News Summary
Hilton Head Island recorded its second shark bite incident within a week, with a young girl suffering leg lacerations at Coligny Beach. Lifeguards promptly treated her before hospital transport, and her injuries are non-life-threatening. Emergency protocols were enacted, clearing beach waters temporarily to safeguard visitors. Experts note that shark encounters are not uncommon in the area, typically averaging a few bites yearly. Safety measures, including a flag system, are in place to inform beachgoers of potential dangers, ensuring a safer experience at this popular tourist destination.
Hilton Head Island Reports Second Shark Bite in Less than a Week
Hilton Head Island experienced a second shark bite incident over the weekend, highlighting ongoing concerns about marine safety in the area. The latest incident occurred at Coligny Beach around 12:10 p.m. on June 22, when a young girl in her late teens suffered from lacerations to her leg consistent with a shark bite.
The victim was treated on the scene by Shore Beach Service lifeguards before being transported to a local hospital for further medical care. Fortunately, her injuries were classified as non-life-threatening. This incident follows closely on the heels of another shark bite reported on June 17, 2025, where a 12-year-old girl sustained similar leg injuries and was flown to Savannah for treatment.
In response to the recent shark bite incidents, emergency protocols were activated. The waters surrounding Coligny Beach were cleared for half a mile in each direction for approximately two hours to ensure safety for beachgoers. Such measures are routine in the event of shark encounters.
Context of Shark Bite Incidents
While Hilton Head Island typically averages between two to three shark bites each year, there have been instances in the past where the number spiked to as many as six incidents within a season. Experts suggest that blacktip sharks are the most likely species involved in these occurrences, as they are commonly found near shorelines where they feed on schools of fish.
The role of lifeguards becomes critical during these events. The lifeguard team on Hilton Head comprises over 60 trained professionals monitoring 13.5 miles of the island’s beaches, especially during peak tourist season. They are trained to observe signals indicating nearby shark activity, such as fish jumping out of water and diving birds, which can indicate a feeding frenzy.
Safety Measures on the Beaches
In an effort to enhance beach safety, Hilton Head lifeguards employ a flag system to signal water conditions to beach visitors. A purple flag is raised to warn of dangerous marine life, including sharks, while a red flag indicates rough conditions, and a yellow flag signifies moderate conditions. These flags help inform swimmers and beachgoers of potential dangers, promoting awareness and caution while enjoying the water.
Popular Tourist Destination
Hilton Head Island is a popular vacation spot, known for its beautiful beaches and recreational opportunities. In 2024, it was ranked as the No. 1 beach in South Carolina by U.S. News and World Report. The summer beach season attracts numerous visitors, which may lead to increased interactions between humans and local marine wildlife.
As these recent shark bite incidents unfold, local officials and safety personnel continue to emphasize the importance of being mindful of one’s surroundings while enjoying the ocean. Awareness and adherence to safety precautions can help ensure that beachgoers have a safe and enjoyable experience at Hilton Head Island’s renowned beaches.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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12-Year-Old Girl Airlifted After Shark Bite in South Carolina
12-Year-Old Girl Airlifted After Suspected Shark Bite in Hilton Head
Shark Attack Injures Beachgoer at Hilton Head Island
12-Year-Old Girl Airlifted to Hospital After Shark Bite Incident
12-Year-Old Girl Airlifted After Shark Bite on Hilton Head Island
Additional Resources
- ABC News
- Wikipedia: Shark Attack
- Fox News
- Google Search: Hilton Head shark attack
- WJCL
- Google Scholar: shark incidents Hilton Head
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shark Attacks
- People
- Google News: Hilton Head shark bite
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
