35 Shoes for a Sandy Beach Wedding, From Bridal Styles to Men's Footwear

Check out our top picks for brides, grooms and guests.
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by
Sofia Deeb
sofia deeb headshot
Sofia Deeb
Assistant Fashion Commerce Editor
  • Sofia writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide with a specialty in fashion and e-commerce.
  • Prior to The Knot Worldwide, Sofia was a writer for Santa Barbara Life and Style Magazine.
  • Sofia studied cultural anthropology and journalism at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Updated Apr 29, 2024
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Finding the perfect wedding shoes is no day at the beach. While trying to strike a balance between style and all-day comfort, it can feel like your options are limited. The search for beach wedding shoes can be particularly daunting, especially when you consider that you won't be walking on a smooth, even surface. Thankfully, you don't have to bury your head in the sand where logistics are involved. Whether you're planning your own ceremony by the sea or attending one as a guest, there are plenty of shoes for beach weddings that will keep you comfortable without sacrificing fashion.

Ahead of wedding season, we've rounded up the best beach wedding footwear for brides, grooms and guests who are heading to the shore. Keep reading to discover 35 of our top picks for every budget and vibe. Then, head over to our complete guide to beach wedding attire to finish planning your ensemble.

In this article:

Beach Wedding Shoes for Brides

Bridal stylist Maradee Wahl explains that, "many brides love the idea of a barefoot wedding right on the sand," but that doesn't mean you can forgo shoes altogether. It's important to have a functional pair of beach bridal footwear to get you to and from the venue, as well as for the reception. Wahl recommends opting for wedges instead of traditional pumps as, "they offer more support when you're standing on a sandy beach." Other comfortable wedding shoes—like block heels, sandals and flats—all make excellent options as well. Basically, steer clear of anything with a thin heel that can easily sink into the sand.

If you're a bride-to-be who only owns stilettos, it's not too late to turn the tide. Shop 10 of the best shoes for beach weddings below—all of which are sure to pair perfectly with your beach wedding dress.

Reformation Alexia Espadrille Sandal

White strappy espadrille wedges
Photo: Reformation

These strappy ivory espadrille wedges are sure to take your look to the next level (quite literally). Because they feature a small platform, they're an ideal option for prioritizing comfort without sacrificing on style.

Lulus Aribaa White Lace-Up High Heel Sandals

Strappy lace-up block heel sandals in white
Photo: Lulus

Between being cute, comfortable and casual, this pair of strappy block heel wedding shoes checks all our boxes—its price tag is just the icing on the cake. Because they can easily be dressed up or down, we can bet you'll reach for them long after the wedding.

Loeffler Randall Dahlia Pearl Pleated Bow Heel

Pleated low block bridal shoes with bow
Photo: Loeffler Randall

For nuptials on the sand, an open toe is the way to go. Between its pleated detailing and signature bow, this pair strikes a perfect balance between beachy and bridal. Plus, its sturdy block heel will ensure you won't get stuck in the sand.

Dolce Vita River Pearl Heels

Low block bridal heels with pearl-embellished straps
Photo: Dolce Vita

Did somebody say pearlcore? In case you haven't been keeping tabs, pearls are the latest trend sweeping the internet. Luckily, they also lend themselves nicely to bridal attire. This trendy pair of sandals features pearl-adorned straps and a sturdy block heel.

Reformation Peridot Mignon Knot Flat Sandal

White strappy flat wedding sandals
Photo: Reformation

Cute and casual—what's not to love about these simple white beach wedding sandals? With a cushioned sole and subtle heel, they're guaranteed to keep you comfortable from the sea shore to the dance floor.

Jimmy Choo Bing 120mm Wedge Sandals

White wedding wedges with embellished straps
Photo: Farfetch

A ceremony on the sand doesn't mean you have to forgo heels (or bridal glam). With a comfortable wedge heel, secure ankle strap and eye-catching crystal embellishments, this luxury pair is as functional as it is elegant.

Lulus Hershie White Satin Pearl Pointed-Toe Mule Slides

White pointed-toe flat mules with pearl strap
Photo: Lulus

When it comes to walking on the beach, flats are always a safe bet. These open-back bridal shoes have the cutest pearl-embellished straps and elegant pointed toes. Plus, at that price, sand and water damage is way less scary.

Vince Camuto Pendreya Platform Sandal

White satin platform heel with blue insole
Photo: Vince Camuto

Want a little height but crave stability? These gorgeous beach wedding heels have a thick platform and cute ankle straps for extra security. Plus, the light blue insole has 'bridal' written all over it.

Reformation Maya Flat Sandal

Strappy flat sandals with bow detail
Photo: Reformation

If you're looking for a pair of beach bridal shoes to take you from your wedding day to everyday errands, you can't go wrong with these sweet and strappy bow sandals. Their minimalist design means they'll match with everything, and we can guarantee they'll quickly make their way into your wardrobe rotation after the big day.

Castaner Carina Wedge Espadrilles

Ivory lace-up espadrille wedges
Photo: Shopbop

A woven heel made from natural fibers gives this pair of espadrilles a distinctive summer look. Pair them with a boho maxi gown and you've got yourself a wedding-ready look.

Beach Wedding Shoes for Bridesmaids

When it comes to bridesmaid attire for beach weddings, function is just as important as style. We recommend opting for comfortable sandals or block heels in neutral tones that won't distract from the group ensemble or setting.

Lulus Fallyn Naked Mules

Low block heels in different shades of nude
Photo: Lulus

If you're keen on the idea of going barefoot but not on having sandy feet, nude-colored shoes are the way to go. These simple sandals offer a 'barely-there' look that'll create uniformity amongst the bridesmaids.

Nisolo Stella Go-To Block Heel Sandal

Nude ankle-strap beach wedding guest heels
Photo: Nisolo

A neutral-tone shoe goes with everything, so these nude heeled sandals are a great choice no matter what color dresses your bridesmaids will be wearing. We love that they're dressy enough for the altar but comfortable enough for everyday wear.

Sam Edelman April Platform Sandals

Raffia wedge heels with gold buckle ankle strap
Photo: Zappos

Whoever said beauty is pain clearly never saw these platforms. With all the comfort of a sandal in a style that adds quite a bit of height, they're the best of both worlds. Plus, their natural look will pair seamlessly with the outdoor setting.

Azazie Casual Ankle Strap Sandals

Strappy black block-heel sandals
Photo: Azazie

If black shoes are the vibe, you can't go wrong with these strappy block heels from Azazie. The ankle strap keeps things extra secure, and they're affordable too. (Bonus: They also come in White, Gold and Nude.)

Tuckernuck Shoes Gold Raffia Blake Heels

Gold raffia block-heel slides with knot
Photo: Tuckernuck

*Tie* together your bridesmaids' looks with a bow. Not only are these gold raffia block heels functional for a beach wedding, but they're also oh-so stylish.

Beach Wedding Guest Shoes for Women

Wondering if you should wear shoes to a beach wedding? For guests, the short answer: It depends. It's not uncommon to forego shoes for a wedding on the beach, but you certainly wouldn't want to do so without the couple's approval. Look for info regarding footwear in the dress code. If it's not explicitly outlined, our best advice would be to go with the flow (no pun intended). Plan on arriving with shoes, and if the couple and wedding party are barefoot, take that as your go ahead to join. Ahead, shop five of our favorite pairs of shoes for beach wedding guests.

Lulus Biava Natural Raffia Wedge Sandals

Raffia double-strap wedges
Photo: Lulus

With woven raffia and thick, secure straps, these wedge sandals couldn't be more perfect for a beachside ceremony. At under $40, they're also a total steal considering how much you'll wear them after the event.

Seychelles Paloma Heels

Wooden block-heel wedges with black straps
Photo: Zappos

These platforms are practically begging to be worn on a tropical getaway. With a sturdy wooden heel and secure ankle strap, you can feel confident they'll hold up as you hit the dance floor. They're also available in Brown and a very fitting shade called Sand.

Reformation Millie Lattice Flat Sandal

Strappy flat gold sandals
Photo: Reformation

These beach sandals are guaranteed to glisten in the summer sun. Because they're flat and feature a comfortable cushioned sole, you won't have to worry about changing shoes between the ceremony and the reception.

Larroudé Brigitte Mule

Short block heel slide sandals with white flowers
Photo: Larroudé

Sand-colored linen, floral details and a comfy block heel make these adorable mules a no-brainer for beach weddings. Plus, they're guaranteed to make it into your regular shoe rotation post-wedding.

Madewell The Kimmy Wedge Sandal

Nude double-strap wedges
Photo: Madewell

If you want to keep things simple, these sleek nude wedges will fit the bill. The dainty straps and low heel make them extra comfortable, and they'll pair well with pretty much any wedding guest look.

Beach Wedding Shoes for Grooms

While going barefoot is an option in the sand, grooms should still have a nice pair of shoes on hand for other parts of the day. Since they're flat, regular dress shoes will do the trick, however, you could also embrace the setting and opt for a pair of shoes that was made for the beach, like boat shoes or huaraches. The decision should be based largely on the dress code of the event. Ahead, shop the best men's shoes for beach weddings and complete your wedding day look.

Rothy's The Ravello Loafer

Lightweight beige loafers
Photo: Rothy's

As our go-to choice for warm-weather nuptials, this pair of loafers will not only look great on the sand, but can actually help protect ocean ecosystems too. Made from recycled plastic bottles, they're durable, water resistant and machine washable. Plus, they come in a variety of colors.

Nisolo Men's Huarache Sandal

Men's brown leather Huarache sandals
Photo: Nisolo

You won't have to worry about sand in your shoes when you step down the aisle in these stylish huaraches. Their lightweight and breathable woven design makes them ideal for sandy terrains. Pair them with a linen suit for a casual summer wedding look.

Scarosso Andrea Nero Loafers

Woven leather men's loafers
Photo: Scarosso

Woven loafers and a seersucker suit? Name a more iconic duo—we'll wait. Made from leather and handcrafted in Italy, these men's beach dress shoes have 'destination wedding' written all over them.

Red Wing Heritage Weekender Chukka Boot

Lace-up beach wedding shoes for the groom
Photo: Huckberry

Go ahead, get your feet wet. These leather lace-ups were made to last. Because they're water, stain and perspiration resistant, they're perfect for a day on the beach. Plus, they'll make an ideal everyday shoe option after the wedding.

Kurt Geiger Henri Woven Tassel Loafer

Woven raffia loafers with tassels
Photo: Nordstrom

Beaded tassels and contrasting woven raffia make these loafers an instant standout. Made in Portugal with genuine leather, this beachy men's footwear is the key to achieving an effortless coastal aesthetic.

Beach Wedding Shoes for Groomsmen

Playing a special part in a seaside ceremony and not sure what shoes to wear? Dip your toes into the world of men's beach wedding shoes by checking out these five styles.

Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoe

Beach wedding boat shoes
Photo: Zappos

Lean into the nautical vibes with a pair of classic boat shoes. For a casual dress code, you can't go wrong by pairing them with cuffed chinos and a linen button-up. We love that this option is gender neutral and available in a variety of colors.

Donald Pliner EMMETT Loafer

Raffia men's loafers
Photo: Donalid Pliner

Everything about these loafers screams 'summer,' and we're not just talking about their sandy color. Made from raffia and leather, these beach formal shoes are sure to keep you comfortable throughout your day spent on the sand.

Peter Millar Coastal Perforated Slip-On

Navy perforated slip-on sneakers
Photo: Peter Millar

With their navy shade and espadrille-inspired trim, these nautical-cool shoes are perfect for a beach groomsman look. They're also made with breathable perforated leather, so they'll keep your feet cool if the weather is warm during ceremony time.

Nisolo Alejandro Woven Slip On 2.0

Woven leather men's loafers
Photo: Nisolo

Top off your laidback look with a classic pair of slip-ons. Featuring a breathable woven design and cushioned insoles, they're sure to keep you cool and comfortable through whatever the day may bring.

Frye Men's Chris Venetian Waxed Suede Loafers

Black waxed men's loafers
Photo: Neiman Marcus

These stunning waxed leather loafers are ideal for a beach wedding, but you'll get plenty of wear out of them post-ceremony, too. Pair them with a light linen suit for some cool contrast.

Beach Wedding Guest Shoes for Men

Wondering what shoes to wear to a beach wedding as a guest? Complete your look with some of the best beach wedding footwear for men and you'll be well on your way to earning the title of 'best dressed guest.'

OluKai Lae'ahi Lauhala Woven Leather Shoe

Woven leather sneaker
Photo: Nordstrom

Picture this: these woven sneakers, a linen suit and an Aperol spritz in hand. Sounds like the perfect combination to us! If you're looking to make a statement during a beach wedding, these would have to be our pick.

Todd Snyder Suede Espadrille Mule

Tan suede espadrille slides for men
Photo: Todd Snyder

These suede espadrille slides are an effortlessly cool pick for a laidback beach wedding. Crafted in Spain with high-quality leather, they'll be a mainstay in your warm-weather wardrobe.

Toms Baja Heritage Canvas Slip On Sneaker

Grey canvas slip-on sneakers for men
Photo: Toms

For those who don't like to swim against the tide, how about something classic? Made with a textile upper and available in a variety of neutral tones, these slip-ons are an ideal option for a relaxed wedding on the sand.

Peter Millar Crown Cruise Knit Driver

Beige woven knit loafer for men
Photo: Peter Millar

Looks like loafers, feels like slippers. What could be better than that? These Peter Millar drivers are made with antimicrobial knit fabric for moisture management and superior breathability. Bonus: They're machine washable.

TAFT The Fitz Loafer

Woven jacquard floral men's loafers
Photo: TAFT

Looking for a beach wedding shoe that makes a statement? Enter these handsome loafers from TAFT. Crafted in a vibrant woven jacquard floral print and finished with oxblood Spanish calfskin, they'll add the perfect tropical touch to your look.

Kate Ferris contributed to the reporting of this article.

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