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From volcano hikes to whale watching to luaus, we’ve rounded up the best shoes for every Hawaiian activity. Find out what shoes to wear in Hawaii!
Best Shoes to Wear in Hawaii
Table Of Contents
The Hawaiian Islands are full of adventure, so comfortable and functional shoes are essential! Readers have given their recommendations for the best shoes for Hawaii vacation activities that’ll support your feet and allow you to explore the breathtaking beauty around you comfortably. Check them out!
Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii
Hawaii is home to some of the most stunning hikes, so if you plan on trekking past waterfalls, overlooking secret beaches, or climbing volcanoes, you’ll need to pack some sturdy hiking shoes – preferably ones that are water-friendly!
One reader who lives on Oahu suggests not wearing anything on a hike that you’re worried about getting dirty or muddy. Another reader who hiked in Hawaii agrees, sharing that waterfall/rainforest trails will be very wet and muddy, so don’t bring your cute fashion sneakers!
Shop: Amazon
Merrell Moab
These Merrell Moab 2 waterproof hiking shoes are a reader favorite for outdoor adventures! They’re rugged and extra-grippy on the outside, while the inside boasts a contoured footbed with arch and heel support and a protective toe cap. Readers say they’re not too heavy and love that they’re breathable, so they’re some of the best shoes for hiking in Hawaii humidity.
One traveler says they took them on a trip and hiked all over in rain, mud, and sunshine, and they were suitable for every condition and comfortable from day one!
Shop: Amazon
Merrell Blaze
Designed for hot and humid temps, the Merrell Blaze trail runners will be a dream for all of your Hawaiian hikes. Their ventilated mesh upper and odor control will keep things airy and fresh, while the glove-like fit and excellent support will keep your feet flexible yet sturdy with each step. Wearers say they’re amazingly durable and can double as water shoes!
One traveler brought them on a month-long trip to Hawaii and American Samoa and says they’re the best shoes for Hawaii hiking, perfect for treks to waterfalls and kayaking, and they saved her feet!
Shop: Amazon | Columbia | Zappos
Columbia Hatana Breathe
Made for the trails but cute enough to be worn around town, these Columbia Hatana hiking shoes are super versatile shoes for hiking in Hawaii. If ample cushioning is what you’re looking for, these shoes deliver, with a responsive foam midsole and a breathable insole that’ll keep you comfy and stable. They’re waterproof and have stellar traction and a roomy toe box, too.
One wearer wore them in the rain, during canopy tours, and ziplining, and says they feel like walking on clouds, are super lightweight, and overall spectacular!
Shop: Amazon | Zappos | Nordstrom
Keen Targhee 3
Despite the low height, readers say the Keen Targhee hiking shoes have amazing ankle support, not to mention the cushy, arch-supporting footbed that makes these a dream for long, strenuous hikes. This waterproof pair is beyond resilient, with multi-directional lugs that’ll grip any surface and a lightweight feel that’ll put a spring in your step. The breathable, anti-odor interior is another bonus!
One reader thinks these are the best waterproof hiking shoes for Hawaii and highly recommends them, sharing that they were perfect for hikes on her trip, and she even wore them on the plane because they’re that comfortable!
Shop: Amazon
Salomon Speedcross 5
Not only rugged but super stylish, these Salomon Speedcross 5 trail runners get rave reviews for their non-bulky, lightweight design and great look. They’re designed for maximum grip and are perfect for muddy conditions and mixed terrain. Soft and protective cushioning on the inside makes them all the more comfy.
A wearer says she can’t express how much she loves these shoes and shares that she did a 10-mile hike in Hawaii with lots of mud and water, and she had dry feet the entire day!
These are the most recommended hiking boots styles according to our readers!
Best Hiking Sandals for Hawaii
If you’re wondering what shoes to wear hiking in Hawaii for leisurely to medium-intensity hikes that don’t require the ample protection of hiking shoes, then hiking sandals are ideal! They’ll keep your feet nice and cool in the heat and can be worn for all kinds of other sporty activities, too.
One TFG reader notes that sandals with secure straps and good traction are needed because the trails in Hawaii can be muddy and slippery.
Keen Newport H2
Multiple readers have recommended these Keen Newport H2 hiking sandals for trips to Hawaii, sharing that they’re comfortable, well-ventilated, protective, and great on uneven terrain. The footbed has flexible cushioning and arch support, while the bungee laces offer a secure and perfectly snug fit. You can wear them in and out of the water, too, so they’re one of the best water hiking shoes for Hawaii!
A TFG reader shares that she loved wearing her Keen sandals on Hawaiian trails. She describes them as sturdy, grippy, and easy to wash if they get wet and muddy!
Shop: Amazon | Backcountry | REI
Teva Outflow
These Teva Outflow sandals are another highly recommended option for Hawaii that readers say double as water shoes and also look super cute with travel skirts, midi dresses, and linen pants! These shoes provide amazing cushioning, great protection from sharp lava rock or any rough terrain, and dry quickly. Wearers say they’re flexible, fit like a glove, and add plenty of stability.
A TFGer who recommends Tevas shares that she wore hers constantly for two weeks on a recent trip to Hawaii, at the beach, on trails and volcanic rock, and around town.
Chaco ZX/2
From laid-back hikes to beach days to strolling around town, these Chaco sandals can do it all — and they do it in style! The cute, strappy design is ultra-supportive and soft, and combined with the grippy rubber sole and non-slip footbed, slick or uneven terrain (or sweaty feet) are no problem! These TFG favorites are super cushy, too, and readers report being able to do tons of walking in them.
One TFG reader says Chaco is her go-to water and adventure shoes, they’re super easy to wash, and they look great with dresses for exploring on land.
Shop: Amazon
Merrell Sandspur Rose
While the Merrell Sandspur Rose sandals look a bit more elevated with pretty leather straps, they’re definitely built for adventure. The rubber outsole is built for the trails, and the adjustable straps will give you the perfect fit and keep your feet held in. Wearers highlight the arch support, microfiber footbed, and cute look that works with hiking gear, casual daytime outfits, and even dressier looks!
A wearer says these were the perfect sandals for her trip that entailed lots of hiking, and she says she also wore them walking around town and out to dinner!
Here are the best sandals for women that love to explore at home or abroad!
Best Water Shoes for Hawaii
Water shoes are essential for leisurely beach day activities. They’re also great for so many other outings in Hawaii, from whale watching boat rides to zip line tours! Readers also share that some beaches can be rocky, so if you want to stroll around, explore tide pools, or play some beach games, they’ll keep your feet comfy and protected.
Shop: Amazon
Skechers On-The-Go Brilliancy
Readers adore these Skechers sandals for their responsive, cushioned insole that feels simply heavenly. They have great arch support and traction, so they’ll be comfy hour after hour, whether wading through water or trekking on land. Sporty and cute, these versatile sandals will look just as great with a beach coverup as with a dress!
One traveler says these are her “must-take” travel shoes, as they’re comfortable for walking in town, out in nature, and in water, plus you can adjust the straps so they fit perfectly!
Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Teva
Teva Hurricane
The Teva Hurricane sandals are ready for any adventure, with durable construction, grippy soles, and supportive straps. They’re also amazingly comfortable, with great support and cushioning, so you can take these from the beach to a light hike! Readers love the sporty look that comes in a TON of fun colors, too.
One wearer says these are really good shoes for Hawaii, adding that they were perfect for the beach, snorkeling, hiking, and everything else, and she loves the versatility.
Shop: Amazon
Crocs LiteRide
If you want a water shoe with extra protection, these Crocs LiteRide Pacer sneakers fit the bill. Readers say they’re fantastic for trips to hot and humid destinations, as they dry quickly and are super breathable, so they’re a great shoe that you can wear in the ocean and beyond. These shoes are super lightweight yet durable, the foam insoles are a dream, and your feet will feel sturdy and supported in them!
One wearer says these are the perfect water shoes for vacation, with a cute look and great quality.
Shop: Amazon
WHITIN Barefoot
Though these WHITIN water shoes look like classic sneakers, they’re an amazing, supportive pair that’s designed for exploring the ocean. Their “barefoot” style means they adhere to the natural shape of your foot with plenty of space for your toes and have an ultra-light and flexible feel. They’re quick-drying and have great ventilation while keeping out sand, and wearers say these shoes hold up incredibly well throughout the most intense of adventures!
They’re some of the best water shoes for hiking in Hawaii, too. One happy wearer agrees, saying that she loves them for water sports, they’re super comfortable and have great grip, and she often wears them as lightweight hiking shoes.
Find out what water shoes to wear with which activities!
Best Flip Flops for Hawaii
If there’s one essential shoe for a trip to Hawaii, it’s beach flip flops! Readers say these are not only the shoes you’ll be wearing most often, but they’re what all of the locals are wearing, too — even out to dinner! Bring a pair that’s comfortable for quick strolls and can handle getting wet and sandy.
Reef Cushion Breeze
These Reef Cushion breeze sandals boast the cushiest footbed around, giving your feet the utmost comfort and support as you hit the beach or stroll around town. They have great traction, flexibility, and super soft straps. Readers highlight how durable they are, too, reporting that they’ll hold up beautifully throughout all the beach vacations you bring them on!
A wearer says they’re adorable, she’s gotten a lot of compliments on them, they tie outfits together very well, and she can walk in them for hours!
Teva Olowahu
Touted as some of the best flip flops for the beach, readers love these Teva Olowahu sandals for their cute and comfortable design. The footbed offers contoured cushioning, and the extra straps give them added stability and a fun look. These cuties are lightweight, great quality, and super comfy to walk around in, too.
A traveler says they stay tight to your foot as you walk and have great arch support, and she wore them all day every single day on her trip to Hawaii, from the beach to hiking to walking around town. She also says she received lots of compliments on them!
Shop: Amazon | Clarks | Zappos
Clarks Breeze Sea
If you have feet that need a lot of support or just want a pair of flip flops that you can do plenty of walking in, the Clarks Breeze Sea flip flops are the ones for you. The footbed has cushioning, arch support, and shock-absorption, while the adjustable straps ensure your feet are secure as you stroll around, and though they’re study, they truly feel weightless! Plus, they’re functional enough for a beach day and stylish enough for going out to dinner.
One reader who brought these Clarks flip flops to Hawaii says she wore them EVERYWHERE — beach, pool, dinner, shopping… she basically lived in them, and they were so comfortable!
Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Fitflop
Fitflop Iqushion
Streamlined and sleek, these FitFlop Iquishion sandals are an absolute dream when it comes to comfort. The bouncy, air-foam cushioning will keep your feet energized, the ergonomically shaped footbed offers plenty of support, and they’re light as can be! Another bonus is that their clean, stylish look is super easy to dress up for nicer occasions.
A TFGer says they’re the best flip-flops she’s ever had, they fit really well and are super comfy, plus she wore them 24/7 on a month-long trip where she did a lot of walking!
We asked our readers what they voted as the best womens flip flops and these are their top picks!
Best Sandals for Hawaii
Aside from flip-flops, you may want to bring another pair of comfortable walking sandals that could work both for the beach and for dressier occasions. Whether you’re getting seaside drinks or enjoying a luau, a pair of elevated yet comfy sandals will be the perfect footwear.
Crocs Brooklyn Wedge
Readers rave about these Crocs Brooklyn wedge sandals, which are just as comfy as they are cute. Your feet will be supported by amazing foam technology, enhanced with deep heel cups and arch support, plus the adjustable straps offer stability. The chunky platform adds about 2” of height and gives them a fun, modern look.
You can get these sandals wet and sandy, and they’ll rinse off easily, too! One wearer says these sandals were perfect for her trip to Hawaii, looked great with all of her outfits, were extremely comfortable, and transitioned well from wet pool or beach areas to dry areas. She added that people were surprised that they were Crocs and she received lots of compliments on them!
Shop: Amazon
Blowfish Malibu Granola
These Blowfish Malibu Granola sandals have a boho-chic look that’s perfect for exploring Hawaii, with pretty faux leather straps that you can dress up or down. Readers say the footbed is soft, the strappy design will keep things airy and cool in the heat, and if your feet don’t need a ton of support, these are also super comfortable for walking longer distances!
Pair them with linen shorts and a white tee for farmers’ markets and sightseeing or with a maxi dress for a nice dinner! One traveler says she loves these sandals and she wore them almost every day on her trip to Maui, even hiking trails wearing them!
Reef Cushion Sol
Made of beautiful vegan leather, these Reef Cushion Sol sandals will look amazing with everything on your packing list! The cushioned footbed feels springy and supportive, sitting atop a durable rubber outsole with summery espadrille detailing. Wearers say the straps are soft and secure and will form to your feet over time!
One wearer reports that these sandals are very comfortable, don’t get too hot on your feet, look great with all kinds of outfits, and can be worn around water, too!
Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Sam Edelman
Sam Edelman Bay
If you want to wear some cute slide sandals, these Sam Edelman slides are an effortlessly chic summer staple, perfect for strolling around your resort, lounging by the pool, or attending a luau. They’re easygoing yet have a luxurious look, so whether you’re in a casual coverup or a stylish beach dress, these sandals will look fab! Wearers say they’re super comfy for short walks and going out to dinner, but you wouldn’t want to do a lot of walking in these.
One traveler who bought these for a vacation and wore them a lot reports that they’re great quality, very comfortable, and super versatile!
Here are comfortable walking sandals that are stylish, too!
Best Sneakers for Hawaii
There are so many great off-beach activities in Hawaii, from perusing local fruit markets to visiting sacred cultural sights to shopping in town. So if you plan on doing some walking, definitely pack a pair of sneakers!
Taos Star
The Taos Star sneakers are one of the top shoes on the website, loved by readers for their classic, versatile look and comfortable features. The cushioned footbed has great arch support, and the soft canvas upper will feel nice and breathable in humid weather. They’ll look cute with everything from skirts to denim shorts, and readers say that you can wear them all day with total comfort!
One TFG reader says she’s worn her Taos for years, they’ve gone around the world with her many times and she’s worn them multiple days in a row with no sore feet! They come in wide sizes, too!
Skechers Go Walk
Known for their reliable comfort, these Skechers Go Walk slip on sneakers are a major favorite among TFG readers! They’re lightweight, ultra-breathable, and boast a highly cushioned memory foam footbed, so they’re incredible for walking-heavy days. They also have great traction and a sleek look that’ll fit into countless outfit combinations, both casual and dressy!
One traveler says she absolutely loves these shoes, they’re lightweight and feel like you’re walking on pillows. She wore them on vacation where she walked over 20K steps every day, and her feet didn’t hurt once!
Vionic Beach Malibu
Our readers adore Vionic for their balance of support and style, and these Beach Malibu slip ons are certainly no exception. These sneakers are decked out with arch support, a deep heel cup to promote stability, shock-absorbing cushioning, and a flexible fit! The simple design is easy to style, and the frayed detailing goes perfectly with the laid-back, beachy style of Hawaii.
One reader describes these shoes as “the best,” while another shares that she has multiple pairs and they’re super supportive and comfortable. They’re available in wide sizes, too!
Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Zappos
On Cloud 5
While you may not think to plan for rain on your trip to Hawaii, it’s not uncommon to experience some showers here and there (so be sure to check the weather forecast leading up to your trip!) If you’re visiting during the rainy season, readers highly recommend these On Cloud 5 waterproof running shoes. A new reader-favorite, these sneakers have great cushioning and arch support, shock absorption, and an ultra-light feel.
They’re also quite stylish for an athletic shoe, so they’ll look great with all of your casual outfits! One wearer says she bought these On Cloud sneakers for a trip where she did a lot of walking, and her feet felt amazing the entire time! Wearers also highlight the easy, slip-on lacing system.
If you prefer white sneakers, here’s what our readers recommends for the best white comfortable shoes for travel!
Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes
How to Pack Your Walking Shoes for Hawaii
Now that you’ve figured out the best shoes to wear in Hawaii, it’s time to prepare for your big trip! Start by selecting a container such as a shoe bag or a packing cube, then pack according to your type of luggage. See more in the video below.
Many of our readers use Compass Rose Packing Cubes to organize and compress their clothing and other items they plan to bring. These packing cubes are the only ones on the market with a number and color-coded system, so you know where you packed everything.
And now the Compass Rose Packing Cubes are offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13” x 5” x 2.8”, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8” x 13” x 8.5”. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase. Users say the medium size is great for bulkier items!
Watch this video to start learning how to organize with packing cubes!
Whether you have a front loading or top loading backpack, it’s crucial to put your shoes first, at the bottom. If you’re planning to pack shoes in a rolling carry-on, remember that it stands sideways, so it’s important to note how it functions when it is upright. Most often, your shoes will need to be packed close to the wheels so that the luggage maintains its balance in transit. This is the secret to packing carry-on only!
What do you think are the best shoes to pack for Hawaii? Share in the comments!
For more Hawaii packing help, please read:
- What to Pack for Hawaii: Packing List for Vacation
- What to Pack for Maui: Clothes, Shoes, Swimwear, and Accessories
- What to Pack for Kauai: 13 Essentials for Hawaii’s “Garden Isle”
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I loved the On Cloud 5’s so much…I ordered them in 2 other colors (including a waterproof pair.) I wish they had “sales” more frequently, because I’d really love the purple pair too!
Suggestions for Vietnam?
Hi elizabeth, check out this guide to help get you started. Have a brilliant time!
https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-vietnam/