A well-known beach expert has released his ranking of the best beaches in the United States in 2024, and two in Florida, both on the west coast, made the list.
Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, also known as “Dr. Beach,” is a professor and director of the Coastal Research Laboratory at Florida International University.
The name ‘Dr. Beach’ was gifted to him by his students at the University of Maryland, College Park, when he taught a course called ‘Waves and Beaches.’
Dr. Beach developed 50 criteria to rate each beach and has been compiling annual lists since 1991.
Caladesi Island State Park in Clearwater secured fourth place, while Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples took the No. 8 spot.
Dr. Beach told Keynote USA6 his reasoning behind these West Coast beaches being in the top 10 in 2024.
“Both state parks are located on barrier islands on Florida’s Gulf Coast and have super-fine, white sand. The water is warm and waves are generally measured in inches; they are safe for sunbathers and swimmers unless a storm is brewing. storm.” Dr. Beach explained. “Beaches should have three qualities: clean water, clean sand and beach safety, and these two beaches excel.”
This comes almost a year after Dr. Beach commented on the age-old question: Which Florida beaches are better: those on the west coast or the east coast?
The FIU professor pointed out the difference in the sand in July 2023.
“The sand on the west coast is softer and whiter, which keeps it cool even when the sun shines on it. On the east coast, the sand is rougher and darker, which can make it uncomfortable to step on,” he said. Dr. Beach. saying.
When surveying beaches for his 2024 list, he noted that he arrives unannounced and does not accept tips for compiling this list.
“The purpose is to reward beaches for maintaining and improving the environmental quality of their beaches,” Dr Beach said.
Check out the full list of Dr. Beach’s Top 10 Beaches for 2024 below:
Keynote USA
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