DizzKneeLand-
The Nile style is open toed with a wide band that goes over the top of the foot and the back strap that can be put around the heel or pushed forward to wear the shoe like a clog (although it doesn't look like a clog, it looks more like a sandle). I don't dislike my Niles, but there is just a different feel to the wear of the shoe. The band across the top is tighter than the Beach style (although not "tight") and the bumpy things on the sole of the shoe seem to be harder, more pokey (although not "uncomfortable") and there is a feeling of the arched (inner side) of the Nile to be a little higher giving my foot the slightest feeling of being being "tipped outward". Although I like the look of the Nile better, I've just found the feel of the Beach to be more comfortable...although, like I said the Nile is not uncomortable, just doesn't feel as "right" as the Beach. Does all that make sense? LOL, my kids are looking at me funny cause I'm wearing one of each shoe analyzing the feel of each!