Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, year-round sunshine, and warm ocean waves. It’s a dream destination for travelers looking to relax by the sea or catch some waves. However, not all Florida beaches are equally safe.
Recent reports have named Volusia County beaches, including New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach, among the most dangerous tourist attractions in the United States. The reason? A high number of shark attacks, making these waters riskier than most vacationers might expect.
Why Are New Smyrna and Daytona Beaches Considered Dangerous?
According to LoveExploring, an online travel platform, these two beaches pose a significant danger due to their shark-infested waters. The report states that while the beaches offer ideal weather conditions and stunning landscapes, they are also home to a large population of sharks—especially at New Smyrna Beach, which holds the title of the “shark bite capital of the world.”
In 2021 alone, Volusia County recorded 16 shark bites, the highest in the U.S. In 2022, Florida accounted for 28% of all unprovoked shark attacks worldwide, further solidifying its reputation as a hotspot for these marine predators.
How Common Are Shark Attacks at New Smyrna Beach?
While shark attacks are statistically rare, New Smyrna Beach records more shark bites than any other place in the U.S. This is due to a combination of factors, including:
- A High Number of Surfers: The beach is famous for its great waves, attracting thousands of surfers every year. Unfortunately, splashing and rapid movement in the water can sometimes make people appear as prey to sharks.
- Rich Marine Life: The area is home to many baitfish, which draw sharks closer to shore.
- Geographical Location: The warm waters and ocean currents in this part of Florida make it a natural habitat for sharks.
In July 2022, a six-foot (1.8m) shark bit a man’s foot, leading to an emergency hospital visit. While such incidents are still considered rare, they happen frequently enough to make New Smyrna Beach notorious for shark encounters.
How to Stay Safe While Visiting These Beaches
Despite the risks, many tourists still visit Volusia County beaches each year. If you plan on swimming, surfing, or diving in these waters, here are some safety tips to reduce your chances of a shark encounter:
- Avoid Swimming at Dusk or Dawn: Sharks are more active during these times.
- Stay in Groups: Sharks are less likely to attack larger groups of people.
- Avoid Wearing Shiny Jewelry: The reflection of sunlight can resemble fish scales, attracting sharks.
- Steer Clear of Large Schools of Fish: Where there are small fish, predators like sharks are often nearby.
- Follow Local Warnings: If there are shark sighting warnings, do not enter the water.
Other Dangerous Tourist Attractions in the U.S.
New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach are not the only risky travel spots in the country. Other destinations on LoveExploring’s list of dangerous tourist attractions include:
- Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park – Risk of lava flows and toxic gas exposure.
- Death Valley, California – Extreme heat conditions can be deadly.
- Mount Washington, New Hampshire – Harsh weather conditions make it one of the most dangerous hikes.
- Grand Canyon, Arizona – Fatal falls and dehydration are common risks.
For travelers who love adventure, these places may still be worth visiting—but with caution and proper safety measures.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s Volusia County beaches remain popular among sun-seekers and surfers despite their reputation as shark attack hotspots. While shark attacks are statistically unlikely, they do happen more frequently in New Smyrna Beach than anywhere else in the U.S.
If you’re planning to visit, be mindful of the risks and take the necessary precautions. The beauty of Florida’s beaches is undeniable, but safety should always come first.
For more details on other dangerous travel destinations, check out LoveExploring’s full list.
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