Earlier this month, another shark bite incident occurred off its scenic coastline, adding to a long list of encounters that have earned the town an unofficial and unforgettable nickname: The Shark Bite Capital of the World.
Whether you’re a local, a surfer, or a sun-seeking tourist planning your next Florida getaway, here’s what you need to know about the recent incident, the statistics behind the title, and—most importantly—how to stay safe in the water.
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Where Is New Smyrna Beach?
Nestled on Florida’s east coast just south of Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach is a laid-back surf town with gorgeous white-sand beaches, charming local shops, and great restaurants.
It’s a favorite for weekenders from Orlando (only about an hour away) and attracts surfers from around the world, thanks to its consistent waves.
But with those waves comes marine life, and that includes sharks.
Why Is It Called the “Shark Bite Capital”?
The nickname isn’t just a media exaggeration. According to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF), New Smyrna Beach consistently leads the world in unprovoked shark bites per square mile.
Volusia County, where the beach is located, reports more shark bites annually than anywhere else on the planet.
But before you cancel your beach plans, it’s important to put these numbers into perspective.
99% of these bites are minor, often more like nips than full-blown attacks.
The majority of incidents involve surfers and swimmers in murky water, where sharks mistake hands or feet for fish.
In over a century of recorded data, there have been very few fatalities associated with these bites.
In other words: shark bites here are real, but rarely serious.
What Happened This Month?
In early July, a 40-year-old surfer was bitten on the foot while paddling out off New Smyrna Beach, one of the area’s most popular surf breaks.
Thankfully, the bite was non-life-threatening, and the individual was treated and released from the hospital the same day.
Witnesses say the shark—likely a blacktip or spinner shark—immediately let go after the initial bite, a typical response when a shark realizes the prey isn’t a fish.
While every incident is alarming, local officials and marine biologists are reminding the public: this kind of encounter, although scary, is typically accidental and avoidable.
Why Does This Keep Happening in New Smyrna Beach?
There are a few key reasons why shark bites are more common here than in other coastal regions:
Surf Conditions
The waves at New Smyrna Beach attract large numbers of surfers, especially near Ponce Inlet. More surfers = more chances for accidental encounters.
Murky Water
The water in this area is often stirred up by tides and waves, reducing visibility for sharks and increasing the likelihood of mistaken identity.
Abundant Bait Fish
Schools of small fish attract sharks close to shore—and if your hands or feet happen to be in the middle of a feeding zone, the risk rises.
Shark Hotspot
Blacktip and spinner sharks are native and abundant here, and they often come in close during feeding or spawning seasons.
Should You Be Worried?
Not really—if you’re smart about it. Statistically, you’re far more likely to be injured by a jellyfish, stingray, or even stepping on broken seashells than being bitten by a shark.
Still, awareness is key. If you’re planning a visit to New Smyrna Beach, follow these tips to stay safe:
Shark Safety Tips for Swimmers & Surfers
Avoid swimming at dawn, dusk, or nighttime when sharks are more active and visibility is lower.
Stay in groups. Sharks are more likely to approach individuals than groups of people.
Don’t wear shiny jewelry—reflections can mimic fish scales.
Avoid areas with bait fish or birds diving into the water (a sign of active feeding).
Don’t enter the water with open wounds—blood can attract curious sharks.
Follow local signage and lifeguard warnings about marine life activity.
If you see a shark, remain calm. Move slowly and smoothly back to shore.
What Is the City Doing About It?
Local officials and lifeguards take safety seriously.
During peak season, flag warning systems are used to alert beachgoers to increased marine activity.
Yellow flags indicate caution, while purple flags specifically warn of dangerous marine life, including sharks.
There’s also increased education and outreach from marine biologists, lifeguards, and organizations like the Shark Watch Program that monitors activity and works to prevent incidents through real-time alerts and research.
What Sharks Are Common Here?
The most common culprits in bites around New Smyrna Beach are:
Blacktip Sharks (3–6 ft): Fast, agile, and typically harmless unless provoked.
Spinner Sharks (4–7 ft): Known for spinning leaps out of the water, sometimes biting accidentally in feeding frenzies.
Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks (2–4 ft): Small and shy, rarely aggressive.
These are not your stereotypical great whites from movies—these sharks are generally uninterested in humans and quickly retreat after accidental contact.
Should You Still Visit New Smyrna Beach?
Absolutely.
Shark bites make the news, but what rarely gets reported are the thousands of safe, memorable experiences people have here every single day.
With charming beachside cafes, local history, epic surfing, and some of the most stunning sunrises in the state, New Smyrna Beach is still one of Florida’s best-kept secrets.
If you’re cautious and aware of your surroundings, the odds of a negative encounter are extremely low.
Final Thoughts: Respect the Ocean, But Don’t Fear It
Calling New Smyrna Beach the “Shark Bite Capital” may sound dramatic, but it’s also a chance to educate, not just alarm.
The ocean is wild, unpredictable, and full of life, including sharks. But with the right mindset and safety practices, there’s no reason to avoid these beautiful waters.
So grab your board, slather on the sunscreen, and enjoy what New Smyrna Beach has to offer.
Just keep an eye out, and maybe leave the shiny bracelets at home.
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Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
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Top Tours in Florida – Viator
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Looking To Get Around In Florida?
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