Ocracoke and Hatteras Island ranked in the top 10 United States Beaches


The best beaches for 2003, according to rankings compiled by Stephen P. Leatherman, a top coastal expert and a professor at Florida International University in Miami, known by the nickname "Dr. Beach."

1. Kaanapali, Hawaii

2. Fort De Soto Park, Fla.

3. Oracoke Island, N.C.

4. Hanalei Bay, Hawaii

5. Caladesi Island State Park, Fla.

6. Main Beach, East Hampton, N.Y.

7. Makalawena Beach, Hawaii

8. Hanauma Bay, Hawaii

9. Cape Florida State Park, Fla.

10. Cape Hatteras, N.C.