By MOOK Travel Life Network, Reported by Li Xinyi
Dr. Beach has been releasing his list of the top 10 best beaches in the U.S. every Memorial Day weekend since 1991, and this year is the 22nd edition. Dr. Stephen Leatherman, director of the Coastal Research and Laboratory at Florida International University, uses 50 criteria to determine the top 10 beaches in America. This year, Hawaiian beaches secured three spots in the top 10.
Hawaiian beaches have claimed the No. 1 spot a total of 11 times out of Dr. Beach’s 22 evaluations. (Image courtesy / Hawaii Tourism Authority)
Kahanamoku Beach on Oahu, Hawaii, took second place. It is named after the famous Hawaiian-American swimmer Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, who is also considered the father of modern surfing. The coral reefs near the shore help calm the waves, making the waters gentle and ideal for families with young children—making it a perfect beach destination for kids. Hamoa Beach on Maui ranked fifth, and Waimanalo Bay Beach Park on Oahu came in seventh.
Hapuna Beach on the Big Island was once ranked No. 1 by Dr. Beach in 1993. (Image courtesy / Hawaii Tourism Authority)
Hawaii has claimed the No. 1 spot a total of 11 times in the past 22 evaluations, with the most recent win being Hanalei Bay on Kauai in 2009. However, it seems that once a beach wins the top honor, it’s time to “retire” and make way for others. Beaches that once claimed the No. 1 spot include Kapalua Bay Beach on Maui in 1991, Hapuna Beach on the Big Island in 1993, Lanikai Beach on Oahu in 1996, Hulopoe Beach on Lanai in 1997, Kailua Beach Park on Oahu in 1998, Wailea Beach on Maui in 1999, Kaunaoa Beach on the Big Island in 2000, Poipu Beach on Kauai in 2001, Kaanapali Beach on Maui in 2003, and Hanauma Bay on Oahu in 2004—all of which never reclaimed the top spot again after their victory.
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