Dr. Stephen Leatherman, affectionately known as “Dr. Beach,” has been the definitive authority on America’s finest shorelines for over three decades, meticulously ranking beaches based on 50 criteria, including sand quality, water clarity, safety, and environmental stewardship. His highly anticipated 2025 list of the top 10 U.S. beaches showcases a diverse array of coastal gems, from the pristine quartz sands of Coopers Beach in New York to the tropical allure of Hawaii’s Wailea and Poipu Beaches. These selections, spanning serene East Coast retreats, vibrant Florida state parks, and breathtaking Hawaiian shores, reflect Dr. Beach’s commitment to highlighting destinations that balance natural beauty with sustainable management, inviting visitors to experience the best of America’s coastlines.
Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York
Coopers Beach in Southampton, New York, earns the top spot on Dr. Beach’s 2025 list, celebrated for its expansive, pristine shoreline and stunning natural beauty. This Hamptons gem features hundreds of yards of soft, white quartz sand, backed by large sand dunes adorned with American beach grass, interspersed with extravagant mansions. The beach offers a serene escape with clean waters and a picturesque setting, ideal for sunbathing and leisurely strolls. Despite its popularity, visitors can avoid high parking costs and traffic by utilizing the free “Hamptons Free Ride” shuttle from downtown Southampton, making it accessible for all. September is the best time to visit, when crowds thin but the ocean remains warm. Coopers Beach’s high ranking reflects its exceptional sand quality, safety, and environmental management, as evaluated by Dr. Stephen Leatherman’s rigorous 50-criteria checklist.
Address: 268 Meadow Ln, Southampton, NY 11968
Website: https://greaterlongisland.com/coopers-beach-in-southampton-named-no-1-beach-in-america/
Wailea Beach, Maui, Hawaii
Wailea Beach, located on Maui’s sunny south shore, secures second place on Dr. Beach’s 2025 rankings, renowned for its series of five pocket beaches framed by lush tropical vegetation. This public beach, part of the Wailea resort complex, boasts white coral sand that gently slopes into clear, snorkel-friendly waters, perfect for swimming when calm. The beach is lined with luxury hotels set back to preserve a beautifully landscaped park-like setting, adorned with flowering bushes and trees. Visitors can enjoy water sports like outrigger canoe paddling, and public access is guaranteed despite the upscale surroundings. Dr. Beach praises its vibrant ecosystem and cleanliness, making it a top choice for relaxation and natural beauty.
Address: Wailea Beach Path, Wailea, HI 96753
Website: https://mauiguidebook.com/beaches/wailea-beach/
Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii
Poipu Beach on Kauai’s dry south side ranks third on Dr. Beach’s 2025 list, distinguished by its unique tombolo—a narrow sand spit creating two crescent-shaped beaches in one. This feature, along with an offshore island, calms waves, making it a safe haven for children and ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing depending on the section. The white sand and clear waters are complemented by a family-friendly atmosphere, with amenities like picnic areas and lifeguards. Dr. Beach highlights its versatility, catering to both adventure seekers and those seeking tranquility. Poipu’s pristine condition and natural beauty make it a standout.
Address: 1571 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756
Website: https://www.kauai.com/poipu-beach
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, Naples, Florida
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples, Florida, claims the fourth spot on Dr. Beach’s 2025 rankings, lauded for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear Gulf waters. This barrier island park offers a wealth of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, shelling, and fishing, with pine trees providing shaded respite. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot bald eagles, ospreys, and manatees, enhancing the park’s natural allure. Despite damage from hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024, the park reopened in February 2025, showcasing its resilience. Dr. Beach commends its environmental management and smoke-free policy, contributing to its high score.
Address: 11135 Gulf Shore Dr, Naples, FL 34108
Website: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/delnor-wiggins-pass-state-park
Main Beach, East Hampton, New York
Main Beach in East Hampton, New York, ranks fifth on Dr. Beach’s 2025 list, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and sophisticated charm in the Hamptons. Known for its fine sand and gentle waves, this beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and celebrity spotting, given its proximity to celebrity-owned properties. The beach’s clean, well-maintained environment and scenic dunes make it a favorite for visitors seeking both relaxation and a touch of glamour. Dr. Beach suggests biking to avoid parking hassles, enhancing accessibility. Its high ranking reflects excellent water quality and amenities like lifeguards.
Address: 104 Ocean Ave, East Hampton, NY 11937
Website: https://easthamptonvillage.gov/departments/village-beaches/
Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island, South Carolina, takes the sixth spot on Dr. Beach’s 2025 list, a haven for nature lovers south of Charleston. This public beach features fine-grained sand and tidal inlets perfect for kayaking and canoeing. Visitors can walk or bike to Captain Sam’s Inlet to observe thousands of birds, though the water is less clear than some competitors. Dr. Beach praises its clean, natural setting and abundant seafood, making it a top pick for eco-conscious travelers. The park’s commitment to conservation and minimal development elevates its ranking.
Address: 1401 Beachwalker Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Website: https://ccprc.com/1411/Kiawah-Beachwalker-Park
St. Andrews State Park, Panama City, Florida
St. Andrews State Park in Panama City, Florida, ranks seventh on Dr. Beach’s 2025 list, celebrated for its strikingly white sandy beaches and rich biodiversity. Accessible by ferry or boat, the park’s Shell Island is a hotspot for shelling and birdwatching, while the Gulf and St. Andrews Bay offer swimming and snorkeling. Dr. Beach highlights its remote feel, despite nearby high-rise hotels and attractions like putt-putt golf. The park’s clean waters, trails, and camping options make it a versatile destination. Its high score reflects strong environmental practices.
Address: 4607 State Park Ln, Panama City, FL 32408
Website: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/st-andrews-state-park
Kaunaoa, Big Island, Hawaii
Kaunaoa Beach, also known as Mauna Kea Beach, on Hawaii’s Big Island, secures eighth place on Dr. Beach’s 2025 rankings. This hidden jewel within the Mauna Kea Beach Resort features a quarter-mile-long pocket beach with clear turquoise water and white coral sand contrasting against black lava rock. Ideal for snorkeling and swimming, its tranquil setting is enhanced by lush tropical vegetation. Dr. Beach notes the need to arrive early due to limited parking, but its pristine beauty makes it worth the effort.
Address: 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr, Waimea, HI 96743.
Website: https://bigislandguide.com/kaunaoa-beach-mauna-kea-beach
Lanikai Beach, Oahu, Hawaii
Lanikai Beach on Oahu, Hawaii, ranks ninth on Dr. Beach’s 2025 list, often hailed as one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches. Its small size belies its charm, with perfectly clear, shallow waters and a stunning backdrop of two offshore islands. Ideal for kayaking and swimming, the beach faces erosion challenges on its western end, but Mokumanu Drive offers a sandy bulge for visitors. Dr. Beach advises using public transport or walking due to limited parking. Its high ranking reflects exceptional water clarity and aesthetics.
Address: Mokulua Dr, Kailua, HI 96734.
Website: https://www.hawaii-guide.com/oahu/beaches/lanikai-beach
Coast Guard Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, rounds out Dr. Beach’s 2025 top 10, cherished for its classic New England charm and expansive sandy shores. Popular for surfing and swimming, the beach is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, ensuring pristine conditions and minimal development. Dr. Beach praises its strong currents for experienced surfers and its clean, algae-free waters. Amenities like lifeguards and restrooms enhance its appeal, while its natural beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit.
Address: 1 Nauset Rd, Eastham, MA 02642.
Website: https://www.nps.gov/caco/planyourvisit/coast-guard-beach-eastham.htm