Long Island beach ranked No. 5 in America for 2026

Main Beach in East Hampton has been ranked the No. 5 beach in the United States for 2026 by coastal expert Dr. Stephen Leatherman, known as “Dr. Beach,” continuing its status as one of the nation’s premier shorelines. The annual list highlights the beach’s natural beauty, clean water and classic Hamptons setting, placing it among top destinations across Hawaii, Florida and beyond.