Florida is known as being many things—beautiful, pristine, exciting, and family-oriented. But another way many people can identify Florida is with quite a few shark stories. In fact, there is one small city in Florida that has been dubbed the “Shark Bite Capital of the World” for the second year in a row. Before you start imagining sharks swimming rampant and churning waters filled with fins, think again.
Volusia County, Florida has been dubbed the “Shark Bite Capital of the World” with the town of New Smyrna Beach being a primary source of the problem.
Flickr Dock Drumming
However, when you think about New Smyrna Beach, try not to imagine a place that is plagued with problems.
Flickr Joe Flood
One of the primary reasons New Smyrna Beach tops the list is because it has the most surfers in Florida, which means people are constantly in and out of the water.
Flickr Kevin N. Murphy
There are many aspects of New Smyrna Beach that should not be discounted, just because of the high shark bite rate.
Flickr Daniel Piraino
The town itself is charmingly quaint, a perfect beachside place to spend a long weekend or handful of days throughout the summer taking in some rest and relaxation.
Flickr Rusty Clark 100K Photos
You can score some phenomenally fresh seafood at restaurants in town, such as Uncle Chicken’s, Ocean’s, Off the Hook Raw Bar and Grill, and Blackbeards Inn.
Flickr Jinjiang Liang
The best part about so many of the restaurants in New Smyrna Beach is that you can find waterfront dining options with impeccable views.
Flickr Rusty Clark 100K Photos
Spend the afternoon strolling Apollo Beach, with miles of white sand and picture-perfect cresting waves.
TripAdvisor K C
Or take your furry friends to Smyrna Dunes Park, enjoying a bit of sand and surf together.
TripAdvisor Jean-Paul88
Strolling along Flagler Avenue Park can be quite dreamy as well, with ocean views and the smell of saltwater in the air.
TripAdvisor newsmyrnasuite
Explore the nearby Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Museum for a quick and insightful story lesson.
TripAdvisor management
There is so much to do in New Smyrna Beach—don’t let the title of “Shark Bite Capital of the World” fool you.
Flickr Gary J. Wood
This place is as charmingly beautiful as any other town in Florida, you’ll just have to see it to believe it.
Flickr Steve Harwood
While the title may put some people off to exploring New Smyrna Beach, we just wanted to remind you of how beautiful this small town is. However, do be careful when out in the ocean and always make sure to stay aware of your surroundings on our Florida beaches, no matter how wonderful they are.
Flickr Dock Drumming
Flickr Joe Flood
Flickr Kevin N. Murphy
Flickr Daniel Piraino
Flickr Rusty Clark 100K Photos
Flickr Jinjiang Liang
TripAdvisor K C
TripAdvisor Jean-Paul88
TripAdvisor newsmyrnasuite
TripAdvisor management
Flickr Gary J. Wood
Flickr Steve Harwood
Have you ever visited New Smyrna Beach? Share with us your favorite parts in the comments section! Also, if you’re looking for other stunning places to get your swim on in Florida, check out this underrated natural spring.
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