Outer Banks beach cracks top 3 best beaches in US

SIESTA KEY, Fla. — Florida's Siesta Beach has been named America's best beach on an annual top 10 list compiled by coastal science professor Stephen Leatherman, also known as Dr. Beach.

The Florida International University professor ranks best public beaches using criteria sand and water quality, environmental management and amenities.

Siesta Beach's fine, white sand, placid water and clean facilities led to the top spot.

(Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island)

Ocracoke Beach on the Outer Banks grabbed the number three spot while Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island, South Carolina rounded out the top ten.

Here is the 2017 list of top 10 beaches in the U.S., compiled by Florida International University professor Stephen Leatherman, also known as Dr. Beach.

1. Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida

2. Kapalua Bay Beach, Maui, Hawaii

3. Ocracoke Beach, Outer Banks, North Carolina

4. Grayton Beach State Park, Florida Panhandle

5. Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York

6. Coast Guard Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts

7. Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin/Clearwater, Florida

8. Hapuna Beach State Park, Big Island, Hawaii

9. Coronado Beach, San Diego, California

10. Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island, South Carolina.

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Associated Press