For over 22 years, Steven Leatherman has reviewed and ranked beaches worldwide, earning himself the nickname Dr. Beach. Leatherman is a professor at Florida International University and a costal expert who also spends time educated people on rip currents. Beaches are evaluated on 50 criteria, including "overall environmental quality and scenic aspects of the surrounding area," as he told National Geographic.
His website lists past winners, going back to 1991. The award-winning beaches are all located in the United States, with Hawaii and Florida each claiming several titles. This year, the top 10 beach destinations include many states in the country. The list includes locations in New York, Massachusetts, North Carolina and South Carolina. Yes, Florida and Hawaii are included, as well.
The big surprise, though, is that this year's winner is Coronado Beach, located in San Diego, California. This is the first time California has clinched the top spot on Dr. Beach's list. Leatherman describes Coronado Beach as "popular for swimmers, surfers, sunbathers and beachcombers." Skim boarders and walkers will like this destination for its flatness. Leatherman says the beach and the area are family-friendly. He writes, "Families arrive in the morning, toting umbrellas, beach towels and picnic coolers for an all-day stay."
Besides being flat -- prompting Leatherman to advise seeing the sites in town via bycicle -- the town and the beach are quaint, featuring "classic Victorian architecture." The beach is approximately 1.5 miles long, as is the town, and is accessible by pedestrian ferry or water taxi from San Diego.
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