Summer travel is on the horizon, and with it comes the ever-present question: Which shoes should you pack for a beach vacation that are not only stylish, but make your trip as enjoyable and comfortable as possible? Packing light is always a priority, but it’s equally important to have versatile shoes that suit various occasions and terrains, like sand, pool decks, boardwalks or casual dinners by the water. From resort lounging to sandy strolls, the right shoes can make or break your summer trip. When it comes to choosing travel shoes for a beach vacation, Rothy’s ticks all the boxes for comfort, style, and practicality. Dive into our guide below and the best shoes to pack for your summer vacay getaway.
What to Look for in Beach Vacation Shoes
When packing for a summer beach vacation, it’s important to pack for the occasion. Plan for sandy days, hot temperatures, oceanside dinners and casual environments. Here are a few key features to consider when guiding your shoe selection:
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Comfort: Comfort is paramount for days walking along the shore or exploring beachside towns. It’s best to look for comfortable shoes that offer ample arch support, cushioning, and breathability. Summer sandals that are easy to slip on and off and comfortable for walking on both sand and hot pavement are the ones you’ll reach for most during your trip.
- Versatility: A good summer travel shoe should be adaptable to multiple settings. You may need shoes that can take you from the airport to a resort, or from the beach to a boardwalk dinner. Opt for shoes that can blend with both casual and more dressed-up looks, saving valuable luggage space.
- Style: When you’re on vacation, it’s important to feel good in your shoes. Look for summer travel shoes that complement your style and give you confidence. Whether you're a sandals person or prefer closed toe shoes, the right pair can elevate your entire outfit during your beach vacation. Aim for shoes that achieve the perfect blend of style and comfort, and match the occasion. Think shoes that you can mix and match with swimsuits and cover ups, breezy linen dresses, or even denim shorts and a tank top.
- Packability: Space in your luggage is limited, so choose shoes that are easy to pack. Shoes that are lightweight, flexible, and able to be packed alongside swimwear and beach towels without losing their shape are ideal for a summer beach adventure.
With those criteria in mind, check out the best Rothy’s shoes for both women and men to take on your summer beach getaway.
Best Women’s Shoes for Beach Vacations
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Sandals: For sunny days by the beach, pool or casual outings, our women’s sandals are here to support you at every event. From easy slides—like The Buckle Slide—to more sophisticated styles—like The Slide Sandal, The T-Strap Sandal or The Summer Sandal—these summer sandals are easy to wear and come in a variety of fun colors. Their lightweight material offers ample support for all-day wear, and each design can seamlessly transition from a beach day to a casual dinner or lounging by the pool. Rothy’s sandals are perfect for travel as they won’t take up much space in your luggage. They are built to last even after plenty of wear.
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Breathable Flats: Ultimate comfort meets beach-friendly style. Our women’s flats are incredibly versatile and come in so many options and designs, including breathable mesh fabrics. Knit with Rothy’s signature thread—which is made from recycled plastic bottles!—these shoes are lightweight, breathable and totally packable, making them a great addition to your beach vacation. Wear a pair of mesh Mary Jane flats on your flight for easy comfort. Or throw a pair of mesh slingbacks in your carry-on if you want a dressy option for dinners by the water. The mesh Espadrille Mary Jane is a great shoe to pack for your beach trip as well, as it pairs well with almost any outfit—from dresses to shorts—making them a top choice for resort getaways and days exploring seaside towns. Our Cruiser Mary Janes and Cruiser Loafers also make great shoes for your summer getaways. These chic travel shoes strike the perfect blend of comfort and style, and are perfect for both casual days and elevated, coastal looks.
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Sneakers: If you need something that can handle both casual and active wear, Rothy’s sneakers are just right for the task. Sleek design and cushioned comfort are what works best in a shoe for summer travel, and its comfortable structure is ideal for exploring nearby boardwalks or shopping. Available in a range of colors and styles, Rothy’s women’s sneakers can be easily paired with shorts, casual dresses or even a skirt for a more elevated look. Plus, they’re machine washable, so you won’t have to worry about getting them dirty during your adventures. Whether you want a pair of slip on sneakers or classic lace up sneakers, discover the best stylish walking shoes for your summer travel.
Best Men’s Shoes for Beach Vacations
- Sandals or Flip Flops: Simple, stylish, and ultra-comfortable, men’s sandals or flip flops are perfect for laid-back days by the pool or a day at the beach. Easy to wear and made with flexible material that feels light on your feet, our men’s sandals are designed to last for a long time. Plus, they’re machine washable so there’s no need to worry about getting them sandy. Just toss them in your bag before your trip and then easily slip them on once you’re ready for a casual sandal to wear around your vacay.
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Sneakers: Just like the women’s version, our men’s sneakers are a fantastic all-around travel shoe option that you’ll want to pack for your summer beach vacation. With a comfortable fit and a classic sport style, they’re perfect for both strolling around the marina and lounging at your resort. All of our men’s sneaker styles—from fan-favorite RSO1 to the new Court Sneaker—feature the same signature knit material as our women’s version, which offers breathability, support, and durability, all essential for a beach getaway. Wear these while you're at the boardwalk or slip them on when going out to a casual dinner—these sneakers will support your feet every step of the way.
- Loafers: A loafer is the perfect summer travel shoe for men who want something that can go from day to night without missing a beat. Rothy’s men’s loafers combine the classic sophistication of a loafer with modern comfort and innovative knit technology. These shoes are perfect for more polished beach outfits—think dinner at a resort, polished linen nights or seaside drinks. They're breathable, comfortable, and easy to slip on and off, making them ideal for air travel as well.
How Many Pairs of Shoes to Pack for a Summer Beach Trip
When it comes to packing for a beach trip, the number of shoes you bring depends on the activities you have planned. Family vacations may entail more walking and exploring, while relaxing couples’ beach getaways might lean more leisurely. In general, packing three pairs of shoes should cover most scenarios:
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Beach Day Sandals: The most essential shoe on your beach vacation packing list should be a sturdy sandal that can handle sand and hot summer days. Choose summer sandals that are easy to slip on and off, and are easy to clean after your day by the shore.
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Casual or Exploring Shoes: These will be the shoes you wear while exploring your destination, whether it be exploring beachside shops or strolling the shore. Sneakers are great options for your coastal getaway, whether you’re styling them with dresses, shorts or swimsuit cover ups. They are also great shoes to wear in transit to your destination, at the airport or on a road trip.
- Dressy or Resort Shoes: For resort evenings, dinners by the water, or occasions that require a slightly more polished look, pack a pair of stylish loafers or flats that pair well with breezy summer outfits.
Why Rothy’s Are the Best Travel Shoes for Beach Getaways
Rothy’s has revolutionized the summer travel footwear game. Here’s why they’re the best option for your beach adventures:
- Comfort: Our travel shoes are designed with comfort in mind. Their unique knit material offers breathability and support, ensuring your feet stay comfortable in hot and humid beachside environments. The insoles are soft and supportive, while the outsoles offer just the right amount of cushioning and grip, whether you’re walking on pavement or sand.
- Sustainability: Made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, so you can feel good about your shoes knowing that you’re supporting a mission dedicated to sustainability.
- Packability: Rothy’s shoes are lightweight and flexible, so they’re easy to pack. Whether you’re squeezing them into a small suitcase or a carry-on bag, they’ll keep their shape and be ready for action as soon as you arrive.
- Machine Washable: No need to worry about sand or stains. Simply throw your shoes in the wash and they’ll come out looking good as new.
- Style: With a variety of colors and designs to choose from, Rothy’s shoes are the perfect blend of function and fashion, making them ideal for any beach outfit.
The Final Word: Packing the Best Shoes for a Beach Vacation
When planning for your summer beach vacation, the right shoes can make all the difference. From comfort and versatility to style and packability, we offer a wide range of summer travel shoes and bags for both men and women that check all the boxes. Whether you’re heading to the Florida beaches or spending your coastal getaway in Montauk, Rothy’s shoes provide the perfect balance of function and fashion, ensuring you have a comfortable and stylish journey wherever you go.
