News Summary
Hilton Head Island has witnessed two shark attacks in less than a week, raising safety issues among beachgoers. A teenage girl was injured at Coligny Beach Park, following a previous attack on a 12-year-old girl. Local officials are concerned about rising shark activity and emphasize the need for increased caution among summer visitors. With historical data indicating a rise in shark bites, authorities are urging swimmers to adhere to safety protocols to prevent further incidents.
Hilton Head Island Reports Two Shark Attacks in Under a Week
Hilton Head Island, SC – A second shark attack in less than a week has raised safety concerns for beachgoers on Hilton Head Island. The latest incident occurred around noon on June 22, 2025, at Coligny Beach Park, where a teenage girl suffered non-life-threatening lacerations to her leg. This attack took place close to a lifeguard station and follows a similar incident involving a 12-year-old girl on June 17, 2025.
In the previous attack, the younger girl was airlifted to a hospital after sustaining serious injuries that were also confirmed to be non-life-threatening. Local officials reported that this incident occurred in waters off the south end of the island. The emergence of two attacks within such a short timeframe suggests a concerning increase in shark activity along the coast of South Carolina, especially as more beachgoers flock to the area.
Historical Context and Recent Statistics
In recent years, South Carolina has witnessed a rise in unprovoked shark bites, with 28 reported nationwide in 2024 alone, compared to 14 in Florida. The incidence of shark attacks on Hilton Head contributes to a total of 30 reported attacks in Beaufort County since records began in 1837. Generally, South Carolina experiences an average of about four shark bites annually, with the last confirmed fatality dating back to the 1840s.
Sharks are a common sight in South Carolina waters, with species such as Atlantic sharpnose, blacktip, bonnethead, finetooth, bull sharks, and tiger sharks prevalent in the region. Although shark bites are relatively rare, the recent occurrences on Hilton Head Island underscore the need for heightened caution among beach visitors. According to the International Shark Attack File, sharks tend to be more active during the summer months, particularly when the number of beachgoers increases.
Official Response and Precautionary Measures
Officials have reacted promptly to the attacks, urging beachgoers to exercise heightened caution while swimming. Following both attacks, beach authorities took precautionary measures by asking all swimmers to leave the water due to shark sightings, emphasizing the importance of safety over recreation during this time.
Education and awareness about shark behavior and safety measures are being highlighted as vital steps for reducing the risk of further incidents. Beachgoers are encouraged to learn and adhere to safety guidelines designed to minimize the chances of shark encounters.
Conclusion
As the summer season progresses and visitor numbers rise on Hilton Head Island, it is essential for beachgoers to remain informed and vigilant. Understanding the presence of sharks and the natural behaviors exhibited by these creatures can contribute to safer beach experiences. Officials continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance to ensure both the safety of the public and awareness of the local marine environment.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hilton Head Island Faces Increased Shark Attack Concerns
Shark Bite Incident at Coligny Beach Park on Hilton Head Island
Shark Bites Reported at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Shark Attacks Raise Alarm on Hilton Head Island
Two Shark Bite Incidents Reported on Hilton Head Island
Rising Shark Bite Concerns on Hilton Head Island
Increase in Shark Sightings and Bites at Hilton Head Island
Second Shark Bite Reported on Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island Experiences Two Shark Bite Incidents
Swimmer Hospitalized After Shark Bite on Hilton Head Island
Additional Resources
- ABC News
- Wikipedia: Shark Attack
- Fox News
- Google Search: Hilton Head Shark Attacks
- WTOC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shark Attack
- WSAV
- Google News: Shark Attacks South Carolina
