America’s No 1 Beach Moves Off the Map, Not in Hawaii or Florida for First Time in 35 Years
For 35 years, Dr. Stephen Leatherman, known across the country as Dr. Beach, has been compiling an annual list of America’s best beaches. He bases his evaluations on observable and scientific metrics by covering over 50 criteria, such as water purity, sand texture, safety standards, and preservation of natural dunes.
Every year, coastal communities wait to see where they land, and travelers follow these findings to plan their trips. For decades, the top spot almost always went to a stretch of sand in Hawaii or Florida. This year broke that pattern, and no one in beach culture saw it coming.
Meet the Beach That Took the Crown
Image via Wikipedia/User:Gadfium
Coopers Beach in Southampton, New York, climbed to number one and knocked out the usual tropical leaders. Its wide shoreline, soft grainy quartz, and protective dunes earned points across categories.
When visitors step off the shuttle from town, a view that feels removed from the city’s pace greets them. Hamptons homes line the background, lifeguards keep watch, and a concession stand has become famous for fresh food on breezy afternoons. Parking is steep at $50 a day, but locals recommend using the free Circuit shuttle, an electric cart that moves people from village lots to the sand.
Some longtime favorites slipped for reasons tied to nature and infrastructure. Coronado Beach in California, for example, saw water quality issues after untreated wastewater moved north through the Tijuana River and affected ocean conditions. Caladesi Island in Florida is recovering from damage caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024. Lighthouse Beach in North Carolina continues to battle erosion that has uncovered old military structures leaking harmful substances.
A Broader Look at the 2025 Rankings
Image via Unsplash/Simon Hurry
The latest list still shows strong representation from Hawaii with beaches like Wailea on Maui and Poipu on Kauai. Florida appears with Delnor-Wiggins Pass and St. Andrews State Park. Main Beach in East Hampton holds fifth place; it appears that the northeast is stepping up in national conversations about summer destinations.
The surprise is how a New York beach rose above all, considering it’s not a tropical zone. Those who have spent their afternoons lounging with umbrellas at Coopers, though, have a lot of reasons they agree with the ranking. Someone from East Hampton said the air feels different once you step on the sand, cooler and lighter than the inland streets. A woman from Great Neck explained she comes early for a calm atmosphere.
An Invitation for Travelers
The new rankings open a fresh chapter for those looking to plan a summer getaway. Coopers Beach is an East Coast option that holds its own beside well‑known island destinations. Its presence at number one is a reminder that beauty and good management can create standout experiences.
The rankings will change again as repairs are completed and conservation efforts succeed in other places. For now, the spotlight is on a stretch of sand in Southampton, and travelers are already making plans for this new chapter in America’s beach culture.