Introduction
As the summer season approaches, marked by the Memorial Day Weekend, Stephen Leatherman—widely renowned as Dr. Beach—has unveiled his annual compilation of the top 10 beaches in the United States. Since 1991, Dr. Beach, a professor within the Earth & Environment department at Florida International University, has curiously inspected and assessed beaches nationwide to determine their rankings based on a rigorous evaluation.
Selection Criteria
Dr. Beach employs an extensive set of 50 criteria that addresses various aspects of beach quality including:
- Sand softness
- Water quality
- Safety
- Amenities
- Environmental management
Notably, he awards extra points to beaches enforcing no smoking policies, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean and inviting environment for all visitors.
This Year's Winner: Coopers Beach
This year, the coveted title of the best beach in America has been bestowed upon Coopers Beach in Southampton, New York. Dr. Beach describes this picturesque location at the eastern tip of Long Island as a "dreamy place" characterized by its clean air, clear water, and overall safety, creating an almost otherworldly experience for visitors. "It is warm enough to swim in the summer, particularly starting July because it's shielded from the Labrador current," he noted, while also appreciating that the Hamptons aren’t overly hot during the summer months.
Yearly Shuffle of Rankings
It's essential to recognize that Dr. Beach introduces new contenders each year by retiring the previous winning beach to a Hall of Fame, meaning Coopers Beach will not appear in next year's listing. Past champions have included prominent beaches such as Duke Kahanamoku Beach in Hawaii (2024), St. George Island State Park in Florida (2023), Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach in North Carolina (2022), and Hawaii's Hapuna Beach State Park (2021).
Environmental Vigilance
While some beaches have made a repeat appearance in this year's analysis, it is important to highlight Dr. Beach’s commitment to strict standards. For instance, three beaches were removed from last year’s rankings due to significant erosion and environmental challenges:
- Coronado Beach in California, impacted by pollution from the Tijuana River.
- Caladesi Island in Florida, suffering from storm damage.
- Lighthouse Beach in North Carolina, which has encountered hazardous infrastructure due to erosion.
New entrants into the top 10 include St. Andrews State Park in Florida, Kaunaoa Beach in Hawaii, and Lanikai Beach on Oahu—each a testament to the diverse coastal beauty of the United States.
Highlights from the Top 10 List
Here are noteworthy remarks about some of Dr. Beach’s selected places:
- Coopers Beach "A vast white beach backed by grand sand dunes and opulent mansions. Parking can be pricey, so consider using the 'Hamptons Free Ride' or biking there."
- Wailea Beaches (Maui, HI): "Comprising five beautiful pocket beaches with vibrant tropical flora, Wailea offers an unrivaled Hawaiian experience with abundant parking rights."
- Poipu Beach (Kauai, HI): "Known as a 'tombolo,' it protects against large waves, making it a safe haven for families with children."
- St. Andrews State Park (Florida): "Rich in wildlife, it provides excellent fishing and shelling opportunities with its tranquil surroundings."
Conclusion
This yearly tradition not only celebrates America’s most beautiful beaches but also underlines the commitment to maintaining these coastal treasures for future generations. As travelers gear up for the summer, exploring these recommended spots promises to provide memorable experiences filled with sun, sand, and serene ocean views.
Bias Analysis
Key Questions About This Article
