What Shoes to Pack for a Beach Holiday: Stylish, Comfy & Travel-Ready Picks

Packing for a beach holiday is supposed to be exciting, right? But we also get the struggle that comes with thinking, “What shoes should I pack in my suitcase? Flip-flops? Sandals? Trainers? Heels (just in case)? It’s almost like you’re trying to solve a puzzle where everything has to match your outfits, feel comfortable, and still look cute in all your pictures.

A beach holiday should be fun, but we all know there are so many factors to consider: the weather, whether or not you’ll go out into the town centre, dinner plans, and so many other little things. We completely get it and we’ve hacked the code!

If you’ve ever thrown on seven pairs of shoes “just to be safe,” then ended up wearing the same two, you’re not going to be the first and certainly won't be the last. So, if you're stuck wondering how to choose beach shoes, don’t sweat it, we’ve got your back with the perfect list.

The Roast

Flip-flops, strappy sandals, espadrilles, sliders, trainers, and cute mules are your go-to choices for a beach holiday

Neutral colors like white, tan, and beige go with everything (yes, everything)—so you won’t stress over matching shoes to outfits

Footwear that has grip, breathability, and water resistance is your best friend on sandy, salty, and slippery beach paths

Flip-Flops, the MVP of the Beach Scene

If the beach had a shoe mascot, flip-flops would win hands down, anytime, any day. Lightweight, breezy, and easy to slip on after a swim, they are the answer to the question: what footwear is comfortable on the beach? They let your feet breathe and dry off quickly, which means no soggy shoes.

Tip: go for ones with a cushioned sole and soft strap, especially if you’ll be walking long beach paths. And don’t go too cheap—your toes deserve better than plastic blisters.

Sliders: Comfy, Cool, and Kinda Chic

Sliders have had a total glow-up in recent years. No longer just for locker rooms, they’ve hit fashion feeds in bold colors, plush textures, and even embellished styles. They’re perfect when you're heading to the pool or beach bar but still want to look put-together.

So when you’re stuck asking, what shoes are people wearing this summer?—sliders are definitely at the top of the list. Just slip them on and go. No fuss, no stress. Exactly what you need for your beach holiday.

Sandals for That Casual-Cute Vibe

Sandals do it every single time! They are a classic vacation staple. Whether it’s leather straps, boho laces, or block-heeled beauties, there’s a pair for every style. The trick is choosing a comfy pair that’s versatile enough to dress up or down.

If you're wondering, what shoes should I pack in my suitcase, make sure sandals make the cut, especially something in tan or nude, because which color of shoes is best for all dresses? Neutral tones. Always.

Trainers: Should I Take Trainers on Holiday?

Short answer? Yes. Long answer? Still yes. And it's always going to be a yes. Trainers are lifesavers when you’re doing more than just lounging. Beach town walks, airport hustle, morning hikes—you name it. A comfy pair of trainers won’t let you down.

But we understand many people still have questions like, “can I wear trainers to the beach? Technically, yes. After all, the beach is also a holiday. Just don’t take your favorite white ones near wet sand unless you want them to cry salty tears. Speaking of which—are white trainers still trendy? Always and forever. They’re the little black dress shoes. You can never regret carrying them along.

Espadrilles for Laid-Back Luxury

Do you want to elevate your outfits without heels? Espadrilles have your name written all over them. With Espadrilles, the result will always be a beachy glam and comfy girl-next-door. They are especially perfect for dinners by the shore, sunset cocktails, or strolling through charming seaside markets.

When making your pick, choose the ones with closed toes if you’re worried about sandy toes, or go full-on open if you just want to let your feet feel the breeze. Bonus? They usually match sundresses perfectly.

Cute Mules and Slip-Ons

These are your secret weapons when you want to look dressed up but still chill. They slide right on (ideal for when you’re running late for dinner) and look good with both maxi dresses and beachy co-ords.

Just one pair of mules is the answer to the common question, “how many pairs of shoes for a 2-week holiday?” A pair of mules definitely deserves suitcase space. They’re light, stylish, and work with almost everything.

Water Shoes: Underrated but Genius

Let’s be honest, water shoes don’t win fashion points. But if your beach trip includes rocky shores, kayaking, or exploring tide pools, they’re lowkey genius. They protect your feet and keep you from slipping or stepping on something sharp.

So, if you’re the adventurous type, add these to your list when deciding how to prepare for a beach trip. Your future blister-free self will thank you.

Barefoot on the Beach: Yes or No?

Is it better to walk barefoot or in shoes on the beach? Honestly, both have their moments. Barefoot is great when you’re on soft, warm sand. It feels freeing, grounding, even therapeutic. But if it’s rocky, shell-filled, or scorching hot? Shoes win.

Always read the room (or, in this case, the sand). Sometimes, your feet just want to feel the earth. Other times, they want to be protected like royalty.

Tips for Finding Shoes That Fit Properly

Shoes that look good but feel awful? Major holiday buzzkill. Before packing that cute pair, here are some tips for finding shoes that fit properly:

Try them on later in the day – Your feet swell, especially in the heat
Walk around in them – Not just a few steps, do the full strut
Check the sole and grip – Slippery sandals and wet floors don’t mix
Bend them – A flexible sole equals happy feet on long walks
Break them in beforehand – Beach trips are not the time for first-time wear

No one wants blisters on Day 2 of their 14-day getaway, so be kind to your feet.

How to Choose Beach Shoes That Actually Work

Think about your itinerary: Are you mostly lounging, exploring, dining out, or doing water sports? Match your shoes to the vibe. A good rule is to pack:

1 pair of flip-flops or sliders (beach basics)
1 pair of sandals or espadrilles (casual cute)
1 pair of comfy trainers (for exploring or flights)
Optional: 1 pair of mules or water shoes (based on plans)

You don’t need to bring your entire shoe rack—just the smart picks. Remember, the lighter your luggage, the happier your back and your airline check-in agent.

Ways to Dress for the Beach (That Work with Your Shoes!)

Now that we’ve figured out the footwear, let’s talk ways to dress for the beach. Simply, let’s talk outfit pairings because no beach look is complete without a solid head-to-toe vibe. Here's what we recommend:

Flip-Flops + Bikini + Sarong + Beach Hat
Sliders + Oversized Shirt Dress + Tote Bag
Sandals + Linen Pants + Crop Top + Statement Earrings
Trainers + Bike Shorts + Tank + Crossbody Bag
Espadrilles + Flowy Midi Dress + Straw Hat
Mules + Co-ord Set + Sunglasses + Mini Purse

From beach walks to seaside dinners, your shoe game is now on point. You can tweak our recommendation with your personal touch, but ensure to mix and match outfits with your shoes. That way, you’ll always be vacation-ready.

Final Thoughts: Walk This Way

Figuring out what shoes for a beach holiday to pack doesn’t have to be a stressful checklist marathon. Stick to what feels comfy, works with your outfits, and suits the trip you’re planning. Whether you're sunbathing, exploring, or chasing sunsets, the right pair of shoes can make every step stylish and stress-free.

So when next someone asks, “What shoes should I pack in my suitcase?”—you’ll know exactly what to say. Happy packing, happy feet, and happy beach vibes! Now, go kick back and enjoy those ocean views because you earned it.