Well, Dr. Steven Leatherman has done it again.  For those unfamiliar with Dr. Leatherman, he is also known as Dr. Beach.  His yearly rankings can mean a windfall of additional tourist dollars for the beaches that make his list.  Last year, Ocracoke Island was rated as the #1 beach in America.  Ocracoke was the first beach not in Hawaii or Florida to make the ranking. 

     Dr. Beach’s list for 2008 was just released.  The Outer Banks again made the top 10.  Cape Hatteras was recognized as the #8 beach on his list.    While we did not reach #1 again, it is still great for the beaches here to be named. 

     If you take the time to visit Dr. Beach’s site, you will see his personal preference for the Outer Banks.  He says, “North Carolina has over 300 miles of beach to choose from, but my favorite is the Outer Banks.”  He goes on to say, “This is the most impressive chain of barrier islands in the world.”  This truly says something about this beautiful chain of barrier islands. 

     For Outer Banks home owners he goes on to say, “The Carolina coast is family oriented, and the best way to enjoy it is to rent one of the many seaside cottages or share a bigger house with friends and family. The emphasis is on family beach activities and backyard barbecues.”  You can’t get a better recommendation for renting a beach house then from the man called Dr. Beach. 

     I may be a little biased but I completely agree with him.  The Outer Banks is one of the most amazing coasts in the entire world.   For those that have never been here, they truly are missing out.

If you would like to see the complete list: Dr. Beach 2008 list

Here is another article from an Outer Banks Blog on Hatteras being named by Dr. Beach.