Sorry, pumps – we love you, but you were not made for prancing through the sand! Beach weddings call for a whole new type of shoe. One that is chic, comfortable, and sand-ready!
We love a good barefoot wedding, but there are actually a lot of footwear options suitable for the beach. As with traditional locales, you’ll still want to think about whether you can comfortably walk and dance in the shoe, and if its style fits your overall look. Plus, there are a few additional considerations when it comes to selecting kicks for a seaside wedding.
We’ll dive into all this and more, plus introduce you to a few of our fav nuptial footwear options for the sun and sand!
Table Of Contents
- Beach Wedding Shoes Buying Considerations
- Types of Beach Wedding Shoes To Consider
- Barefoot Sandals for Beach Brides
- Alternative Beach Wedding Footwear
- Beach Wedding Shoes FAQ
Beach Wedding Shoes Buying Considerations
Knowing what to look for in beach wedding shoes can be tricky. Unlike when you’re indoors, you will need to plan for a variety of changing weather conditions.
- If your ceremony is on the beach, look for something sand-friendly (i.e. flat shoes or chunky/block heels).
- At the beach, there’s sand, sun, and…water! Beware of the potential to get wet.
- Think about your hemline. If you can see the shoes, make sure they match the aesthetic of your overall “look”.
- Speaking of the hemline, make sure the height of the shoe coordinates with your dress. If it’s breezy or the sand isn’t smooth, you don’t want to be tripping over your dress!
- We’re all for barefoot or barely-there sandals, but a word of caution. Depending on the time of day and season, the sand can either be blazing hot or downright chilly.Though aesthetics are important, keep comfort in mind too!
Types of Beach Wedding Shoes To Consider
- Barefoot Sandals. You can go au naturel (with your feet, that is) or opt for a barefoot sandal. Essentially jewelry for your feet, these delicate strands give the illusion of gorgeous footwear while only looping around your ankles and toes. They don’t have a sole.
- Flats or Flat Sandals. Flats or flat sandals are excellent because their lack of a heel makes them very stable. We recommend steering clear of department store flip flops though, and choosing something a bit more elegant.
- Wedges or Espadrilles. Wedges have a heel, but they are flat on the bottom and solid through the sole – meaning you won’t poke down into the sand. Espadrilles can be heeled or flat and are characterized by their rope braided sole. The upper fabric of either shoe is available in a variety of designs.
- Stack Heels and Low Heels. Low heels or stack heels – a chunkier version of a standard heel – can offer a beach bride the height she craves while still evenly spreading the weight to prevent sinking in the sand.
- Sneakers or Other Comfortable Alternatives. Hey, it’s your wedding day! The relaxed atmosphere of a seaside wedding is the perfect occasion to break out of the box with your footwear. Consider opting for sneakers, Mary Janes, or maybe even your Teva’s.
Barefoot Sandals for Beach Brides
1. Wedding Rhinestone Barefoot Sandals
by Etsy: Kimsically
These customizable rhinestone barefoot sandals will make you feel like an ocean goddess.
The intricate rhinestone pattern in front can be set in either rose gold, silver, black, or yellow gold. The comfortable tie in the back is available in so many color options it will be hard to pick a favorite!
2. Crochet Barefoot Sandals
by Etsy: barmine
Looking for a little less bling and more boho vibes?
These crochet sandals are absolutely perfect, and crazy comfortable too. You select the primary color for both the detailed design in front and the adorable lace-up-the-calf ties.
3. Starfish Barefoot Beaded Sandals
by Etsy: FancyFeetsTeam
It really doesn’t get any “beachier” than these starfish sandals.
Pearl accents sit alongside rhinestone encrusted starfish for the epitome of a seaside wedding. The pearls can be white or a handful of other lovely colors.
4. Journey Barefoot Sandals
Dainty and elegant, you’ll want to lift your hem and flash these beauties.
Crafted from layered gold chains, teardrop pearls, and tiny crystal circles, these barefoot sandals add a touch of sparkle and charm while allowing you to feel your soles and toes in the sand.
Flats & Flat Sandals for Beach Brides
5. Tahiti Bridal Leather Sandals
by Etsy: Goupi
Bohemian and exotic, it’s hard to envision these sandals anywhere other than an enchanting destination wedding.
Greek leather, crochet, and jeweled adornments all come together to form one truly unique sandal. The best part is that they’re ridiculously comfortable too. You can wear them during the honeymoon and beyond!
6. White Lace Wedding Sandals
by ZhuLinFeng
Breezy and beautiful, these simple sandals are really something.
White lace is an obvious bridal choice, but it’s particularly great for the beach thanks to its breathability. Floral embellishments around the ankles elevate this sandal to wedding wear.
7. Pave Crystal Strappy Thong Slide Sandals
David’s Bridal definitely knows how to do weddings, and oceanfront nautical weddings are no exception.
These flat sandals will keep you steady on your feet as you walk down the aisle. The crisscrossing straps offer a comfortable feel to these thong sandals, while the pave crystals that cover them sparkle like the ocean waves.
8. Love Flat
by Jimmy Choo
Who knew flats could serve such a look? Jimmy Choo, obviously.
Glimmering metallic fabric, layers of tulle, a dramatic flair at the toe…it sounds like a wedding gown! This is why these chic flats would make a perfect addition to your wedding day ensemble.
9. Blue by Betsey Johnson
by Molly Flats
We love these vintage-inspired flats for many reasons.
The first is their dazzling bejeweled pattern that gives off major Old Hollywood glamour. Secondly, the heel isn’t enclosed, going for a simple strappy look instead. Finally, they come in three colors, including a striking navy just in case you’re still looking for your “something blue”.
10. Loeffler Randall Daphne Pleated Bow Slides
by Shopbop
Looking for some unique beach wedding sandals?
These lovely pleated bow slides fit the bill. Incandescent fabric and a low heel make for a relaxed but chic shoe that will carry you through the I do’s and the reception, too.
11. Cove Flat Sandals
These Greek goddess sandals would look stunning with an ethereal wedding dress.
Their simple braided style can be dressed up or dressed down and will feel like the next best thing to going totally barefoot. Plus, they can totally be worn over and over again with a variety of outfits after the big day.
12. Alaia Laser-Cut Leather Slides
by Net-a-Porter
Effortless to style, these laser-cut slides will work with a range of wedding dresses.
Their scalloped leather detailing is Parisian-inspired, giving them an air of sophistication. The low-cut heel is perfect for navigating a sandy wedding venue.
13. Lace-Up Wedding Sandals
by Etsy: magosisters
These lace-up wedding sandals bring the touch of drama and interest that you’ve been looking for.
Their leather and lace straps may seem typical bridal-faire at first, but the pearl and jewel adornments bring them over the top. The fact that they lace up your calves like gladiator sandals will have you feeling like a warrior princess on your wedding day!
Wedges & Espadrilles for Beach Brides
14. Aleena 50 Wedge
Low wedges are wonderful for when you want a touch of height without giving up stability.
Sturdy cork soles stand at 50-mm, meaning they’re a breeze to wear. The white straps and square toe add a hint of refinement, keeping the shoe bridal.
15. Bahia Ivory Bridal Espadrilles
by Etsy: TopknotTiaras
Are these boho, casual, chic? We think they’re just downright cute!
The tiniest of heels can be seen behind the classic espadrilles rope wrapping. On top, a lace band an adjustable heel strap offer you the security you desire when walking down the aisle.
16. Marguerita Espadrille Wedge
The heel may not be sky-high, but that doesn’t mean these wedges don’t pack a punch.
The chunky espadrille sole is complemented by the breezy ankle ribbons. We adore the closed-toe that will protect your tootsies from the sand and allow you to go sans-pedicure if you so desire.
17. Aerosoles Willowbrook Wedge
by DSW
Just because it’s your wedding day doesn’t mean you can’t be comfortable!
Comfort and chic style meet in these fashionable wedge sandals. Elegant leather toe and heel straps – in white, of course – are paired with a memory foam sole. You’ll be saying “I ahhhh” instead of “I do”!
18. Medina Raffia Wedge
by Andre Assous
These espadrilles are one-hundred percent nautical.
The traditional rope-woven base is taken to the next level, forming not only the sole but the toe and ankle straps as well. The natural tone and feel of this shoe make it an excellent pick for any outdoor wedding.
19. Blakely Rhinestone Wedge
It can be difficult to find a beach-friendly shoe that matches the grandeur and magnificence of your dress. But we think these wedges will do the trick!
They’re all sophistication and not an ounce beach bum with their intricate rhinestone embellishments. Dainty straps and a breathtaking open heel make for one classy wedge.
Stack Heels & Lower Heels for Beach Brides
20. Loeffler Randall Camellia Heels
by BHLDN
Sometimes, a girl just has to have her heels. We get it!
These chunky heels will play nice with the sand. Voluptuous crinkled taffeta encases the heel and sole, ending in a statement-making bow at the toes.
21. Amelia Floral Lace Ivory Kitten Heels
by Bella Belle
Kitten heels have such a wonderful vintage vibe to them.
We’re particularly smitten with how these old-school heels have a touch of modernity with their illusion mesh upper, lace accents, and cross ankle heel straps.
22. NearlyNude Mid Heel
Simple and stunning – all a girl could ever need in a beach wedding shoe.
These classic block heels are crafted from smooth nude leather. A tiny ankle strap and a minimalist toe strap complete the elegant look.
23. Cult Gaia Kitten Heel Pumps
Cinderella? Is that you?
Kitten heels made from clear PVC-vinyl dotted with pearls will have all heads turning. It’s like a romantic beach version of a glass slipper.
24. Intentionally Blank Willow Heels
by BHLDN
Contemporary and chic, these heels are a great option for the modern bride.
Every element of this shoe has been thoughtfully crafted to maintain the overall minimalist feel. A square heel and toe, tubular interwoven straps, and a natural/nude color… it’s perfect!
25. Neptune Strappy
by Nordstrom
If you plan on having a walkway down the beach aisle, these strappy sandals are an excellent option.
Their small heel will still provide you stability while also looking quite glamorous. We love the satin fabric that positively shimmers over the tiered criss-cross straps.
26. Sailor Sandal
Can’t get away with being completely barefoot? These are designed for the girl who wants as little shoe as possible.
Positively dainty straps are so delicate you won’t even know they’re there. They wrap around the ankle and finish in a cute feminine bow complete with tassels.
27. Ganice Mesh Strap Sandal
by Nordstrom
Take their breath away with an eye-popping shoe choice like these mesh strap sandals.
Dramatic navy colors the blocky base and the thick illusion mesh straps. Whether you need your “something blue” or just want something unique, these shoes will make your dreams come true.
Alternative Beach Wedding Footwear
28. Two-Strap Crystal Footbed Slide
They’re laidback, on-trend, and super comfy. You do you on your wedding day!
The traditional two-strap sandal gets a makeover with an abundance of crystal. The silver footbed keeps the glamour coming.
29. Triple CVO Platform
by Ked’s
We’re all about the fun femininity of these lacey Ked’s.
They’re playful while also being bridal thanks to their triple-stacked platform base and cute floral lace upper. Wear them on your wedding day and then every day after that!
30. Ivory Lace
by TOMS
Tom’s are such a great beach shoe – they’re light, breathable, and easy to walk in.
Now, with an ivory lace design, Tom’s can be a great wedding shoe too. Slightly see-through and adorned with a floral pattern, you won’t need to slip off these slip-on’s when it comes time to dance the night away.
31. Jack Purcell Leather
by Converse
Heck yes, Converse shoes can be wedding attire!
In either white or black, these chic tennies will equip you to walk down the aisle then bust a move on the dance floor. Perfect for the punk/rocker-chic bride who also happens to love the beach.
32. Antique Lace
by Birkenstocks
Birkenstocks are classic sandals. While they may not be a standard wedding shoe, we’d argue that this antique lace pair would look right at home under a dress.
A contoured cork footbed, premium leather in a lovely ivory color, and an over-the-toe criss-cross add just enough flair to your favorite footwear.
33. Tasseled Ankle Cuff
by Etsy: FULYAK
The epitome of barefoot is well, completely barefoot.
This isn’t even a shoe at all but we had to put it in because it’s so perfect for the beach. These tasseled bohemian ankle cuffs can be paired with temporary tattoos to give the illusion of footwear. Or not! With delicate beading and patterned embellishments, they look stunning just as they are.
Beach Wedding Shoes FAQ
Can I wear heels in the sand?
Traditional heels don’t work very well in the sand. All the pressure focused on one point will cause you to sink and/or get stuck. Chunky heels or low heels may be alright but are better suited to a walkway laid down over the sand.
Can I wear sandals as a bride?
Of course! There are so many sandal options out there these days. From elegant to boho, there are lots of options besides your old flip-flops or Nike slides.
Can I wear Birkenstocks to my wedding?
You can! It is your wedding day after all. In fact, we have a lovely pair on this list. As long as they match the overall aesthetic of your wedding ensemble and you feel great in them, Birkenstocks are definitely suitable bridal shoes.
Can I be barefoot at my beach wedding?
Again, most definitely! Many brides are going barefoot these days at their beach weddings. It’s fun, playful, and usually pretty darn comfortable. If you want to be barefoot but still desire a little something extra, consider barefoot sandals or ankle cuffs.
Bring On the Sand, Sun, and Your “Only One”
When you are getting married on the beach, you can say “I do” in a strappy sandal shoe, a chunky wedge, or no shoes at all. Seaside nuptials allow you to be a little less traditional with your shoe choice, but there are still so many wonderful designs out there!
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Megan Moore
Megan’s wedding experience began over a decade ago when planning her dream ceremony. Since then, three kids have been added to the mix. Megan wholeheartedly embraces all things baby, childhood, and family. When she isn’t writing or chasing little ones you can find her running, hiking, or reading.
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