Subtropical regions attract visitors from all over the world due to their favorable water and air temperatures. Naturally, the state of Florida ranks first. The beaches of this southern state provide a haven from the still-cold spring weather, while the state itself offers mild to hot temperatures.
However, several of Florida’s most well-known beaches have a negative image. Find out which seven Florida beaches are the most hazardous and why you should avoid them during spring break.
New Smyrna Beach
There are a lot of causes for the unusually high number of shark attacks in New Smyrna Beach. The warm water and abundant food supply make this beach an ideal environment for sharks. The beach is also frequented by surfers, who attract sharks with their splashing and action.
Approximately 70 miles north of Orlando, you’ll find New Smyrna Beach on Florida’s east coast. Beautiful beaches and good surfing help make this a hotspot for vacationers.
A less pleasant nickname for New Smyrna Beach is “Shark Attack Capital of the World.” This beach has more reported shark attacks than any other in the country. Sharks with black tips, bulls, and tigers as their namesakes are the most abundant in this region.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Swimmers in a rip current risk being swept out to sea very quickly. They are the leading cause of death for Floridians who have been in or around the ocean. It’s best to keep your cool and swim parallel to the coast if you get caught in a rip current.
About 25 miles south of Miami is where you’ll discover Fort Lauderdale Beach, Florida. Tourists flock there to enjoy the area’s stunning beaches, exciting nightlife, and unique shopping. However, Rip currents can be particularly hazardous at Fort Lauderdale Beach.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Kendall, Florida
Cocoa Beach
The Kennedy Space Center may be accessed from Cocoa Beach. The area’s surf breaks, lively community, and close proximity to Orlando have made it famous. It’s the kind of idyllic seaside community that vacation planners for spring break fantasize about all year long.
Unfortunately, the risk level in Cocoa Beach is 7.57 out of 10. There have been at least 120 hurricanes off the coast of Florida since the middle of the 1800s, but seven shark attacks and seven surfing fatalities have occurred at this precise beach since 2010.
Miami Beach
Approximately 20 miles south of Fort Lauderdale, Miami Beach may be found on Florida’s southeastern coast. Tourists go there to enjoy the area’s stunning beaches, unique Art Deco buildings, and vibrant nightlife. However, there is some risky surf in Miami Beach.
In the winter, the surf at Miami Beach can be very dangerous. Do not attempt to swim in the surf at Miami Beach unless you are an expert swimmer.
View More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Hoover, Alabama
St. Augustine Beach
About sixty miles to the north of Miami is where you’ll find St. Augustine Beach, which lies on the eastern coast of Florida. Although it is a stunning beach with a significant amount of history, visitors should be aware that there are rip currents present there.
If you plan on going swimming in the ocean at St. Augustine Beach, you should be aware that rip currents are the leading cause of fatality in the state of Florida when it comes to incidents involving the ocean.
Final Words
In conclusion, Florida is home to a number of beaches that present a risk to visitors. These beaches are known to have dangerous wildlife such as sharks and rip currents. If you intend to swim at any of these beaches, it is imperative that you are informed of the potential hazards and that you take the necessary safety measures to protect yourself.
