How far ya hiking, Kevon?
I've hiked in all kinds of sand but the worst was beach sand. Sandals were fine for short distances but with a long hike, more than a couple miles, I'd rather keep the sand and water away from my skin. Wet sand and sandals gave me some serious hot spots. Trail runners with a gusseted tongue worked OK in packed wet sand but not loose sand. Boots, again with a gusseted tongue, worked best in all sand. Boots with gaters work best if you are hiking dunes.
I've tried going barefoot too, but after a while the balls of my feet started catching heck.