2025’s 10 Best U.S. Beaches, According to ‘Dr. Beach’

Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York

Coopers Beach in Southampton, New York, was named the best beach in the U.S. for 2025 by Dr.

Stephen P. Leatherman, also known as “Dr.

Beach.” It is famous for its white quartz sand, tall sand dunes, and the elegant mansions that line the shore. While it offers natural beauty and a touch of celebrity allure, traffic and expensive parking can be challenging.

A free shuttle from downtown Southampton is recommended to avoid parking hassles.

Wailea Beach, Maui, Hawaii

Wailea Beach on Maui’s southwest coast earned second place on Dr. Beach’s 2025 list.

Part of the Wailea resort area, it has soft white coral sand and a gentle slope perfect for snorkeling when the ocean is calm. The beach is bordered by well-kept parks filled with tropical plants and flowering trees.

It is one of Maui’s most popular spots for both relaxation and outdoor activities.

Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

Poipu Beach on Kauai’s southern shore ranks third this year. The beach is made up of two small coves separated by a narrow sand spit, creating a shallow area that is perfect for children to play.

It’s also common to see green sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals sunning themselves on the sand. Visitors come for the wildlife as much as the warm, clear water.

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, Naples, Florida

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples, Florida, holds the fourth spot. This barrier island is known for its bright white sand and calm, clear Gulf waters.

Visitors enjoy swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, shelling, and fishing in the park. Wildlife is abundant, including bald eagles, ospreys, and the occasional manatee.

Main Beach, East Hampton, New York

Main Beach in East Hampton, New York, comes in fifth. It blends wide sandy shores made of grainy quartz with tall sand dunes and views of the Atlantic.

The water is clear and blue, and it’s not uncommon to spot celebrities relaxing on the sand. This combination of natural charm and high-profile visitors keeps Main Beach among the country’s favorites.

Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island, South Carolina, is ranked sixth. This beach is praised for its unspoiled landscape, with a broad sandy shoreline and thick maritime forests behind it.

It’s a peaceful place perfect for birdwatching and long walks. The quiet atmosphere makes it a favorite for families seeking a slower pace.

St. Andrews State Park, Panama City, Florida

St. Andrews State Park in Panama City, Florida, takes the seventh spot.

The park is known for its bright white sand and clear water ideal for shelling and spotting shorebirds. One section of the park is separated by an inlet and can only be reached by boat, offering extra seclusion.

This mix of natural beauty and privacy appeals to many visitors.

Kaunaoa Beach, Big Island, Hawaii

Kaunaoa Beach, often called Mauna Kea Beach, on the Big Island of Hawaii, comes in eighth. The beach forms a crescent with turquoise water and fine white coral sand.

It is popular for swimming and snorkeling, with access available through the Mauna Kea Resort. Its gentle waves and clear views make it a postcard-perfect spot.

Lanikai Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

Lanikai Beach on Oahu holds the ninth place. Though small with limited access, it is often considered one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches.

The water is shallow, warm, and crystal clear, ideal for kayaking and swimming. Two small offshore islands create a stunning backdrop for photos.

Coast Guard Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, rounds out the top ten. The beach is known for its old Coast Guard station perched above the dunes and sweeping views of the barrier system and bay.

Seals often gather near the shore, which sometimes attracts great white sharks, but lifeguards are careful to keep swimmers informed. The natural scenery and wildlife make it a memorable place to visit.

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