Here Are Dr. Beach's Top 10 Beaches in America for 2023

Acclaimed coastal researcher Dr. Beach has released his highly anticipated annual compilation of America's top beaches, just in time for Memorial Day.

This year, a beach on the Florida Panhandle claims the crown. Stephen Leatherman of Florida International University, better known as Dr. Beach, has been curating this well-regarded list for over three decades. His rankings are built on 50 criteria that covers everything from the quality of sand and wave activity to crowds and wildlife. Here's Dr. Beache's top 10 for 2023:

1. St. George Island State Park, Florida Panhandle

2. Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

3. Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York

4. Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin/Clearwater, Florida

5. Lighthouse Beach, Buxton, Outer Banks of North Carolina

6. Coronado Beach, San Diego

7. Wailea Beach, Maui, Hawaii

8. Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island, South Carolina

9. Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

10. Coast Guard Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts

St. George Island State Park is no stranger to best beach lists but what makes it this year's frontrunner? According to Dr. Beach, the park boasts extensive stretches of pristine and undisturbed beaches, dubbing it an "idyllic space," and its complete absence of cigarette butts during his evaluation earned the park extra points. He said, "I think people are starting to realize that our beaches are among our most valuable leisure spots."