Hanalei Bay Beach takes the number one spot in the 19th annual Top 10 Beaches ranking produced by coastal expert Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, Director of Florida International University’s Laboratory for Coastal Research.  Hanalei Bay is a spectacular white crescent-shaped sand beach that is considered by many residents and visitors alike to be the most beautiful beach setting in Hawaii.  The two-mile long strand is lined by palm trees with a backdrop of waterfalls and mountain peaks that range up to 4,000 feet high.  One of the best views of the beach is from the Princeville Hotel, located on the high bluff to the east.  The other end of this wide coral sand beach is anchored by a high lava point that extends into the ocean.  This panorama has been the inspiration for many paintings and photo shoots.