Top 10 Beaches With the Most Shark Attacks

When you picture the perfect beach, you probably imagine sun, sand, and turquoise waters. But for some unlucky swimmers, those waters hold more than just fish. Shark attacks are extremely rare overall, but certain beaches have gained a reputation for having more encounters than others. Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 beaches with the most recorded shark attacks — and why they made the list.

1. New Smyrna Beach, Florida, USA

New Smyrna Beach has earned the unsettling nickname “the shark bite capital of the world.” Located in Volusia County, this hotspot for surfers sees more reported shark bites than anywhere else. The reason? Large schools of baitfish attract sharks close to shore, and surfers paddling out often get mistaken for prey. Most bites are minor, but the sheer number of incidents makes this beach infamous. Locals still hit the waves daily, proving just how much people love this stretch of Florida sand.

2. Bondi Beach, Australia

Bondi is one of the most famous beaches in the world, drawing millions of visitors every year. But its popularity comes with a history of shark encounters. In the early 20th century, Bondi saw multiple serious attacks, which prompted the installation of shark nets. Today, the nets and constant patrols keep swimmers much safer, but occasional sightings still stir up excitement. The combination of global fame and shark history makes Bondi unforgettable.

3. Boa Viagem Beach, Brazil

Located in Recife, Boa Viagem is stunning but notorious. Since the 1990s, this beach has seen a spike in attacks, often involving bull sharks. Experts believe changes to the local environment — including a new port that disrupted shark feeding grounds — pushed sharks closer to shore. Warning signs line the beach, advising people not to swim, but many locals still wade in the shallows. It’s a paradise with a dangerous reputation.

4. Second Beach, Port St. Johns, South Africa

Second Beach is beautiful but deadly. This surf spot has seen more fatal shark attacks than almost any other beach in recent decades. The culprit? Aggressive bull sharks and tiger sharks patrolling the waters. The tragic frequency of attacks has made headlines worldwide, and even experienced locals tread carefully here. Despite the risks, the wild, rugged scenery continues to draw adventurous travelers.

5. Reunion Island, Indian Ocean

This island paradise near Madagascar is a dream for surfers — but also a nightmare. Since 2011, dozens of shark attacks have been reported, many fatal. The island has imposed strict bans on surfing and swimming in certain areas. Scientists believe the combination of deep waters, migratory patterns, and limited shark culling has made Reunion a global hotspot for encounters. The scenery is breathtaking, but the waters demand respect.

6. Volusia County Beaches, Florida, USA

Besides New Smyrna, other Volusia County beaches like Daytona contribute to Florida’s shark reputation. Warm waters, thriving fish populations, and year-round surfing attract both humans and sharks. Most bites happen when swimmers accidentally bump into smaller species in murky water. Statistically, Florida tops global shark attack lists almost every year, and Volusia County leads the state.

7. Coffin Bay, South Australia

With a name like Coffin Bay, it almost feels destined to appear on this list. Known for its rugged coastline and oyster farms, this area also happens to be great white shark territory. These apex predators cruise the waters hunting seals, and occasionally mistake humans for prey. Diving operators offer shark cage experiences nearby, which adds to the bay’s reputation as both thrilling and dangerous.

8. Dyer Island, South Africa

Dyer Island is home to the world-famous “Shark Alley,” where tourists flock to see great whites in action. Seal colonies attract huge numbers of predators, and while most encounters involve boats and cages, there have been attacks near shore. Shark Alley has become a hub for marine research and tourism, but it’s also a reminder that humans are visitors in shark territory.

9. Maui, Hawaii, USA

Maui’s stunning beaches and snorkeling spots draw travelers from around the globe. But in recent years, Maui has also reported the most shark attacks of any Hawaiian island. Many involve tiger sharks, which patrol the reefs where snorkelers and surfers love to explore. Local authorities regularly issue warnings after sightings, but the allure of Maui’s waters keeps people diving in. The balance of beauty and risk makes it unforgettable.

10. Long Beach Island, New Jersey, USA

This quiet barrier island made history in 1916 when a series of shark attacks terrified the East Coast. These attacks inspired Peter Benchley’s novel Jaws and the blockbuster movie that followed. While modern safety measures have made the beach far safer, the legend lives on. Tourists still visit curious about the history, and Long Beach remains an iconic location in shark lore.

🦈 Don’t be scared!

Shark attacks are headline-grabbing but rare. Your odds of being bitten are still lower than being struck by lightning. These beaches aren’t just known for their shark encounters — they’re also stunning travel destinations. With respect for the ocean and local safety rules, you can enjoy them without fear.

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