Closed-toe water shoes are better for shell protection.

That is the move.

Hot sand is solved by having a thick enough sole — most water shoes and sandals with a rubber outsole do fine. Shells are the real problem. Open-toe sandals expose your toes and the sides of your feet, and one bad step on a broken shell ruins the walk.

Closed-toe water shoes (like the Keen Newport or similar hybrids) handle both: thick sole for heat, rubber toe cap for shells. They drain water, dry fast, and grip wet rocks. The downside is they trap sand and get stuffy, but that trade-off is worth it if you actually care about stepping on shells.

If you really hate closed toes, get a sandal with a thick sole and a strap that holds your foot snug — like Chacos. But then watch your toes. That is the compromise.

You are either protecting your feet or you are not. Choose accordingly.