United States Shark Attacks

According to information from the Global Shark Attack File, created by the Shark Research Institute:

The United States Shark Attack Overview

The United States has experienced a high frequency of shark attacks along its extensive coastlines, primarily due to the popularity of beach activities and favorable coastal conditions for marine life. As of 2024, there have been 38 shark attack bites in the U.S., with Florida leading with 17 incidents, followed by 6 in Texas, 6 in North Carolina, 3 in California, and 2 in South Carolina. Notably, California recorded a fatal shark attack in Monterey Bay, adding to the rising concerns on the West Coast. Florida remains a hotspot, particularly in Volusia County (often called the "Shark Attack Capital of the World") and Brevard County. Warm waters, a high population of marine life, and year-round beachgoers contribute to Florida’s increased shark encounters. Other beaches that report frequent attacks include New Smyrna Beach (FL), Cocoa Beach (FL), Galveston Island (TX), and Surfside Beach (SC). On the East Coast, summer and early fall witness a spike in attacks, while California and Texas face heightened risks during their respective peak beach seasons.

Shark Attack Species

The species most commonly involved in shark attacks in the United States include the Great White Shark, Bull Shark, and Tiger Shark—all apex predators that are highly adapted to coastal environments. Great White Sharks are often found along the coasts of California and the Northeast, with their presence intensifying around regions like Cape Cod, Massachusetts, due to seal populations. Great Whites are responsible for most of the serious or fatal attacks, given their size and hunting techniques. Bull Sharks, which tolerate both saltwater and freshwater, are particularly common in Florida's coastal waters and are known for their aggressive nature. Tiger Sharks are frequently spotted in Hawaiian and Florida waters, known for their indiscriminate feeding behavior, which occasionally leads to human encounters. Other shark species that are less commonly involved but still present in U.S. waters include Hammerhead Sharks, Blacktip Sharks, and Spinner Sharks. While not all encounters with these species result in attacks, their presence in coastal areas can increase the risk of incidents, particularly during peak feeding times or when visibility is low.

Shark Attack Time of Year & Observations

Shark attacks in the United States show a seasonal pattern, peaking in the warmer months from late spring to early fall, which coincides with increased beach activity. Most attacks occur in the afternoon when more people are in the water, especially in areas popular for surfing, such as Southern California, North Carolina’s Outer Banks, and various beaches in Florida. Seasonal migrations of prey species like seals, fish, and sea turtles bring sharks closer to shore. Coastal areas with high fishing activity or cloudy waters can see an increase in shark presence, as these conditions often attract sharks. Beaches like New Smyrna Beach and Cape Cod, MA, have been observed to have significant shark presence due to abundant prey and ideal hunting grounds for species like the Great White. Many shark encounters are also reported following tropical storms or hurricanes, as changes in water temperature and salinity affect shark movements.

The Most Dangerous Beaches for Shark Attacks in the U.S.

The beaches that are most dangerous for shark attacks in the U.S. are typically located in Florida, California, Hawaii, and the Carolinas.

• New Smyrna Beach, FL – Known as the “Shark Attack Capital of the World,” New Smyrna Beach records one of the highest numbers of shark encounters globally.
• Volusia County, FL – This area has the most reported shark attacks in the U.S., attributed to the high number of surfers and abundant marine life.
• Cocoa Beach, FL – Another Florida hotspot, Cocoa Beach, has seen several incidents, especially during peak surfing seasons.
• Cape Cod, MA – Rising sightings of Great Whites have made Cape Cod a high-risk area, particularly in regions where seals are prevalent.
• Honolulu, HI – Hawaiian beaches, especially those around Oahu and Maui, are frequent locations for Tiger Shark encounters.
• Galveston Island, TX – Known for a moderate risk of encounters with Bull Sharks, Galveston sees regular attacks, especially during warm weather and holiday seasons.
• Outer Banks, NC – With a record of various incidents, this area’s beaches draw both Tiger and Bull Sharks.

How to Stay Safe From Shark Attacks

To stay safe from shark attacks in the United States, consider using SafeWaters.ai, a real-time resource for shark attack risk assessments. SafeWaters.ai uses predictive AI technology to provide insights into shark risk levels at beaches worldwide, empowering you to make informed choices about where and when to enter the water. Here are some additional safety measures to help reduce your risk:

• Avoid swimming at dawn, dusk, or night, as these are peak feeding times for many shark species.
• Stay in groups, as sharks are more likely to target lone individuals.
• Avoid wearing shiny jewelry or bright colors, which may resemble fish scales and attract sharks.
• Do not enter the water with open wounds or if you are bleeding, as sharks can detect blood from far distances.
• Stay clear of areas where there are signs of baitfish, diving seabirds, or fishing activity, as these often attract sharks.
• Avoid excessive splashing, which can mimic the movements of distressed prey and attract sharks.
• Heed beach warnings and safety flags and stay informed about recent shark sightings or alerts.
  By combining these precautions with SafeWaters.ai’s insights, you can significantly reduce your risk of a shark encounter while enjoying the waters in the United States.