Use Safewaters.ai to to view the 7 day shark risk forecast at any beach in the world.
- 83% accurate shark risk forecasts
- Use just like a weather app, but for sharky-ness.
- Great for surfers or beachgoers at beaches with attack history.
According to information from the Global Shark Attack File, created by the Shark Research Institute:
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.
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 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 beaches that are most dangerous for shark attacks in the U.S. are typically located in Florida, California, Hawaii, and the Carolinas.
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: