To the beach

We always look forward to the annual list of America's best beaches, even though we know they'll all be far from home.

The list comes from "beach expert" Stephen Leatherman, known as "Dr. Beach." Leatherman, director of Florida International University's Laboratory for Coastal Research, rates beaches around the country each year. This year, he chose Fleming Beach Park, a mile-long crescent white sand beach on Maui's western shore, as the best of the best.

Leatherman chose the beach for its year-round sunny weather, scenic views, pristine waters and amenities such as showers, grills for barbecuing, snack bar, picnic facilities and ample parking, according to the AP. Fleming, in the resort town of Kapalua, was one of three Hawaii beaches to make the Top 10 list compiled by Leatherman.

Others, from top to bottom, are:
Caladesi Island State Park in Florida
Ocracoke Island in North Carolina
Coopers Beach in New York
Kauai’s Hanalei Beach
Main Beach in New York
Coast Guard Beach in Massachusetts
Coronado Beach in California
Maui’s Hamoa Beach
Barefoot Beach Park in Florida