12 U.S. Beaches With the Most Shark Sightings (And Why They’re Still Popular)

Sharks aren’t always a reason to stay away. In fact, some of the most scenic, swimmable beaches in the U.S. are also known for regular sightings. Whether it’s a haven for surfers, a gathering place for harmless species, or a seasonal hotspot, these beaches prove that beauty and danger can coexist—and that most travelers are willing to dive in anyway.

1. New Smyrna Beach, Florida

This beach is famous for having more shark bites than any other, but nearly all are minor—usually ankle nips to surfers in murky water. The waves are great, the weather’s warm, and lifeguards patrol regularly. Locals don’t panic—they paddle out. It’s one of Florida’s top surf towns, and the risk hasn’t stopped the crowds from coming back year after year to ride those Atlantic swells.

2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

One of the most visited beaches on the East Coast, Myrtle Beach does report occasional shark sightings, especially during peak summer. But considering the sheer number of visitors, incidents are extremely rare. People come for the boardwalk, warm water, and family-friendly fun—not just the sea life. The sharks, mostly small, tend to stay offshore. Swimmers rarely share the surf.

3. Surfside Beach, Texas

Along the Gulf Coast, Surfside Beach is quieter than Galveston but still sees its share of sharks. Most are small species drawn by fishermen and bait schools near the piers. You’ll also find great shelling, soft sand, and wide-open space to stretch out. With shark monitoring and public education, the beach remains a low-risk, chill destination for families and anglers alike.

4. Makena Beach, Hawaii

Makena, also known as Big Beach, is famous for its natural beauty—and the occasional tiger shark sighting. While shark-related warnings do happen, clear signage and patrols make it easy to stay safe. Most visitors know to avoid dawn, dusk, and murky water. The reward? A stunning, wide bay with powerful shore breaks and deep-blue water that feels like a Hawaiian dream.

5. La Jolla Shores, California

Every summer, leopard sharks gather in the shallow waters of La Jolla Shores to mate. They’re harmless and even attract snorkelers eager to swim alongside them. The beach is known for calm surf, great beginner lessons, and scenic cliffs. With lifeguards on duty and marine science centers nearby, it’s a place where sharks don’t just coexist with humans—they’re part of the draw.

6. Jacksonville Beach, Florida

A classic Florida beach town, Jacksonville has had its share of sightings, but most involve small sharks passing through. The area offers a long pier, vibrant boardwalk, and solid surf, especially in warmer months when bait fish draw in marine life. Authorities monitor the waters, and beachgoers rarely alter plans. Shark sightings here are just part of the ocean’s rhythm.

7. Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City has hosted shark tournaments for decades, and sightings do occur—but not usually near swimmers. The boardwalk buzzes with energy, and the wide beaches are packed in summer. Educational signs and local awareness programs keep things safe without sounding alarms. Most of the marine activity happens beyond the break, and tourists soak up the Atlantic without worry.

8. Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts

Shark sightings have increased here in recent years, especially due to a booming seal population. Great whites are spotted near the outer Cape, but monitoring systems, drones, and signage help keep swimmers informed. Despite the tension, visitors still flock for the dunes, lighthouses, and clean waves. It’s a place of raw coastal beauty where risk meets respect.

9. Venice Beach, Florida

Dubbed the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World,” Venice Beach is more about fossil hunting than fin sightings. Still, small sharks occasionally cruise offshore, especially around piers. Visitors search for ancient teeth in the sand with sifters and buckets. The beach itself is calm, shallow, and popular with families—more about treasure hunting than tension.

10. Folly Beach, South Carolina

Just outside Charleston, Folly Beach offers laid-back surf, fishing, and dolphin sightings—with the occasional shark in the mix. The locals take it in stride, and lifeguards keep watch. Most shark activity occurs during peak feeding hours, and simple precautions go a long way. It’s still one of the best beaches in the Southeast for a relaxing, salty weekend.

11. Huntington Beach, California

Known as “Surf City USA,” Huntington is no stranger to shark sightings—especially juvenile great whites in summer. But thanks to marine biologists, drones, and active lifeguards, safety stays high. The waves are some of California’s best, and visitors keep pouring in. The balance between thrill and caution is part of what makes this beach so iconic.

12. Oahu’s North Shore, Hawaii

The North Shore is legendary for its waves—and the wildlife beneath them. With frequent sightings of larger shark species, it’s not a beginner beach. But that doesn’t stop experienced surfers and divers from flocking here. Shark cage tours, reef dives, and local legends add to the mystique. It’s wild, powerful, and undeniably thrilling for those who come prepared.