8 Best Vacation Sandals of 2026

These fashion-forward flatforms deliver a punch of style without sacrificing all-day wearability. The criss-cross vegan leather straps offer both structure and breathability, while the 1.25-inch flatform sole gives a subtle lift that enhances leg lines—perfect for travelers who want to look polished with zero effort. Designed for the style-savvy woman, they solve the common vacation sandal dilemma: how to stay chic on cobblestone streets without sore feet.

In real-world testing, the flat, stable sole handled pavement, boardwalks, and beach paths with surprising ease—though deep sand did cause slight sinking due to the platform’s width. The true-to-size fit and adjustable ankle buckle ensured a secure feel during long strolls, and the man-made material wiped clean with a damp cloth, ideal for sandy toes or unexpected spills. That said, the rigid strap edges can rub during extended walking, especially on bare skin, and the sole offers minimal cushioning—fine for fashion-focused outings, less so for marathon wear.

Compared to more performance-driven sandals like the UBFEN hiking pair, the Soda CHESTER leans heavily into style over substance, making it best for city breaks or resort days where aesthetics matter most. It’s a clear step up from basic flip-flops in both durability and design, but not a replacement for supportive footwear on active trips. For the fashion-conscious traveler who prioritizes look-at-me appeal over rugged utility, these deliver solid value—especially when style is the main event, not foot therapy.

Step into vacation elegance with these raffia-woven espadrilles that blend artisanal charm with modern comfort. The intricate jute braiding and woven edge sole elevate these beyond basic slides, offering a dressy resort aesthetic that transitions seamlessly from beach cover-up to dinner under the stars. For travelers chasing that effortlessly chic Mediterranean vibe, these sandals solve the style gap between flip-flops and heels—delivering sophistication without sacrificing breathability.

During real-world wear, the soft PU leather insole proved surprisingly forgiving on hard surfaces, absorbing impact on cobblestone streets and pool decks alike. The flat, textured sole offered reliable non-slip traction on wet tiles and damp decks, while the wide band design stayed secure without pinching—ideal for slipping on after a swim. However, the natural fibers, while beautiful, showed scuff marks after just a few days on gritty terrain, and the lack of adjustability meant they weren’t ideal for narrow feet or high-arched wearers seeking a locked-in fit.

When stacked against the Monrovia raffia slides, the Tscoyuki model feels more refined and dress-ready, with better heel coverage and a more polished sole finish. It’s not built for hiking or long urban treks, but for the traveler who wants resort-ready polish with barefoot-friendly breathability, these shine. They offer a higher-end look than budget raffia styles, making them a smart choice when style and light-duty comfort are the top priorities.

This is the gold standard of vacation sandals—where luxurious materials meet all-day wearability in one impeccably balanced package. Crafted from 100% genuine full-grain leather, the Project Cloud Venita sandals develop a rich patina over time, aging beautifully with use. The natural cork footbed molds subtly to your arches, delivering personalized support that makes walking miles feel effortless—perfect for travelers who refuse to choose between style and foot health.

In testing, the adjustable dual straps allowed for a custom fit across different foot widths, staying secure even on uneven terrain. The EVA outsole provided excellent grip on both tile and stone, resisting wear after days of urban exploration and beach hopping. The open-toe design kept feet cool in 90°F heat, while the leather upper resisted stretching and odor buildup—unlike synthetic alternatives. The only hiccup? The leather needs a short break-in period, and the sole, while durable, lacks deep tread for slick or muddy trails.

Compared to the Reef Cushion Vista Hi, this sandal trades chunky outsoles for refined simplicity, making it better suited for cultural sightseeing than rugged beachcombing. It’s less sporty than the UBFEN hiking model but far more supportive than flat fashion slides. For the discerning traveler who values long-term durability, arch-friendly design, and timeless leather elegance, this is the best overall choice—offering a level of craftsmanship and comfort that punches well above its price point.

Built for adventure-first travelers, these UBFEN sport sandals are the rugged workhorses of the vacation sandal world—designed to conquer trails, river crossings, and rocky coastlines without flinching. The hook-and-loop adjustable straps lock your foot in place, while the rubber outsole with deep lug pattern delivers tenacious grip on wet rocks and slippery docks—making them ideal for active vacations where terrain changes by the hour.

Real-world testing across beach hikes, campgrounds, and urban walks confirmed their all-terrain reliability. The lightweight EVA insole provided cushioning over long distances, and the breathable upper dried quickly after water exposure—perfect for kayaking or wading. The gray mint color masked dirt well, and the simple design paired surprisingly well with casual wear. However, the thick straps, while supportive, chafed slightly during the first few wears, and the utilitarian look doesn’t transition well to dinner or dressier settings.

When compared to the Project Cloud leather sandals, the UBFEN model sacrifices elegance for raw functionality—but that’s the point. It’s not trying to be a resort slide; it’s built for multi-day treks and outdoor excursions where foot security matters most. For travelers heading to national parks, tropical islands with rugged shores, or backpacking trips, these offer superior protection and adaptability—making them the best choice when performance trumps polish.

These breezy raffia slides are the epitome of summer ease, blending on-trend height with surprisingly plush comfort for a flat sandal. The 1.37-inch raffia-wrapped platform adds a leg-lengthening lift without the wobble, while the padded footbed makes them a joy to walk in—perfect for travelers who want a little height but hate sacrificing comfort. For those chasing that effortless coastal grandmother aesthetic, these deliver vacation vibes on demand.

In practice, the slip-on design made them ideal for quick changes—think beach to café in seconds—while the soft linings prevented heel rub, even after hours of wear. The natural straw upper stayed cool in the sun and paired beautifully with flowy dresses and linen pants alike. However, the platform, while stylish, collected sand and grit in its weave, requiring frequent brushing, and the sole offered minimal shock absorption on hard city streets—fine for short walks, less so for full-day exploration.

Compared to the Tscoyuki raffia sandals, the Monrovia model feels more fashion-forward and platform-driven, with a bolder silhouette and softer cushioning. It’s not as refined for formal settings, but it’s more Instagram-ready and easier to slip on/off. For travelers who want style, comfort, and a dash of drama, these are a standout choice—offering better cushioning than most raffia styles while staying true to summer’s laid-back spirit.

The Reef Cushion Vista Hi is the ultimate hybrid sandal, engineered to transition from surf to street with confidence and comfort. Its chunky 1.75-inch EVA platform provides excellent lift and shock absorption, while the wide footbed with deep heel cup and arch support cradles your foot like a favorite pair of sneakers—ideal for travelers who demand real support without resorting to clunky hiking sandals.

In real-world use, the soft vegan leather upper stayed comfortable even when wet, and the lugged EVA outsole gripped everything from slick pool decks to gravel trails. The cushioned footbed absorbed impact during long city walks, and the wider fit accommodated high arches and wider feet beautifully. That said, the thick sole collects sand in its treads and takes time to dry, and the bulky silhouette doesn’t pair well with slim-cut dresses or heels.

When compared to the Project Cloud leather sandals, the Reef model leans more sporty and supportive, trading premium materials for high-rebound cushioning and traction. It’s less refined for formal settings but far better for active days involving water, walking, or uneven ground. For travelers who need a do-it-all sandal that handles beach days, urban sightseeing, and spontaneous hikes, this is the best beach-to-street performer—offering superior cushion and stability in a single, durable package.

Don’t let the budget-friendly price fool you—these square-toe slides pack a serious punch in the style and simplicity department. The modern square toe design gives them a contemporary edge over traditional flip-flops, while the soft vegan leather straps glide smoothly between the toes, eliminating the painful rub that plagues so many cheap models. For travelers who want trendy, no-fuss footwear without breaking the bank, these are a steal.

In testing, the lightweight EVA sole made them easy to pack and comfortable for short walks, poolside lounging, or beach runs. The non-slip outsole held up well on wet tiles, and the padded sponge insole added a touch of cushioning missing in most budget flips. However, the slim fit can squeeze wider feet, and the flat sole offers zero arch support—fine for quick errands, not ideal for full-day wear. They also show wear faster than pricier models, with scuffing visible after a week of heavy use.

Compared to the KuaiLu orthotic slides, these SKETOE sandals are more fashion-focused and less supportive, making them better for style than long-term comfort. But for the cost-conscious traveler who needs a packable, trendy pair for beach days or as a backup, they deliver exceptional value—offering clean design and decent durability at a price that won’t hurt your wallet.

These cloud-walking thongs are engineered for maximum foot relief, featuring a thick memory foam footbed inspired by yoga mats—making them the most supportive flip-flop in the lineup. The orthotic-grade arch support actively reduces foot fatigue and helps combat issues like plantar fasciitis, a rare feature at any price point. For travelers with foot pain or those logging miles on hard surfaces, these are a game-changer.

Real-world use confirmed their exceptional cushioning, with the high-elastic sponge insole absorbing shock on concrete and tile with ease. The non-slip rubber sole with deep treads provided confidence on wet bathroom floors and pool decks, and the soft cloth strap minimized toe irritation. However, the thick footbed makes them less packable than slimmer models, and the minimalist design lacks the style versatility of strappy sandals—best for low-key outings, not fashion-forward moments.

When compared to the SKETOE square-toe flips, the KuaiLu model trades trendy looks for serious biomechanical support, making it the clear winner for comfort. It’s not as rugged as the UBFEN hiking sandals, but for daily wear, recovery days, or long airport walks, it outperforms nearly every other flat sandal. For travelers who prioritize foot health and cushioning, these offer unmatched support at a shockingly low price—proving that budget doesn’t have to mean bare-minimum comfort.