Dr. Beach names Siesta Beach No. 1

Dr. Beach announced to the world today what Sarasotans and millions of tourists already know — Siesta Beach is the No. 1 beach in the nation.

“It’s an idyllic place,” said coastal scientist Stephen Leatherman, aka Dr. Beach, whose annual beach rankings have become legendary.

Siesta Beach is often ranked on his list. It moved up from second place last year.

Leatherman gave it high marks for its sugary sand, wide beach, safe water, cleanliness, amenities and overall beauty.

Virginia Haley, president of the Sarasota Convention and Visitors Bureau, has often said she doesn’t mind that Siesta Beach was always a runner-up on Dr. Beach’s rankings. That’s because the winner is always retired from the list.

“You can’t be Miss America twice,” said Leatherman.

Contact Robin Roy at [email protected].