The beaches in Spain where you are likely to spot a shark

With summer just beginning, the first shark alerts have already caused a stir among bathers in Spain

Beachgoers are normally concerned with little more than stinging jellyfish and slimy seaweed but this year, with summer not yet begun, paddling has taken a more ominous turn already. Spain is not typically known for shark-infested waters, but the recent closure of a Gran Canaria beach due to a two-metre shark swimming near the shore has sparked curiosity and a touch of anxiety among bathers.

This early summer sighting adds to the handful of shark encounters recorded during the summer of 2023, leaving many to wonder if these majestic predators are making a comeback.

While popular culture often portrays sharks as menacing creatures, the reality is that Spain is not a hotspot for shark sightings or incidents. However, it is important to remember that sharks do inhabit all parts of the ocean, including Spanish waters. The Mediterranean, in particular, is home to around 80 species of sharks, who tend to frequent these warmer waters during spring and summer.

Among the species found in the Mediterranean are the blue shark, dogfish and the aptly named sand tiger shark. Even the bull shark and the legendary great white shark have been known to roam these seas. But that’s no reason to be afraid to dip your toe in the water, as sharks typically steer clear of areas with high human activity.

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According to the experts, shark sightings are more commonly reported in the Cantabrian Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, where colder waters and less crowded beaches create a more inviting environment for these fascinating creatures. So, while there is no precise way to predict shark appearances, your chances of spotting one are slightly higher on the beaches along the Cantabrian Sea, the Atlantic coast and the Galician coasts.

That being said, there has been a recent uptick in shark sightings on the Mediterranean coasts, capturing the attention of both locals and holidaymakers alike. The shores of Granada, for instance, have become a hotspot for these curious creatures, although they generally keep their distance from busy beaches.

When it comes to shark attacks, Spain boasts an impressive safety record. According to the specialised website International Shark Attack, there have only been thirteen recorded shark attacks in the country since record-keeping began, and none of them resulted in any fatalities.

So, as you pack your beach bag and slather on the sunscreen, remember that while sharks may be a source of fascination and intrigue, they are just one part of the rich marine life that calls Spain’s waters home.

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Image: Pixabay

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