Best Beaches in the USA

Ranking by Dr Stephen Leatherman
Professor and Director, International Hurricane Center
Florida International University
(Not including river/lake beaches, insular areas and freely associated states.)

Year 2011 Best Beaches Ranking: with photos!

Previous National Winners: not included in the 2011 ranking.

Best Walking Beaches: hard-packed sand and gently sloping beaches.

Best Wild Beaches: sparsely populated, limited access, nature abounds.

Best Romantic Beaches: natural beauty, privacy, good sand and water quality.

Best Beaches with Nightlife: nighttime entertainment in the area.

Beach Rating Scale: the 50 factors considered for the ranking.

Highly Recommended

• Buy the book: America's Best Beaches by Dr Stephen Leatherman (Dr Beach)

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