Just 15 miles south of Daytona Beach lies New Smyrna Beach, FL, a small city with a booming tourist market and an awesome local scene. While ranked in many magazines as one of the best surf towns (both in Surfer magazine and National Geographic), it also happens to be the shark bite capital of the world! This doesn’t stop very many surfers, vacationers, or locals, though.
According to the International Shark Attack File, it is estimated that anyone who has gone for a swim at New Smyrna Beach has been within ten feet of a shark. Whoa! For many, though, the abundance of sharks only adds to the experience (especially for some of the undaunted surfers out there). Jeremy Johnston, a local surfer, caught some spectacular drone footage of a school of sharks just off the coast in New Smyrna Beach. The footage didn’t scare him away, though; it’s actually one of the reasons he loves the area (along with many other surfers). After the video gained more traction online, Johnston clarified that he didn’t want people to be afraid of the beach, instead that his (totally awesome) drone footage “should only show you how amazing and diverse our wildlife is here on the east coast of Florida”. We agree! Just keep your distance and of course always be respectful because the sharks are the true locals there.
With 13 miles of pristine, uncrowded white sand beaches and laid back yet lively local culture (while remaining sophisticated), New Smyrna Beach is a jewel just below-the-radar, but only if you’re feeling adventurous enough!
Overall, it sounds like New Smyrna Beach has a community of people who care about the ocean and its beaches. They want to keep the area clean, safe, and preserve the incredible wildlife in the area; they respect and appreciate the sharks’ territory. The large shark popularity here actually indicates a healthy and balanced marine ecosystem - something we’re all for!
So, for all the fearless and adventurous vacationers out there trying to plan your summer vacation; this sounds like your place! Just don’t forget to pack your Shark OFF shark repellent jewelry; it’s kryptonite for sharks! Would you vacation in New Smyrna Beach, FL, the shark bite capital of the world? Let us know what you think in the comments below! It honestly sounds like a jewel to us.
To learn more about New Smyrna Beach and start planning your next beach vacation, just click here.