There’s nothing quite like a beachside wedding ceremony. Whenever we’ve RSVP’d “yes” for someone’s nuptials beach nuptials, the first focus of our beach-chic aesthetic has been the footwear. Looking for the best shoes for a beach wedding is a fashion catch-22 — in a place where we’re generally barefoot or in flip-flops, we need to look polished and presentable, and yet not have a formal, black-tie look and feel. If you thought that striking a balance between all-day comfort and style limits your options, think again. We looked for — and found — excellent options for beachy footwear for both men and women, which will keep you comfortable without sacrificing fashion. Here’s a detailed guide to the best beach wedding footwear for everyone, from the brides and grooms to the wedding guest party that’s heading out to the shore.
Table of contents
DREAM PAIRS Women’s T-Strap Thong Sandals
13
We begin with the DREAM PAIRS Women’s T-Strap Thong Sandals, a fan favorite with nearly 6,400 5-star reviews on Amazon, and it’s easy to see why. These laid-back footwear essentials were perfect for the casual theme of our friends’ beachside wedding. Firstly, there was the chic T-strap design, which not only gave us a firm grip to walk on the sand but also ensured stability due to the wide design. This is where the brand took advantage of colors, with multiple colors available on the T-strap design, enhancing our look and allowing us to match footwear with our dresses. Moreover, the delicate cutout details not only upped the chicness quotient but also kept our feet ventilated throughout the day. Wrapping things up was the skin-friendly insole, which allowed us to walk on the sand comfortably.
Pros
- Thanks to the ankle strap, we weren’t worried about the sandals slipping out.
- They were perfect for the beach aesthetic and vibe of the wedding.
- They came in multiple colors and sizes.
Cons
- They might be a bit too flat for those who want arch support.
Buy on:
Hey Dude Men’s Wally Stretch Canvas Shoes
12
The Hey Dude Men’s Wally Stretch Canvas Shoes are one of the best pieces of footwear men can wear to a beachside wedding. There were a lot of things we loved about these shoes, starting with the rounded toe and flex & fold design, which gave us complete freedom of movement and supported healthy feet. Besides being lightweight and comfortable, these shoes also came with elastic laces, resulting in the shoes fitting us more uniformly. Moreover, with the pair weighing 12 oz. or less, it was one of the lightest pairs on this list. Finally, the removable memory foam cushioned insole provided maximum comfort when we had to walk on the sand, while also keeping our feet moisture- and odor-free.
Pros
- The shoes were available in 20 colors and multiple sizes, including half sizes and wide widths.
- We loved the lightweight nature of the shoes.
- The cushioned insole and the elastic laces added to the overall comfort.
Cons
- The canvas isn’t exactly waterproof.
Buy on:
SHIBEVER Ankle Strap Women’s Sandals
11
The SHIBEVER Ankle Strap Women’s Sandals were the optimum blend of comfort and style. There were a lot of varied elements we loved about these sandals, starting with the non-slip rubber outsole and the comfortable insole. Together, they made sure that we were comfortable when walking on the sand. Furthering the snug and comfortable fit was the elastic back strap, which allowed for easily putting them on and slipping them off. If that wasn’t enough, the sandals had arch support as well, which made walking on the sand all the more comfortable. However, these boho sandals aren’t just about functionality; we loved the braided strap and the applique flower rhinestone additions. These unique, fancy sandals had us turning heads all the time!
“We loved that these sandals blended functionality, comfort, and style, and that they even went with the beach wedding vibe.”
Dizzzi
Pros
- These rhinestone sandals come in multiple colors and sizes.
- The rhinestone additions add panache and style to the sandals.
- These sandals even had arch support and a comfortable insole.
Cons
- Some said that finding a fit could be an issue.
Buy on:
Dockers Men’s Slide Sandals
10
Best men’s sandals. Since the beach wedding we were attending had a boho-chic vibe, these Dockers Men’s Slide Sandals went perfectly with our laid-back linen shirt and pants attire. Available in four neutral colors and multiple sizes, including wide ones, these sandals come with multiple comfort features. Firstly, we loved the memory foam insoles, which took the shape of our feet for instant comfort. Moreover, the Fusion Footbed added an additional layer of cushioning, ensuring that we could walk comfortably on the sand after the ceremony. The distressed, tumbled manmade uppers lent a boho-chic vibe to the sandals, while the generous fit offered a relaxed and roomier fit. Rounding things up was the flexible yet durable construction with a rubber outsole.
Pros
- We loved the roomier, relaxed, and more comfortable fit.
- The sandals came in multiple colors and size options.
- They were very easy to put on and take off.
Cons
- They didn’t have half sizes.
Buy on:
DREAM PAIRS Women’s Elastic Ankle Strap Sandals
9
We’ve always been fans of gladiators, so to wear them to a beach wedding was a dream come true. Behold the Dream Pairs Women’s Elastic Ankle Strap Sandals, which feature a timeless design in an easy slip-on style. The cute gladiators featured elastic crisscross straps, which not only looked elegant but also ensured a snug fit. Furthering the comfy fit was the back zipper, which ensured that the sandals were easy to put on and take off. Thanks to the lightweight, patterned TPR sole, they offered us greater stability and support as we walked on the sand. Aside from the fact that they were available in multiple bright and neutral colors, they were also available in multiple sizes, including half sizes. So, no matter the size of your feet, you’re sure to find a pair that you love and that suits your feet.
Pros
- They’re lightweight and easy to carry.
- These sandals were available in multiple colors and sizes.
- They offered a snug and comfortable fit.
Cons
- Some mentioned that the durability was so-so when the shoes went into the water.
Buy on:
Bruno Moda Italy Men’s Prince Classic Oxford Dress Shoes
8
The Bruno Moda Italy Men’s Prince Classic Oxford Dress Shoes weren’t exactly what we’d wear to a beach, but it was certainly something we considered wearing to upscale beach nuptials! Since the vibe was somewhere between black-tie and upscale casual, these shoes went perfectly with our attire. There were many things we loved about these shoes, the first of which was that they were available in multiple sizes, including half sizes and wide widths. Secondly, they had a classic design that exuded timeless elegance to our beach wedding look. With a sweat-wicking latex insole and breathable lining, the shoes provided comfort, cushioning, and all-day comfort. Wrapping things up was the textured outsole and the easy-upkeep PU upper, which combined practicality and style.
Pros
- These shoes offered versatile appeal with the brogue wingtip and the cap-toe styles.
- Their slip-on style made it easy for us to put them on and take them off.
- They were comfortable to wear all day long.
Cons
- They might not suit casual beach weddings.
Buy on:
Monrovia Platform Wedge Slides
7
The Monrovia Platform Wedge Slides were perfect for the summer wedding we attended at the beachside. Featuring a platform heel of less than 1.5 inches, these sandals were very easy to put on and take off, thanks to the open-toe style. What’s more, the cushioned insole and the supportive platform provided comfort and stability during the time we were walking around the sandy beach. In fact, we were even comfortable during the long walk we took along the beach. The straw, woven raffia material was long-lasting, durable, and soft on our skin, with the sturdy sole providing an excellent grip. Besides the fact that they came in multiple sizes, including half sizes, the slides also came in a riot of colors, ensuring that everyone found a pair suiting their style.
Pros
- The sandals came in multiple colors and sizes, including half sizes.
- The open-toe slide design ensured easy in, easy out.
- They were very comfortable.
Cons
- They were expensive.
Buy on:
Bruno Marc Men’s Driving Penny Loafers
6
Best men’s shoes. The Bruno Marc Men’s Driving Penny Loafers struck the perfect balance between casual and chic for the beach wedding we were attending. There were a lot of features we loved about these slip-on shoes, starting with the fact that they featured a faux leather upper with detailed stitching across the entire shoe. What’s more, the latex cushioned manmade footbed along with the durable outsole meant that we could walk long distances on the sand without our feet feeling tired. Comfortable, flexible, and lightweight, these shoes also boasted an easy slip-on, slip-off design.
- Classic moc toe Design
- Heel height: 0.5″ (approx)
Pros
- We loved the classic moc toe design and the low heel height of 0.5 inches.
- The loafers were the perfect blend of upscale and casual.
- They were available in multiple sizes, including half sizes.
Cons
- They’re slightly pricey.
Buy on:
Domucos Women’s Slip-On Hollow Out Jelly Loafers
5
Who would’ve thought that a pair of women’s loafers would look good at a beach wedding? We’re talking about the Domucos Women’s Slip-On Hollow Out Jelly Loafers, which look like loafers and are comfortable, but they feature a hollow-out design. So, they felt like decorative “honorary” loafers more than anything else! There were many things we loved about the loafers, starting with the fact that they boasted a PVC insole and a super-soft synthetic material construction. What’s more, the beautifully textured soles, the round-toe flats, and the easy slip-on style made them perfect for pairing with all sorts of dresses, including maxi dresses. However, the standout was the hollowed-out design, which was quick-drying, cool, and breathable.
Pros
- They came in four amazing colors.
- The hollowed-out design not only looked stylish but also kept our feet breathable.
- They came in half sizes as well.
Cons
- The shoes didn’t smell good when they were out of the box, but they just needed to be ventilated.
Buy on:
Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Gaston Sandals
4
If you were disappointed reading the brand name on a list of stylish footwear, you needn’t worry. Behold the Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Gaston Sandals, a pair of seriously stylish sandals perfect for boho-chic beach nuptials. There were a lot of things we loved about these fisherman-inspired men’s sandals, starting with the all-over cushioning and the closed-toe design. What’s more, these sustainably crafted sandals were made from 51% leather and 49% faux leather, complete with a super-soft, feel-good lining. Moreover, the adjustable hook-and-loop heel strap not only ensured a snug fit but also allowed us to easily put on and take off these sandals.
Pros
- The full-grain leather upper made the sandals look classy.
- Thanks to the buckle closure and the adjustable strap, we were ensured a snug and comfortable fit.
- We loved the memory foam insole.
Cons
- They weren’t available in half sizes.
Buy on:
DREAM PAIRS Open-Toe Buckle Ankle-Strap Platform Wedge Sandals
3
Best women’s heels. There’s something classic, sexy, and yet timeless about wedge sandals. That’s why we chose the DREAM PAIRS Open-Toe Buckle Ankle-Strap Platform Wedge Sandals. These versatile sandals were the perfect blend of modern and classic style while featuring glossy-finished vegan leather straps. Even though they had 3-inch wedge heels, these sandals were effortless to walk in while also offering an instantaneous height boost. Thanks to the adjustable buckle and the ankle strap, we were able to get a more snug and customized fit, which allowed us to have a firmer grip while walking. Rounding things up were the faux suede footbed and the durable outsole, the combination of which offered unparalleled comfort, support, and a grippy, exceptional grip on sandy surfaces.
Pros
- The wedge sandals come in many colors.
- We loved the stability and comfort of the footbed and the durable outsole.
- The adjustable buckle ensured a firmer grip while walking.
Cons
- The 3-inch heel height might be a bit too high for some.
Buy on:
VILOCY Men’s Casual Dress Sneakers
2
The VILOCY Men’s Casual Dress Sneakers were another of our favorite pairs of footwear to wear to a beach wedding. The breathable, stretchy, and knitted fabric upper allowed our feet to not only breathe freely but also stretch. So, we stayed comfortable in the humid sea breeze. Secondly, the flexible, lightweight, and soft fabric lining provided extra comfort. Thanks to the lace-up closure with an elastic collar, it was very easy to put on and take off this footwear, too, which was a great comfort for a beach wedding. Rounding things up was the removable buffer memory foam insole, which took the shape of our feet and allowed for an excellent fit.
Pros
- These shoes were available in multiple sizes, including half sizes and wide widths.
- They were available in multiple colors.
- The fit was excellent.
Cons
- The fabric can get wet easily.
Buy on:
Plaka Flat Sandals
1
Best women’s sandals. Sitting at the top of the list were the Plaka Flat Sandals, which radiated oodles of style without compromising on functionality and comfort. They perfectly complemented the summer wedding look we’d chosen for ourselves. Every pair has been hand-woven and crafted to perfection, complete with vegan-friendly, durable rubber soles. Furthering the comfort were the stunningly woven stretch-to-fit straps, which were made from premium nylon specifically designed to reduce blisters and rubbing. Moreover, they were cute and comfy for exploring the beach town, relaxing by the pool, and taking a walk on the beach, besides attending wedding rituals. Finally, they were ideally suited for medium- to narrow-sized feet. Check out the official product page.
Pros
- The timeless design came in a riot of colors.
- These flats were as stylish as they were comfortable.
- We loved the comfy sole and the stretchy straps.
Cons
- None, really.
Buy on:
Our Verdict!
Write a summary paragraph to tell the readers why these products are the best based on our judgment. Follow with a list of more specific categories of these products (e.g., Best value for money: Product A, Best quality: Product B, etc.)
- Best men’s sandals: Dockers Men’s Slide Sandals
- Best men’s shoes: Bruno Marc Men’s Driving Penny Loafers
- Best women’s heels: DREAM PAIRS Open-Toe Buckle Ankle-Strap Platform Wedge Sandals
- Best women’s sandals: Plaka Flat Sandals
How To Choose The Best Shoes For Beach Wedding?
Beach Wedding Footwear For Women
Flats
- Slides: Slides are one of the most popular styles of footwear you could wear to a beach wedding, especially strappy slides. Not only are they a breeze to put on and take off, but they also come in a variety of textures, prints, and colors.
- Espadrilles/Wedges: Wedges and espadrilles are the best sandle-style footwear for the beach. Not only can they be easily dressed up or down, but they even add a bit of height without digging into the sand. Moreover, the great thing about them is that they’re full of boho-inspired details like rope, raffia, and jute braids.
- Strappy sandals: Finally, we suggest strappy flat sandals, such as gladiator sandals, which pair very well with breezy, floral, and boho dresses.
Heels
- Kitten Heels: Whoever said that one couldn’t wear heels to a beach wedding? For instance, kitten heels are perfect for channeling ’50s glam while also being trendy and comfortable.
- Block Heels: Block heels are extremely popular as they offer day-long comfort and make it very easy to walk in the sand.
Beach Wedding Footwear For Men
- Loafers: Loafers are a timeless choice for dress shoes for males to wear to beach weddings, as casual loafers look good with everything. Not only that, but they’re also easy to put on and take off, especially if you want to walk along the water.
- Boat Shoes: Boat shoes are another classic, as they pair well with more casual beach shindig outfits. If it’s not a black-tie event, boat shoes are the way to go.
- Driving Shoes: Driving shoes are the best of both; they have the relaxed feel of boat shoes and the sophistication of loafers.
Meanwhile, you might also want to start beach wedding planning by reading up about the best wedding welcome signs Etsy sells and the best plus-sized summer wedding guest dresses.
Can you wear wedges in the sand?
Yes, absolutely, as they feel firm on the sand and won’t sink into it.
Do block heels sink in sand?
No, block heels cover more surface area, which ensures that they won’t sink in the sand when you walk.
Can Men Wear Sandals To A Beach Wedding?
Yes, why not? Men can wear sandals to a casual/outdoor beach wedding, but lean more towards dressier sandals and not flip-flops. Boat shoes and loafers might be a better fit for more formal beach weddings.