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Top US Beaches for 2026: Hawaii and Florida Lead the Rankings

KVIA•Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 5:00 AM•CNN Newsource

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According to coastal scientist Stephen P. Leatherman, known as 'Dr. Beach', Poipu Beach in Hawaii has been named the best beach in the United States for 2026. This annual ranking evaluates beaches based on 50 criteria, including water quality and cleanliness. Florida's St. Andrews State Park follows in second place, while notable mentions include Caladesi Island State Park and Wailea Beach. The list highlights the dominance of warm-water beaches, with colder regions often excluded due to less inviting temperatures. Several beaches were removed from the list this year due to pollution and environmental issues, including Coronado Beach in San Diego, which has been affected by sewage contamination from the Tijuana River. Dr. Beach has been compiling this list since 1991, emphasizing the importance of beach quality for recreational enjoyment.

Key Details: • Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii is ranked No. 1 for 2026. • St. Andrews State Park in Florida is ranked No. 2. • Coronado Beach in San Diego was excluded due to sewage issues. • Leatherman has visited all 650 major public recreational beaches in the US.

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Cape CodPanama CityMauiKauaiClearwaterStephen P. LeathermanPoipu BeachEast HamptonDunedin

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