New York area beaches have seen a notable increase in shark sightings throughout the summer of 2026, prompting temporary beach closures and heightened public awareness. While some reports have described "swarms" of sharks, including suspected bull sharks, experts indicate that the actual number of shark bites has declined compared to previous years.
Authorities have reported 23 shark sightings in the Rockaways since late May, with a concentration of these sightings occurring between July 1 and July 5. This follows a period in 2022 and 2023 when 13 shark encounters were reported along shores near New York City, including five within a three-week span.
Hans Walters, Curator for the Animal Department at the New York Aquarium, suggests that the number of sharks in the area may not have significantly changed. "Sightings probably are [increasing]," Walters stated. "If you look for something, as long as it exists, you're going to find it. We are looking for sharks. We're looking for them because they either terrify us or they fascinate us."
He also pointed to advancements in technology, such as drones and Go-Pros, as factors contributing to increased visibility of sharks. Walters acknowledged that certain species might be extending their seasonal presence in the tri-state area, potentially arriving earlier and staying later due to warming waters. A 2025 study from Stony Brook indicated that some shark species were remaining in the region for up to a month longer than usual.
However, Walters expressed skepticism about the presence of tropical bull sharks in New York waters, suggesting that drone-captured images attributed to this species were more likely other stocky varieties, such as brown sharks. He emphasized that New York's coastal waters are not typically frequented by the large apex predators often associated with warmer climates.
Instead, Walters believes that interactions between swimmers and sharks are less about mistaken identity and more akin to accidental encounters. "What I think is happening is we're getting in the way," he explained. "We're swimming, we're boogie boarding and a shark is in the surf feeding on schooling fish and we blunder into one another."
Lifeguard supervisors and officials are increasingly utilizing drones for shark surveillance, which has led to prompt, temporary closures of swimming areas when sharks are detected near the shore. New York Governor Hochul has expanded the state's drone fleet and trained additional operators to enhance public safety efforts.
To minimize risk, Walters advises beachgoers to avoid swimming near schools of bait fish, which attract sharks. He also recommends refraining from swimming at dusk or dawn, when visibility is reduced. In the event of an encounter, experts suggest striking sensitive areas like gills and eyes. Walters stressed that while the chance of injury is statistically low, awareness of the ocean as a natural environment is paramount.