Too many shoes...

I don't know what you call decent flip flops but my "fun" ones run around $50.00 and my "good" ones around $90.00 and I would never throw them away. I don't wear water shoes at home so I don't think I would take them on vacation.

The beaches are often pebbly and rocky. We bring inexpensive water shoes and throw them away. If you want to go in the water you’ll be glad you have them.

Inexpensive water shoes as in Walmart.

I've never had great luck with flip flops staying on my feet when I'm in the water, unless I'm just wading. About a month ago someone on the forum was raving about some shoes she picked up that were very lightweight, intended to be water shoes, but they looked like sneakers and she used them for walking/sightseeing AND in the water. My daughter-in-law, said she got similar on Amazon for about $25. Another option would be Chacos since they are buckled on your feet. They do pack pretty small and they are so comfortable that if you are like me, you will wear them all the time. But, you wouldn't throw them away because they are pricey. I did pick up a couple pairs off Nordstrom Rack.com for about a third off just recently.

Beaches are not fine sand. Often fairly rocky and the black beach can be very hot so you need a foot covering just to walk across. Get some cheap water shoes. Coming from Hawaii you may be disappointed with the beaches.

They usually sell the cheap water shoes near the beaches. If anyone has been there maybe they can confirm. Then just toss them when done.

I used my Keens when I discovered that Sea urchins inhabited the sea at the beach we used in Crete. Did not want to encounter one of those barefoot.... When we returned from the beach, gave them a quick rinse in the kitchen sink and put them outside to dry. Often wore them the same evening if going out! Keens are the greatest multi-purpose footwear; not terribly stylish but great shoe if you are packing light. And last well, I still have my first pair bought at least 10 years ago and still going strong.

Water shoes are a necessity in the Mediterranean for me now. The beaches are usually very rocky, and the rocks don't stop when walking into the water. Locals do it without water shoes just fine, but I end up hurting my feet and falling in the shallow part of the sea, or doing a lovely sit-scoot into the deeper water so I don't have to walk. Flip flops are fine for walking around the beach but if you want to go IN the water, then water shoes are useful. Flip flops won't stay on.

I have a cheap speedo-brand pair of water shoes from target, works just fine and is very lightweight. One time I tried having sandals that could be worn in and out of the water, but they weren't comfortable on land and a little heavy in the water.

With the amount of disposable items being used once and tossed, it might be nice to take something a bit sturdier that is good on land and sea. I have some Teva that are waterproof - now, I haven't worn them on the beach, but I did stick my feet in plenty of fountains and streams when it was hot...and they are also super comfortable for every day. I'm on my second pair, and pretty much live in them in the hot weather since 2014. My first pair were the Tirra, which had the 'spider' rubber for grip on wet surfaces...my newest style is the Verra - which is a little 'dressier' (fewer straps) than the Tirra.

But I guess you'd be hard pressed to get and break in a new pair of sandals before you go away.

Nicole, AGREED. Thank you for thinking about our environment. My daughter has Tevas that are styled like chaco (flat sole with a few straps) but the sole is thinner than chaco. They would add very little to a suitcase.

Or perhaps pair down one of the other pairs of shoes you are taking????? :) I guess this is a case of need to take vs want to take. I must confess though I am NOT a shoe person so one pair of sturdy shoes took me through 10 days in Ireland.

Jules...the Verra are so lightweight but are so darn comfy. I took them and Blundstones to France in early July. Not sure what I was thinking taking the boots, it was so hot the ONLY time I wore them was on the plane on the way over. The Teva were perfection.

There’s two approaches. I usually do the first:

First - Take sandals that also work as water shoes. I prefer the Merrill Siren Wrap Q2. These have covered toes, which work best for hiking etc. there is also the Merrill Siren Strap Q2 if you prefer the standard look.

Both have great soles for hiking and other adventures. They are nice enough to wear out to dinner. They do it all.

Second - take some inexpensive water shoes like Aqua socks. They are small and won’t take up too much room in your luggage. You can get them almost anywhere.

Thank you for the wonderful advice, lots to think about...

You're in Hawaii - just ask a surfer what to use. I like Teva, but that's because I kayak/canoe. You can find what you want locally and they don't weigh much. Wear them before you go.

I second Keens. My daughter and I lived in ours in Greece, in the water and out. I loved the arch support in mine, fairly homely shoe but who cares, they’re comfortable. I recommend a lighter color so they don’t stand out as much.