Hawai‘i’s Hanauma Bay is Named THE Best Beach in America by Dr. Beach

Hawai‘i’s beach is selected as the top beach in America by a Florida professor.

By HONOLULU Magazine Staff

Photo: Courtesy of Dr. Beach

O‘ahu’s most famous snorkeling destination, Hanauma Bay Beach Park was named today as the best beach in America.

Florida International University professor Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, aka Dr. Beach, released his list of the top 10 best beaches in America with the popular landmark in the No. 1 spot.

Leatherman awarded extra credit to beaches that banned smoking. Smoking is prohibited on all Hawai‘i beaches.

Maui’s Kapalua Bay Beach made the No. 3 spot on the list.

Every year, Leatherman releases his list based on 50 criteria, including water and sand quality. He judged beaches with a greater emphasis on environmental management and beach safety. See the full list here.