Dr. Beach's Top 10 U.S. Beaches for 2010

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "It's not revolutionary, but a small Moleskine notebook is my one travel must-have. It's great for noting things you want to remember and it takes up hardly any space in your bag."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Japan. I'd love to take a month off and visit the cities, temples, and countryside. I'm fascinated by the country's juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern ambitions."

Travel Motto: “Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” –Terry Pratchett

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Window."

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Each year, Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman (a.k.a Dr. Beach), Director of Florida International University’s Laboratory for Coastal Research, releases his list of the 10 best beaches in America. Dr. Leatherman ranks beaches based on 50 individual characteristics, including the color and texture of the sand, strength of undertow, and whether or not pests, such as mosquitoes, are a persistent problem.

But what you really want to know is which beach came in first. So without further delay, here are the top 10 beaches for 2010:

10. Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne, FL

9. Hamoa Beach, Maui, HI

8. Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island, SC

7. Coast Guard Beach, Cape Cod, MA

6. Kahanamoku Beach, Waikiki, HI

5. Main Beach, East Hampton, NY

4. Cape Hatteras, Outer Banks, NC

3. Coronado Beach, San Diego, CA

2. Siesta Beach, Sarasota, FL

1. Coopers Beach, Southampton, NY

Now, living in a beach community myself, I have to say I’m pretty fond of my local beaches, though I’m sure I’m not alone in thinking my favorite beach is the best. What do you think? Do you have a favorite beach? Have you been to any of the beaches in the top 10? Perhaps you’re heading to the beach this weekend? Leave a comment below with your thoughts. Thanks!

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