In a surprising twist, the annual best beach rankings by Dr. Beach, also known as Dr. Stephen Leatherman, have placed a New York beach at the helm, overshadowing four stunning Hawaiian beaches that also made the list.
For over three decades, Dr. Beach has released his esteemed rankings, evaluating beaches on a variety of criteria including wave breaks, beach slopes, and even the presence of noise and pests.
The top beach of 2025 is Coopers Beach, located in Southampton, New York.
Renowned for its picturesque miles of grainy white quartz sand and stunning large sand dunes covered with American beach grass, Coopers Beach is also adorned with extravagant mansions that highlight its luxurious appeal.
However, Dr. Beach does caution visitors about the parking situation, suggesting taking the “Hamptons Free Ride” shuttle from downtown due to the $50 daily parking fee.
Following Coopers Beach, the rankings continue with Wailea Beach in Maui, Hawaii, which secured the No. 2 position.
Dr. Beach praises Wailea for its series of five pocket beaches, perfect for snorkeling adventures.
The beautifully landscaped park between the beach and luxury hotels adds to its serene atmosphere.
Claiming the third spot is Poipu Beach in Kauai, Hawaii.
This beach is noted for its unique geographical layout, featuring a tombolo—a narrow sand spit connecting the shore to an offshore island.
This natural barrier helps calm the waters, making it an ideal play area for children.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples, Florida, takes the No. 4 position, renowned for its crystal-clear Gulf waters and vibrant wildlife.
Visitors have the opportunity to spot ospreys, bald eagles, and manatees, providing a perfect mix of relaxation and nature immersion.
Main Beach in East Hampton, New York, holds the fifth spot.
Protected by a conservation easement for over 300 years, this beach is a popular choice among celebrities.
Dr. Beach recommends travelers avoid the parking hassle by opting for biking around the area instead.
Running in sixth place is Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island, South Carolina.
Ideal for nature enthusiasts, this beach invites visitors to explore its tidal inlets by kayak or canoe.
While not known for crystal-clear waters, its natural beauty and proximity to great seafood make it a favorite.
St. Andrews State Park in Panama City, Florida, is ranked seventh, and at eighth is Kaunaoa Beach, also known as Mauna Kea Beach, on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Dr. Beach refers to Kaunaoa as a hidden jewel due to its beautiful turquoise waters and its location within the Mauna Kea Beach Resort.
At number nine on the list is Lanikai Beach in Oahu, Hawaii.
Despite its smaller size, Lanikai continues to captivate visitors with its breathtaking scenery reminiscent of Disney’s ‘Moana.’
Finally, rounding out the top ten is Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, which offers an adventurous beach experience despite the brisk water temperatures.
Dr. Beach’s evaluations, which span over 50 benchmarks, remind us of the diverse beauty our coastlines have to offer — from the luxurious shores of New York to the tropical havens of Hawaii.
As travelers gear up for summer, these top-ranked beaches present a variety of choices for anyone looking to soak up the sun.
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