New Smyrna Beach, located in Volusia County on Florida’s east coast, has been repeatedly named among the most dangerous tourist attractions in the United States—and is often singled out as the most dangerous beach in the country. This reputation comes primarily from its status as the “shark attack capital of the world”, but several other hazards contribute to its notoriety.
Why New Smyrna Beach Is Considered Dangerous
• Shark Attacks: New Smyrna Beach holds the record for the highest number of shark attacks per square mile globally. As of 2024, there have been nearly 277 recorded shark attacks at this beach, far surpassing any other location in the U.S. or the world. While most bites are not fatal, the frequency is alarming—Florida accounted for 28% of all unprovoked shark bites worldwide in 2022, and Volusia County (where New Smyrna is located) consistently leads these statistics.
• Rip Currents and Surf Zone Fatalities: The area is also known for powerful rip currents, which are a leading cause of surf zone fatalities. New Smyrna Beach has recorded at least 12 deaths related to rip currents and surf conditions, making it hazardous for swimmers and surfers, especially those unfamiliar with ocean safety.
• Hurricane Threats: Florida’s east coast, including New Smyrna Beach, is highly susceptible to hurricanes. The region has experienced 126 hurricane landfalls since 1851, and hurricanes can create deadly surf, strong currents, and dangerous debris, further increasing the risks for beachgoers.
Expert Perspectives
While shark attacks often dominate headlines, experts emphasize that hurricanes and rip currents pose even greater risks to tourists. Local authorities and researchers advise visitors to pay close attention to weather warnings, surf conditions, and local advisories before entering the water.
Other Notoriously Dangerous Florida Attractions
Eagle’s Nest Cave: Located in the Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area, this underwater cave system is known as the “Mount Everest of cave diving.” It has claimed over a dozen lives since the 1980s due to its extreme depth and challenging conditions.
Safety Tips for Visitors
Always check local surf and weather conditions before swimming.
Swim near lifeguard stations and heed all posted warnings.
Avoid swimming at dawn, dusk, or in areas with schools of fish, which attract sharks.
Be aware of rip current signs and know how to escape them (swim parallel to shore).
New Smyrna Beach stands out as Florida’s most dangerous tourist attraction due to its exceptionally high rate of shark attacks, frequent rip currents, and vulnerability to hurricanes. While its natural beauty and surf culture attract thousands, visitors should exercise caution and respect the potential hazards that make it infamous.
Sources
[1] https://wflanews.iheart.com/content/2025-03-07-florida-spot-named-among-the-most-dangerous-tourist-attractions-in-the-us/
[2] https://www.fox13news.com/news/most-dangerous-beaches-america-florida-researchers
[3] https://www.loveexploring.com/gallerylist/166392/these-are-the-most-dangerous-tourist-attractions-in-the-us
[4] https://daytripnomad.com/most-dangerous-tourist-attractions/
[5] https://travel.alot.com/themes/the-10-most-dangerous-tourist-attractions–10189
