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Main Beach in East Hampton Ranked No. 5 in Dr. Beach’s 2026 Top 10 Beaches in America
East Hampton’s Main Beach is the only Northeast beach to make the list, earning praise for its dunes, quartz sand and preserved coastal landscape.
Main Beach has been ranked No. 5 in the 2026 Top 10 Beaches in America list and is the only beach in the Northeast to make the annual ranking.
The list was released by coastal scientist Stephen P. Leatherman aka “Dr. Beach” and evaluates beaches based on 50 criteria, including water quality, sand texture, natural preservation and scenic value.
Towering Dunes, Wide Stretch of Sand, Clear Blue Water
Main Beach was recognized for its wide stretch of grainy quartz sand, clear blue water and towering dunes, along with its carefully preserved shoreline. Leatherman also cited longstanding conservation protections that have helped maintain its natural character for centuries.
He described Main Beach as a rare blend of natural landscape and built environment, set against East Hampton’s village backdrop. The beach is a popular summer destination for visitors and seasonal residents drawn to its quiet, scenic setting.
Leatherman noted that biking is often the easiest way to access the beach during peak summer months due to limited parking.
At No. 1 on the 2026 list is Poipu Beach in Hawaii, followed by St. Andrews State Park in Florida. Hawaii and Florida once again dominate the top of the rankings.
Dr. Beach’s 2026 Top 10 Beaches in America:
- Poipu Beach — Kauai, Hawaii
- St. Andrews State Park — Panama City, Florida
- Caladesi Island State Park (Dunedin/Clearwater, Florida
- Wailea Beach — Maui, Hawaii
- Main Beach — East Hampton, New York
- Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park (Naples, Florida)
- Beachwalker Park — Kiawah Island, South Carolina
- Kaunaoa Beach — Big Island, Hawaii
- Lanikai Beach — Oahu, Hawaii
- Coast Guard Beach — Cape Cod, Massachusetts
