Location of New Smyrna and Daytona Beaches
New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach are located in Volusia County on Florida’s east coast. New Smyrna Beach lies about 15 miles south of Daytona Beach, roughly an hour’s drive northeast of Orlando.
Daytona Beach is famous nationwide and sits on the Atlantic coast, known for its wide sandy shores and motorsports legacy. Both towns are part of Florida’s vibrant tourism corridor, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Why Are These Beaches Considered Dangerous?
New Smyrna and Daytona Beaches have been identified as some of the most dangerous tourist spots in the U.S., largely due to a combination of natural hazards and high incident rates. New Smyrna Beach, in particular, is known as the “shark bite capital of the world.”
In recent years, Volusia County, which includes both beaches, has recorded more shark bite incidents than anywhere else in the United States. For instance, in 2021 alone, the area logged 16 shark bites. This startling statistic has raised safety concerns for swimmers and surfers alike.
Moreover, these beach destinations combined face numerous other risks:
Recreational Drownings: The busy waters and popular boating activities increase the risk of drowning incidents.
Boating Accidents: With many visitors engaging in water sports, boating accidents are unfortunately frequent.
Alcohol-related incidents: Vacationers consuming alcohol near water bodies contribute to accidents and injuries.
Extreme Heat: Florida’s intense summer heat poses health risks such as heatstroke or dehydration for tourists unfamiliar with the climate.
The Broader Context for Visitors
While the beaches are stunning with year-round sunshine, clear waters, and beautiful sandy shores, the dangers beneath the surface are real. Sharks are attracted to the area’s abundant baitfish, which leads to higher shark-human interactions. Although shark attacks remain statistically rare relative to the number of visitors, safety protocols, and vigilance are critical when visiting.
In addition, other common injuries in tourist areas of Florida include slips and falls, especially around wet or uneven surfaces in crowded resorts, hotel pools, and theme parks. Pedestrian safety is also an issue in busy tourist towns with high foot traffic and distracted drivers.
Tips for Staying Safe
Visitors to New Smyrna and Daytona Beaches should keep the following in mind to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience:
Swim in designated areas where lifeguards are present.
Avoid swimming at dawn or dusk when sharks are more active.
Follow local advisories and warnings related to wildlife or weather.
Stay hydrated and use sunscreen to protect against Florida’s intense sun.
Be cautious when engaging in water sports or boating, especially under the influence of alcohol.
Always watch your step to avoid slips and falls on wet or uneven surfaces.
New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach in Volusia County stand out as some of Florida’s most popular yet perilous tourist destinations due to their high incidence of shark bites, drownings, boating accidents, and heat-related risks.
While these beaches offer natural beauty and exciting recreational opportunities, it’s crucial for visitors to remain vigilant and informed about the potential dangers to make the most of their visit safely. Awareness and precaution can help balance the thrill of exploring these iconic Florida spots with personal safety.
Sources
(https://nypost.com/2025/08/05/lifestyle/these-are-the-most-dangerous-summer-vacation-destinations-in-the-us-for-2025/)
(https://wflanews.iheart.com/content/2025-03-07-florida-spot-named-among-the-most-dangerous-tourist-attractions-in-the-us/)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnxHrLutYmg&vl=en)
(https://dwpersonalinjurylaw.com/pedestrian-safety-in-tourist-hotspots-keeping-safe-in-floridas-busy-areas/)
(https://www.fmosinstitute.com/common-injuries-in-tourist-areas-what-visitors-should-know)
