Millions of Americans will be hitting the beach this weekend for the Memorial Day holiday, and while we may have our favorites, some are definitely better than others. So which beaches are the best? Dr. Beach is here to help with his annual list of the Best Beaches in the U.S.
- Dr. Beach is actually coastal scientist Stephen Leatherman and he’s been creating this list since 1991.
- He ranks beaches across the country using 50 criteria, which include water and sand quality, the size of waves, the shape of the beach, wildlife, public safety and cleanliness.
- Topping the list for 2024 is Duke Kahanamoku Beach in Oahu, Hawaii.
- He loves this beach, which was number two on last year’s list, because it’s “located at the west end of Waikiki Beach, far from the large crowds elsewhere.”
- Dr. Beach points out that it’s the widest beach on this famous stretch of sand and it’s protected by an offshore coral reef, making it great for families with kids.
Dr. Beach’s Top 10 Beaches in the U.S. in 2024
- Duke Kahanamoku Beach: Oahu, Hawaii
- Coopers Beach: Southampton, New York
- Wailea Beach: Maui, Hawaii
- Caladesi Island State Park: Dunedin/Clearwater, Florida
- Beachwalker Park: Kiawah Island, South Carolina
- Main Beach: East Hampton, New York
- Poipu Beach: Kauai, Hawaii
- Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park: Naples, Florida
- Coast Guard Beach: Cape Cod, Massachusetts
- Coronado Beach: San Diego, California
Source: CNN