Stephen Parker Leatherman, also known as Dr. Beach, (born November 6, 1947) is an American geoscientist, coastal ecologist, and author.

Leatherman is known for his annual ratings of the top beaches in the United States where he releases a list each Memorial Day weekend since 1991, which is based on 50 criteria scored on a five-point scale.

[4] Stephen Leatherman has produced 20 books and National Academy reports and more than 200 refereed journal articles and technical reports, including articles in both Science and Nature on coastal science and public policy.

[verification needed] Leatherman testified before U.S. House of Representatives and Senate Committees eleven times on a variety of coastal issues.

He also has been an expert witness in lawsuits regarding coastal erosion and beach safety, especially involving rip currents.