Whitefish Point, Lake Superior, near Paradise, Mich. Photo: ptofnoretrn77 via Flickr.

Stephen Leatherman, a.k.a. “Dr. Beach,” this year will begin compiling a list of the top 10 Great Lakes beaches. Letterman has rated national beaches since 1991, but this is the first year that our freshwater beaches will be in the spotlight.

Beach managers and representatives nominated roughly 30 beaches. Miami-based Leatherman used the Internet to research the beaches.

The rating system is down to a science – Leatherman has 50 criteria to determine the best beaches. They are based on physical factors during vacation/holiday season such as sand softness, rip currents, domestic animals and off-road vehicles.

Leatherman will announce the Great Lakes list July 1.