With summer in full swing, many people are looking for the best beaches in the United States. Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, also known as Dr. Beach, is the go-to expert for beach rankings.
Dr. Beach has been ranking U.S. beaches for over 25 years. Utilizing a comprehensive 50-point scale, Dr. Beach evaluates beaches based on various factors, including sand quality, water quality, safety, amenities, and environmental friendliness. As a geoscientist and coastal ecologist, he gained his nickname during his tenure as a professor at the University of Maryland, where he taught a course focused on waves and beaches. His students dubbed him “Dr. Beach” because of his expertise in beach science.
Dr. Beach’s annual beach rankings are eagerly anticipated by beach lovers around the country. His rankings are a great resource for finding the best beaches for your next vacation.
Keeping that in consideration, presented below is an exclusive compilation of the top ten beaches in the United States for the year 2023.
10. Coast Guard Beach: A Natural Wonder
Coast Guard Beach is a long, sandy beach located on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore and is known for its pristine water, soft sand, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing.
In the summer, the beach is crowded with people enjoying the warm weather and the beautiful scenery. However, even on the busiest days, there is always plenty of room to spread out and relax. The beach is also a great place to go for a walk or a bike ride.
In the fall, the beach is a great place to watch the changing leaves. The reds, oranges, and yellows of the fall foliage are reflected in the water, creating a stunning sight.
In the winter, the beach is a great place to go for a walk or a snowshoe hike. The snow-covered dunes and the crashing waves make for a winter wonderland.
Coast Guard Beach is a beautiful and natural wonder that is a must-see for anyone visiting Cape Cod.
Here are some additional details about Coast Guard Beach:
- It is 2.5 miles long and 100 yards wide.
- The sand is soft and white.
- The water is clear and blue.
- There are lifeguards on duty from mid-June to Labor Day.
- There are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables available.
- The beach is open year-round.
9. Poipu Beach: A Tropical Paradise
Poipu Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand and clear blue water located on the south coast of Kauai, Hawaii. With its allure for swimming, sunbathing, and engaging in water sports, this beach has gained popularity among visitors. Moreover, it boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and an array of fish species, creating a captivating ecosystem.
In the morning, the beach is a tranquil place to relax and enjoy the sunrise. The waves are gentle and the sand is warm. In the afternoon, the beach is a lively place to swim, sunbathe, and play in the waves. The sand exudes a velvety softness, while the waters offer remarkable clarity, creating an idyllic environment for beachgoers. In the evening, the beach is a romantic place to watch the sunset. The sky is ablaze with color and the waves crash gently on the shore.
Poipu Beach is a tropical paradise that is perfect for a relaxing or adventurous vacation. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, surf, snorkel, or simply relax on the beach, Poipu Beach has something for everyone.
Here are some additional details about Poipu Beach:
- It is a two-mile long beach.
- The sand is soft and white.
- The water is clear and blue.
- There are lifeguards on duty from 9am to 5pm daily.
- There are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables available.
- The beach is open year-round.
8. Beachwalker Park: A Natural Oasis
Beachwalker Park is a hidden gem located on Kiawah Island, South Carolina. It is a 1.25-mile long beach that is known for its soft sand, clear water, and dunes. The park is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and walking.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and shorebirds. Visitors can often see dolphins playing in the waves or sea turtles sunning themselves on the sand.
Beachwalker Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the serene tranquility of this coastal haven, where nature’s beauty envelops you, providing the perfect escape to relax and unwind.
Here are some additional details about Beachwalker Park:
- It is located on the west end of Kiawah Island.
- There is a $5-$15 entrance fee for cars, depending on the season.
- The park is open from 9am to 5pm daily, depending on the season.
7. Wailea Beach: A Pristine Paradise
Wailea Beach is a three-mile long stretch of white sand and clear blue water located on the west coast of Maui, Hawaii. Renowned for its appeal to swimmers, sunbathers, and water sports enthusiasts, the beach is also a cherished habitat for a diverse array of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and an abundance of fish species.
Wailea Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The sand is soft and the water is warm. The waves are gentle, making it a safe place for swimming and snorkeling. There are also plenty of opportunities for water sports, such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking.
In addition to its natural beauty, Wailea Beach is also home to a number of luxurious resorts and restaurants. This makes it a popular destination for couples and families alike.
If you are looking for a relaxing and luxurious beach vacation, Wailea Beach is the perfect place for you.
Here are some additional details about Wailea Beach:
- It is located on the west coast of Maui, Hawaii.
- It is a three-mile long beach.
- The sand is soft and white.
- The water is clear and blue.
- There are lifeguards on duty from 9am to 5pm daily.
- There are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables available.
- The beach is open year-round.
6. Coronado Beach: A Beautiful Coastal Destination
Coronado Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand located just across the bay from San Diego, California. Delighting both swimmers and sunbathers, the beach is also a magnet for surfing enthusiasts who seek the thrill of riding the waves. The beach is also home to a number of restaurants and shops, making it a great place to spend a day or two exploring.
Coronado Beach is known for its soft sand, clear water, and stunning views of the San Diego skyline. The beach is also home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Hotel del Coronado, a National Historic Landmark.
If you are looking for a fun and relaxing beach vacation, Coronado Beach is the perfect place for you. There are plenty of things to do, see, and eat on Coronado Beach, making it a great destination for all ages.
Here are some additional details about Coronado Beach:
- It is located just across the bay from San Diego, California.
- It is a two-mile long beach.
- The sand is soft and white.
- The water is clear and blue.
- There are lifeguards on duty from 9am to 5pm daily.
- There are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables available.
- The beach is open year-round.
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5. Lighthouse Beach: A Popular Spot for Swimming, Surfing, and Sightseeing
Lighthouse Beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sightseeing in Buxton, Outer Banks of North Carolina. It is located just steps from the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States.
The beach is known for its soft sand, clear water, and strong waves. Indulge in the delights of swimming, surfing, and sunbathing at this popular beach destination, where every moment is filled with excitement and relaxation. There are also opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
The beach is open year-round, but it is busiest during the summer months. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, dedicated lifeguards vigilantly oversee the beach, ensuring the safety and well-being of all visitors.
If you are looking for a fun and relaxing beach vacation, Lighthouse Beach is the perfect place for you. There are plenty of things to do, see, and eat in Buxton, making it a great destination for all ages.
Here are some additional details about Lighthouse Beach:
- It is located in Buxton, Outer Banks of North Carolina.
- It is a two-mile long beach.
- The sand is soft and white.
- The water is clear and blue.
- There are lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
- There are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables available.
- The beach is open year-round.
4. Caladesi Island State Park: A Natural Refuge
Caladesi Island State Park is a 2,200-acre island park located just off the coast of Dunedin and Clearwater, Florida. The park is home to a variety of natural habitats, including beaches, dunes, forests, and marshes.
Florida’s park boasts some of the most immaculate beaches, a testament to their pristine condition and unspoiled beauty. The sand is white and soft, and the water is clear and blue. The park’s pristine beaches attract numerous visitors who enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and shelling.
Within the park’s dunes, a diverse range of plants and animals, including sea oats, shorebirds, and sea turtles, find their habitat. These dunes serve as a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and birdwatchers.
The park’s marshes are home to a variety of plants and animals, including alligators, turtles, and birds. The park’s marshes are a popular spot for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Caladesi Island State Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The park offers a variety of activities for all ages, making it a great destination for families, couples, and individuals alike.
Here are some additional details about Caladesi Island State Park:
- It is located just off the coast of Dunedin and Clearwater, Florida.
- It is 2,200 acres in size.
- The park is home to a variety of natural habitats, including beaches, dunes, forests, and marshes.
- The park’s beaches are some of the most pristine in Florida.
- The park’s dunes are home to a variety of plants and animals.
- The park’s forests are home to a variety of trees.
- The park’s marshes are home to a variety of plants and animals.
- The park offers a variety of activities for all ages.
3. Coopers Beach: A Classic Hamptons Beach
Coopers Beach is a two-mile long beach located in Southampton, New York. It is known for its soft, white sand, clear blue water, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
There are also a number of restaurants and shops located near the beach, making it a great place to spend a day or two exploring.
Coopers Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Hamptons. The beach is open year-round, but it is busiest during the summer months. There are lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Here are some additional details about Coopers Beach:
- It is located in Southampton, New York.
- It is a two-mile long beach.
- The sand is soft and white.
- The water is clear and blue.
- There are lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
- There are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables available.
- The beach is open year-round.
2. Kahanamoku Beach, Oahu, Hawaii
Kahanamoku Beach is a beautiful beach located in the town of Kahalu’u on the west coast of Oahu, Hawaii. The beach is named after Duke Kahanamoku, a Hawaiian Olympic swimmer and surfing pioneer. Kahalu’u Beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and kayaking. The beach is also home to a number of restaurants and shops.
Kahanamoku Beach is located about 15 miles south of Kailua-Kona. The beach is accessible by car, bus, or bike. There is a small parking lot at the beach, but it can fill up quickly. If the parking lot is full, you can park in a nearby neighborhood and walk to the beach.
1. St. George Island State Park, Florida Panhandle
St. George Island State Park is a hidden gem on the Florida Panhandle. The park is home to nine miles of undeveloped white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush pine forests. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking in the park. There are also several camping areas available for overnight stays.
One of the best things about St. George Island State Park is its remote location. The park is located on a barrier island, which means it is surrounded by water on three sides. This makes the park feel secluded and peaceful. Visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the natural beauty of the Florida Panhandle.
If you are looking for a relaxing and unforgettable vacation, St. George Island State Park is the perfect place for you. The park offers something for everyone, from families with young children to couples looking for a romantic getaway. So pack your bags and head to St. George Island State Park for a truly unforgettable experience.
