Dr. Beach's Top 10 US Beaches For 2025

5 min read Post on May 23, 2025

Every year, Dr. Stephen Leatherman (a.k.a. Dr. Beach) releases his highly anticipated list of the top US beaches. For 2025, his expert analysis reveals ten stunning coastal destinations offering unparalleled beauty, amenities, and overall beach experience. This guide unveils his top picks, providing you with the information you need to plan your dream beach vacation. Get ready to explore the best of America's coastline!

#1 Beach: Clearwater Beach, Florida – A Detailed Look

Pristine Sands and Crystal-Clear Waters:

Clearwater Beach boasts soft, white sand that's perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles. The water is remarkably clear, with a gentle turquoise hue, ideal for swimming and various water sports. The shallow, calm waters make it exceptionally family-friendly, with warm temperatures inviting hours of fun in the sun.

Activities and Amenities:

Clearwater Beach offers a wide array of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to parasailing, jet skiing, and dolphin-watching tours. Numerous beachfront restaurants provide delicious dining options, ranging from casual cafes to upscale seafood restaurants. Plenty of hotels and resorts offer accommodation choices to suit all budgets. The beach is easily accessible, with ample parking and wheelchair-accessible walkways.

Getting There and Practical Information:

Clearwater Beach is located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, easily accessible via car from Tampa International Airport (TPA). Public transportation is also available. Parking is readily available, although it can fill up during peak season. There are no entry fees to access the beach. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Award-winning lifeguard service ensuring visitor safety.
Numerous concession stands offering snacks, drinks, and beach gear.
Excellent accessibility features for visitors with disabilities.

#2 - #10 Beaches: A Quick Overview

Siesta Key Beach, Florida:

Known for its incredibly fine, quartz-crystal sand that stays cool even on the hottest days. Offers calm, clear waters ideal for families. Numerous water sports and dining options are available nearby.

Coronado Beach, California:

A stunning beach with soft sand and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Popular for surfing and other water activities. Close proximity to San Diego offers diverse lodging and dining options.

Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York:

A picturesque beach with pristine white sand and clear waters. Offers a more secluded and upscale experience compared to other beaches on the list. Known for its beautiful scenery and calm waves.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina:

A vast stretch of beach renowned for its wild beauty and abundant wildlife. Perfect for those seeking a more adventurous and secluded beach experience. Offers opportunities for fishing, surfing, and exploring the natural landscape.

Grayton Beach State Park, Florida:

A beautiful beach with sugary-white sand and emerald-green waters. Offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the surrounding natural areas. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.

South Beach, Miami, Florida:

A vibrant and iconic beach known for its Art Deco architecture, lively atmosphere, and stunning ocean views. Offers a wide range of water sports, dining, and nightlife options.

Carmel Beach, California:

A picturesque beach with stunning natural beauty and dramatic cliffs. Offers calm waters and opportunities for leisurely walks along the coastline. Known for its charming atmosphere and breathtaking scenery.

Bahia Honda State Park, Florida Keys:

A beautiful beach with calm turquoise waters and powdery white sand. Offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, Hawaii:

A beautiful beach with soft white sand and stunning turquoise waters. Offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and relaxing. Known for its stunning natural beauty.

Factors Considered by Dr. Beach in His Rankings

Water Quality:

Dr. Beach meticulously examines water quality reports, focusing on bacteria levels and overall cleanliness. Crystal-clear water is a crucial factor in his rankings.

Safety:

The presence of lifeguards, the frequency of rip currents, and overall safety measures heavily influence his assessment. Beaches with strong safety protocols score higher.

Amenities:

Convenient parking, clean restrooms, readily available concessions, and accessibility features for people with disabilities are essential amenities considered in the ranking.

Environmental Sensitivity:

Dr. Beach prioritizes beaches that demonstrate a commitment to environmental preservation and sustainability. Protected areas and responsible tourism practices are highly valued.

Water testing results and compliance with clean water standards.
Number and training level of lifeguards on duty.
Availability of wheelchair ramps and other accessibility features.
Efforts to protect sea turtle nesting grounds or other sensitive ecosystems.

Planning Your Trip to Dr. Beach's Top Beaches

Best Time to Visit:

Florida Beaches (Clearwater, Siesta Key, Grayton Beach, South Beach, Bahia Honda): Spring and fall offer the best weather and fewer crowds.
California Beaches (Coronado, Carmel): Summer offers warm temperatures, but it's more crowded. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists.
North Carolina (Cape Hatteras): Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) provide comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
Hawaii (Hapuna): Year-round warm weather, but summer can be more crowded and expensive.
New York (Coopers): Summer is peak season; book accommodations well in advance.

Accommodation Options:

Options range from luxury resorts and hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. Consider booking well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Packing Essentials:

Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hat
Swimsuit
Towel
Beach bag
Water bottle
Appropriate footwear (sandals, flip-flops)
Respect wildlife and leave no trace behind.
Support local businesses and contribute to sustainable tourism.

Conclusion

This year's Dr. Beach's top 10 US beaches offer a diverse range of experiences, from secluded escapes to vibrant family-friendly destinations. Each beach boasts unique characteristics, making it a memorable choice for your next vacation.

Call to Action: Ready to experience the best beaches in the US? Start planning your trip to one of Dr. Beach's top 10 beaches for 2025! Find your perfect coastal escape today and discover the ultimate beach paradise. Remember to check for updates and potential closures before traveling.