Florida’s Shark Attack Hotspots: Top 5 Beaches to Watch Out For

Florida, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, boasts numerous beaches stretching over hundreds of miles. Known for its sunny weather and stunning coastlines, Florida is also notorious for its shark attacks.

According to the International Shark Attack File, Florida sees an average of 25 shark bites per year, earning it the title of the shark bite capital of the world. This article explores the top five Florida beaches with the most shark attacks.

How Many People Were Bitten By Sharks Last Year in the USA?

Last year, there were 47 confirmed shark attacks in the United States. This number is part of the 73 confirmed shark attacks worldwide. Of these, Florida accounted for 28 attacks, followed by Hawaii (6), South Carolina (4), North Carolina (3), California (3), Georgia (2), and Maryland (1).

Florida’s Top 5 Counties With The Most Shark Attacks

Certain counties in Florida are more prone to shark attacks than others. Here are the counties with the highest numbers:

Volusia County

Volusia County leads the state with a staggering 337 shark bites recorded since 1882. Home to New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach, and Ponce Inlet, this county saw 17 bites last year, none of which were fatal.

Brevard County

According to the source, Brevard County, home to Cocoa Beach, has recorded 155 shark bites since 1882. Last year, it saw two shark attacks. Cocoa Beach is particularly known for repeated shark encounters.

Palm Beach County

Known for its sandy beaches and golf courses, Palm Beach County has recorded 81 shark bites since 1882. With an area of 2,383 square miles, it is a popular destination for beachgoers and golfers alike.

Duval County

Located in northeastern Florida, Duval County has a population of nearly one million. It has recorded 46 shark bites over the past 140 years, although none were reported last year.

Martin County

Martin County, located in the Treasure Coast region, has recorded 45 shark attacks since 1882. The county is renowned for its biodiverse lagoon ecosystem.

Summary of Florida Counties With the Most Shark Attacks

• Volusia County: 337 since 1882
• Brevard County: 155 since 1882
• Palm Beach County: 81 since 1882
• Duval County: 46 since 1882
• Martin County: 45 since 1882

What Beaches in Florida Have the Most Shark Attacks?

Certain beaches in Florida are more likely to experience shark attacks than others. Here are some of the most notable:

New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach, located in Volusia County, has recorded nearly 200 shark attacks since 1882. This beach city, covering an area of 37.92 square miles, tops the list with 32 shark attacks reported in 2023 alone.

Daytona Beach

Also in Volusia County, Daytona Beach has seen about 46 shark attacks. Known for its NASCAR Headquarters and car races, Daytona Beach is a popular spring break destination dubbed “World’s Most Famous Beach.”

Ponce Inlet

Ponce Inlet, a town with a population of just over 3,200 as of 2020, has recorded close to 40 shark attacks. This town is also home to Florida’s tallest lighthouse.

Cocoa Beach

Located in Brevard County, Cocoa Beach has seen over 30 shark bite incidents. This town is a favorite among tourists, contributing significantly to the total bites recorded in the county.

Florida Keys

The Florida Keys, an archipelago in Monroe County, have recorded over 20 shark bites since 1882. Known for its lovely beaches and water activities like scuba diving and sportfishing, the Florida Keys is a hotspot for both tourists and residents.

Where Did Florida’s 28 Shark Attacks Happen Last Year?

Last year, Florida recorded 28 shark attacks, exceeding the average. These attacks were spread across nine counties: Volusia (17), Brevard (2), Miami-Dade (2), St. Lucie (2), Broward (1), Martin (1), Manatee (1), and Palm Beach (1).

Why Does Florida Get So Many Shark Attacks?

Florida’s vast number of beaches and water-loving residents contribute to its high number of shark attacks. With 15 species of sharks inhabiting its waters, increased human-shark interactions are inevitable. Despite this, the odds of dying from a shark bite are extremely low, at 1 in 3.75 million.

How Many People Have Died From Shark Bites in Florida?

Since 1882, there have been nearly 900 unprovoked shark bites in Florida, with less than 40 resulting in fatalities. Most of these incidents are attributed to requiem sharks, although great white sharks are known to attack humans more frequently.

When Are Sharks Most Active in Florida?

According to the ISAF, most shark bites in Florida occur in August and September, typically around 2:00 to 2:59 PM. Fifty-one percent of these attacks happen during waterboarding, 39 percent during swimming, 6 percent during body surfing or horseplay, and 4 percent during free-diving or snorkeling. Notably, annual drownings far outnumber shark fatalities.

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Should You Worry About Getting Bitten by a Shark?

The likelihood of encountering a shark is low, so it shouldn’t deter you from visiting the beach. However, avoid entering shark-inhabited waters if you are bleeding, as sharks can detect blood quickly. Also, refrain from activities like spearfishing that may provoke sharks. Always follow beach safety guidelines and swim in designated safe areas.

Summary of 5 Florida Beaches With The Most Shark Attacks

Florida is considered the shark bite capital of the world. Here are the top five beaches with the most shark attacks:

1. New Smyrna Beach: 200 since 1882
2. Daytona Beach: 46 since 1882
3. Ponce Inlet: 40 since 1882
4. Cocoa Beach: 30 since 1882
5. Florida Keys: 20 since 1882