When it comes to beaches, Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman is a certified expert. The scientist, author, professor, and director of the Laboratory for Coastal Research at Florida International University also goes by the nickname Dr. Beach. For more than 30 years, he’s been using his expertise in all things beaches to evaluate and rate coastal areas around the world—and each year, he releases his ranking of America’s Best Beaches.
Using his 50-criterion system—which takes into account things like sand softness, number of sunny days, rip currents, and water color—Dr. Beach determined that Coopers Beach in Southampton, New York, earned the top spot. Just a 2.5-hour drive from Manhattan, depending on traffic, the Long Island destination surpassed its previous No. 2 position, which it took in 2024.
In his explanation for why Coopers Beach ranked so highly this year, Dr. Beach credited its location, white sand, towering dunes, and access via public transportation. “Coopers Beach is… shielded from the cold Labrador currents in the beautiful village of Southampton. Coopers Beach is hundreds of yards wide, made of grainy white quartz sand,” he stated. “The beach is backed by large sand dunes covered by American beach grass interspersed with extravagant mansions.”
He also added that while “parking is expensive,” visitors have the option to ride free with Circuit. The electric public cart transports between six and eight people at a time from Southampton to Coopers Beach.
Of course, summer is primetime on Coopers Beach, but early fall is equally appealing, especially if you prefer a beach without crowds. “The best time of the year to visit is in September when the summer tourists are gone, and the ocean water is still warm,” Dr. Beach shared.
To really up the ante on a relaxing getaway to Coopers Beach and Southampton, book a room at Shou Sugi Ban House in nearby Water Mill—just give yourself plenty of time to enjoy both the wellness retreat and the beach. Before you head to the beach, pop into Southampton for some good old-fashioned Hamptons shopping, dining, and celebrity spotting.
Grabbing coffee at The Golden Pear is a must, and it doesn’t hurt to stock up on sweets from The Fudge Company and to-go sandwiches from Cheese Shoppe. If you’re feeling extra festive, the Southampton outpost of Sant Ambroeus should hit the mark with its pastries and gelato.
During your Hamptons vacation, you may also want to stop by another Dr. Beach-favorite. Main Beach in East Hampton came in at No. 5 in his ratings, thanks to its “beautiful, clean, and clear blue water.”
