Each year since 1989, Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, the nation's foremost beach expert as well as Professor and Director of the Laboratory for Coastal Research at Florida International University in Miami, has released a ranking of Americašs Best Beaches.

Known the world over as "Dr. Beach," this guru of sandy shores and romantic vacation spots uses 50 criteria to make his selections, such as consistent and warm, sunny weather, plenty of clean sand on a wide beach, lack of over-development and absence of litter.

Naturally, most of these great beaches are in Florida or in Hawaii (such as Hanalei Beach of "Puff The Magic Dragon" fame). There are some pretty beaches in California, but the water is too cold for swimming even in the south. For more information about Dr. Beach's top beach selections, we highly recommend buying his latest book, America's Best Beaches.

In Dr. Beach's premier Top Beaches in America list (1989), one of our favorite places on earth, Sanibel Island, Florida, was ranked #6 overall.

Best Romantic Beaches

Dr. Beach's exclusive list of Best Romantic Beaches is based on even higher standards:

• natural beauty
• privacy
• good sand and water quality
• amenities such as
  • easy access
  • picnic areas
  • places to walk along the shore

The Best Romantic Beaches list was narrowed down to include only five winners:

As you might guess, Captiva is our personal favorite... for more than 50 reasons. The beach is broad with clean soft sand. There are excellent shells to be gathered each morning. The warm water is perfect for swimming, with never an undertow. Behind the beach are groves of tropical trees filled with singing birds and flowering shrubs. Further back is the bay side, with its calm protected waters and boat docks.

The island is located well off the beaten path, yet it's still easy to get to Captiva. Once there, you'll find every amenity. But you won't find high-rise hotels and crowds on the beach. In fact, a crowd anywhere on Captiva is inconceivable. Nature, beauty, cheerful sunshine, peace and quiet are what make Captiva a top romantic beach!

For general information, check out the Sanibel-Captiva Chamber of Commerce website. Or for Captiva photographs, travel tips, accommodations, and historical info, see www.captiva-island.com.