When I’m headed to the beach—either in SoCal or on annual trips to Hawaii or Mexico—I choose my footwear as strategically as my beach gear. Not all sandals are a match for the sticky sand, crashing waves, and uneven terrain. I look for shoes that are easy to clean, comfortable to walk in, and versatile enough to go from a sunny beach chaise to a glossy hotel restaurant. Ideally, they’re waterproof, too, or at least water-resistant.

We took a deep dive into footwear of all sorts, testing casual slides, stylish wedges, and strappy flip-flops to determine the best beach sandals for any trip that involves sand and water. We tested each pair on beaches around the world, both in and around water to find the best beach sandals for your next vacation.

Top Picks

Why We Love It

Both the toe and heel straps can be adjusted for the perfect fit on these comfy, supportive sandals.

What to Consider

They’re very casual and hard to dress up.

When it comes to a good fit, shoe sizing is only part of the equation.…