Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman (who also goes by the moniker Dr. Beach) director of the Laboratory for Coastal Research at Florida International University, famous for judging the nation’s top beaches, came out with his annual list Thursday morning, 26th May, 2016. Occasional favourite Coronado Beach won the top spot in 2012 and took seventh this year, making it yet again the best beach of America! Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Oahu, Hawaii took the top spot this year. The look and feel of the sand, water quality, weather, facilities and crowds all enter into Dr. Beach’s decision.
Starting this year, extra credit is being awarded to beaches that prohibit smoking and the list of best beaches is beginning anew so all beaches have a chance again of making the list. As “Dr. Beach”, Leatherman has selected the annual Top 10 Beaches since 1991. Fifty criteria are used to evaluate beaches, which include water and sand quality as well as safety and management. Dr. Leatherman is an internationally known coastal scientist who has published 20 books and hundreds of scientific articles and reports about storm impacts, coastal erosion and ways to improve beach health and safety. More emphasis is being placed on environmental management and beach safety. Bonus points are awarded for prohibition of smoking on beaches.
Coronado is an island getaway a stone’s throw from the city. The appealing island community feels like a private enclave wrapped with perfect beaches, including ultra-family-friendly Coronado Beach. Besides those soft sands, the island’s crown jewel is the Hotel Del Coronado, built in 1888, with a remarkable history and starry guest list. Marilyn Monroe spent a good time on the beautiful beach and the famous hotel. The Del also serves a sumptuous Sunday brunch, and the Babcock & Story bar is fine for sipping a craft beer with views of the Pacific.
The diminutive island, reached by the arching Coronado Bridge, is easy to explore by bike. Rent one from Holland’s Bicycles to pedal past elegant oceanfront mansions and tended gardens, or visit Orange Avenue, lined with shops, restaurants, galleries, and theaters. More shops and art galleries are located at Ferry Landing, and restaurants like Candelas on the Bay and Peohe’s have expansive views of San Diego’s downtown skyline across San Diego Bay.
Travel tip: Traffic on the San Diego-Coronado Bridge can get thick, especially on summer weekends. Flagship Cruises will ferry you from Ferry Landing, across the Bay to Seaport Village. Water taxis are available too.
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