Best shoes

9 best shoes for San Diego in August

highs of 83°F, lows of 70°F, 0 rainy days — here's what to put on your feet.

Primary: Walking sandals · Backup: Breathable sneakers · Usually skip: Nothing critical — pack what you already walk in

Why these shoes for San Diego in August

San Diego in August averages highs around 83°F, lows near 70°F, 0 rainy days.

Breathability wins in hot, dry weather. Mesh uppers and open sandals will keep you from sweating through a full day of walking.

One well-chosen pair covers this climate month for most travelers — add a second only if you need dress or activity-specific footwear.

Our picks focus on walking sandals, breathable sneakers, slip-ons — enough range to cover day-to-day walking without overpacking.

How many pairs?

One solid pair is enough

Recommendation: 1 pair

  • A versatile everyday shoe covers most of this climate month.
  • Skip a second pair unless you need dress shoes for a specific night.

Best sandals for San Diego in August

ForecastStyle pick Black Leather Cushioned Slide Sandals

ForecastStyle pick

Black Leather Cushioned Slide Sandals

$$

A molded footbed and buttery soft leather straps make these slides comfortable enough for all-day wear. The minimal design pairs easily w…

Breathable for ~83°F highs

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Puffy Puffy Braided White Slide Sandals

Puffy

Puffy Braided White Slide Sandals

$$

A soft, braided strap adds texture and interest to this minimalist slide sandal. The cushioned footbed provides all-day comfort for warm-…

Breathable for ~83°F highs

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ForecastStyle pick Everyday Black Leather Slide Sandals

ForecastStyle pick

Everyday Black Leather Slide Sandals

$$

These simple slides feature a molded footbed for all-day comfort. Their minimalist design pairs effortlessly with everything from linen t…

Breathable for ~83°F highs

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Best breathable sneakers for San Diego in August

ForecastStyle pick Black Waterproof Knit High-Top Sneakers

ForecastStyle pick

Black Waterproof Knit High-Top Sneakers

$$

Black waterproof knit high-tops that slip through security easily and dry faster than leather after a downpour. Cushioned midsoles suppor…

Breathable for ~83°F highs

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Cream Cream Knit Everyday Sneakers

Cream

Cream Knit Everyday Sneakers

$$

Cream knit everyday sneakers that breathe on warm days and slip on easily for security. Soft sock-like upper with a cushioned footbed for…

Breathable for ~83°F highs

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ForecastStyle pick White Quick-Dry Waterproof City Sneakers

ForecastStyle pick

White Quick-Dry Waterproof City Sneakers

$$

White waterproof city sneakers that rinse clean after wet streets. Packable silhouette with cushioned midsoles for airports and rainy sig…

Breathable for ~83°F highs

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Best slip-on shoes for San Diego in August

ForecastStyle pick Black Low Block-Heel Slingback Flats

ForecastStyle pick

Black Low Block-Heel Slingback Flats

$$

Black slingback flats with a low block heel for dinners and theater nights. Secure strap and flexible sole keep them practical for short …

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ForecastStyle pick Olive green slip-on sneakers

ForecastStyle pick

Olive green slip-on sneakers

$$

Slip-on canvas sneakers in olive green with a vulcanized sole. An easy everyday shoe with a slightly outdoorsy edge.

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Leopard Leopard Print Pointed-Toe Flats

Leopard

Leopard Print Pointed-Toe Flats

$$

A timeless pointed-toe flat that adds a playful touch to any outfit, from jeans to dresses. The padded insole ensures all-day comfort.

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Full San Diego summer style guide — outfits beyond shoes

San Diego Summer 2026 Packing Guide

Style Guide

San Diego Summer 2026 Packing Guide

Pack smart for a stylish, weather-proof trip to San Diego in summer

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Climate-matched looks for San Diego in August.

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FAQ

Are waterproof shoes necessary in San Diego in August?

Not usually — only around 0 rainy days. A shoe that dries quickly is enough.

Do I need boots in San Diego in August?

Not really — average lows near 70°F stay above the boot threshold. A supportive sneaker is enough.

Can I wear sandals in San Diego in August?

Absolutely — with highs around 83°F, sandals are the daily driver.

Can I get by with one pair of shoes in San Diego in August?

Yes — one versatile pair (or sandals + one closed backup for restaurants) usually covers a hot, dry month.

What about dressy dinners in San Diego?

Most cities accept clean sneakers or light boots for smart-casual dinners. If you have a black-tie night, pack one dress shoe and wear your walking pair on the plane.

Any tips for packing shoes for San Diego?

Wear the bulkiest pair on the plane, stuff socks into the packed pair, and use a shoe bag so damp soles do not ruin clothes. Pack a thin spare pair of socks for rainy days.

See the full packing list for San Diego in AugustOutfit ideas for San Diego in AugustAll months — best shoes for San Diego