, stable, and supportive on wet, uneven sand and rocks. Our writer, a certified personal trainer and runner, also applied her personal experience to detail our recommendations in this guide.
What to Look For in Shoes for Beach Walking
Materials
“Chances are your shoes are going to get wet while walking on the beach, and it will definitely be sandy,” says Duran, who hits the beach often for yoga sessions. He recommends looking for shoes that dry quickly and are easy to clean. “Many of the best beach footwear is composed of synthetics, such as neoprene and rubber, to provide better durability and protection from water,” says Pinker. Both experts also suggest prioritizing shoes that breathe, with flexible support for your feet and lower legs that can handle resistance from the sand.
Waterproofing
Beach walking shoes made with waterproof materials won’t weigh you down or let your feet sit too long in moisture, which can cause blisters, bacteria, foot fungus, and other issues. They also typically have better traction for navigating slippery rocks or uneven sand. Look for water shoes, “aqua” shoes, or other footwear that’s designed to get wet, like Ryka’s Hydro Sport Training Shoe. These pairs dry quickly, protect your feet from debris, and will last longer against moisture that can damage traditional sneakers.
Fit
Your shoes should feel snug, but not too tight. The tip of your longest toe should be about 1 centimeter from the end of your shoe, according to Pinker. They should feel comfortable and supportive, to prevent pain and injuries as you get your steps in. “Ordering online can be challenging for finding a good fit, as some brands run large and some run small,” he says. To ensure you’re getting the right fit, we recommend measuring your feet and checking each brand’s size charts before making a purchase.
When in doubt, stick to your standard workout shoe size, says Duran. “The sand is going to give some feedback and you don’t want the shoe slipping off, especially if it gets wet,” he says.
Traction
Proper traction for beach walking is important to prevent slips and falls, as well as to ensure comfortable walking, Pinker says. Both experts recommend wearing shoes with comfortable, supportive insoles and flexible rubber outsoles that have enough grip for mixed terrains.
Near the water, you will encounter packed sand, rocks, and even broken shells that make for a harder walking surface, Duran says. Farther away from the water, the sand is softer and usually deeper, so you’ll want some flexibility and traction in your shoes to push you forward, he adds. For navigating the shoreline safely, we recommend shoes like WateLves’ Barefoot Quick-Dry Water Shoes, which have multi-directional lugs to keep you feeling steady and secure.
Durability
Your beach walking shoes will need to withstand sand, water, mud, rocks, driftwood, shells, and more. Synthetic materials, such as mesh, neoprene, and rubber, are often seen as the best options for durability and longevity. Grippy rubber outsoles will also endure wear and tear against hard, sharp surfaces. Investing in well-made beach shoes will ensure they last an entire summer season or even longer, Pinker says. We recommend Astral’s Loyak Water Shoes, which feature a tough, hybrid sneaker design that’s made from abrasion-resistant materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is walking on the beach good for you?
Yes, says Duran: Spending time by the water can have many mental, emotional, and physical benefits which make beach walking a great low-impact form of exercise. “Walking on the beach burns more calories because of the challenging resistance the sand creates, especially in deeper parts of the beach,” he explains. “You have to work harder to keep up your normal pace, maintain balance and stability, and it challenges your proprioception.”
Is it better to walk on the beach barefoot or in sneakers?
It depends. “Sneakers will provide added support and traction and will protect the feet from rocks, shells, and other objects,” Pinker explains. But if you prefer to walk barefoot, he says that as long as you’re aware of the risks and take the necessary precautions, you can do so effectively and safely. Still, nothing compares with the protection and support of proper footwear. For a happy medium, we recommend wearing a minimalist water shoe like Z-Joyee’s Barefoot Quick-Dry Aqua Socks.
What shoes should you wear when walking on the beach?
Duran recommends a shoe that is supportive and flexible, so it can move with you while you walk. Pinker adds that supportive water shoes made from fast-drying materials like neoprene and mesh are best. Various sandals and water-friendly sneakers, like Crocs’ Literide Pacer Sneakers, are also safe to wear, he says. A comfortable, flexible pair made with light and durable materials that dry quickly will help you get the most out of shoreline strolls.
How much should you expect to pay for beach walking shoes?
You can expect to pay between $15 and $100 for a pair of high-quality beach walking shoes. Less expensive options (like SEEKWAY’s Quick-Dry Water Shoes) may not be as stylish, but they tend to be more minimalist. More expensive options (like Astral’s Loyak Water Shoes) are often versatile enough to be worn from brunch to the beach, but they’re harder to replace after they wear out. Regardless of whether you opt for water shoes, sandals, or water-resistant sneakers, rest assured that you can find a reliable pair at a price that fits your budget and style.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
A certified personal trainer and runner, Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT and CNC, regularly researches the latest and best in active footwear. When strolling the beaches of California, where she lives, she prefers a minimalist, zero-drop shoe with good traction, like WateLves’ Barefoot Quick-Dry Water Shoes. For this guide, she prioritized walking shoes from trustworthy brands that are durable, safe, and versatile for a variety of beach settings and foot types.
Related: The 10 Best Beach Cruiser Bikes
