Myrtle Beach is a popular coastal destination. Its ocean waters naturally host various shark species. This article explores the types of sharks found in the Myrtle Beach area.
Common Shark Species in Myrtle Beach
The waters off Myrtle Beach are home to several frequently observed shark species. Among the most common are Blacktip, Spinner, Sandbar, and Bull Sharks. These species are well-adapted to the coastal environment.
Blacktip Sharks
Blacktip Sharks are frequently sighted near the shore. They typically measure 4 to 6 feet long and weigh 40 to 80 pounds. Characterized by grayish-brown bodies and distinct black tips on most fins, they are known for energetic feeding behaviors, often leaping and spinning out of the water while pursuing small fish and crustaceans. They inhabit warm coastal waters, including bays, estuaries, and shallow areas.
Spinner Sharks
Spinner Sharks are common in the area. They are slender, growing to about 6 feet in length and weighing around 120 pounds. These sharks are named for their unique feeding method, where they rapidly swim upwards through fish schools, spinning and biting, often breaching the water’s surface. Spinner Sharks have a grey-bronze coloration with a white underside and may exhibit black tips on their fins.
Sandbar Sharks
Sandbar Sharks are frequently encountered in Myrtle Beach. They are medium-sized, typically 3 to 6 feet long, recognized by their stout bodies, blunt noses, and a noticeably large first dorsal fin. These sharks are observed in South Carolina waters from April through late November. They inhabit shallow waters, making them a common presence nearshore.
Bull Sharks
Bull Sharks are common in the Myrtle Beach area. They can grow to about 10 feet long and weigh between 200 to 500 pounds. Bull sharks thrive in both saltwater and freshwater, often venturing into shallow estuarine areas. Their presence in South Carolina waters is most prominent from March to October, with peak numbers occurring during July and August.
Less Frequently Encountered Species
Other shark species are less frequently encountered by beachgoers in Myrtle Beach, often preferring deeper waters or specific habitats. These include Tiger Sharks, various Hammerhead Sharks, and Nurse Sharks.
Tiger Sharks
Tiger Sharks are found in South Carolina waters but are generally less common directly off Myrtle Beach. These large sharks range from 10 to 14 feet in length and weigh between 850 to 1,400 pounds. They inhabit coastal and offshore areas. Sightings often occur further offshore.
Hammerhead Sharks
Hammerhead Sharks, encompassing several species, are present but less commonly seen near the immediate shoreline. The Bonnethead Shark, a smaller species, is more frequently found in estuaries and can grow up to 5 feet long. Larger hammerhead species, such as Scalloped and Great Hammerheads, are typically found in deeper waters. The Carolina Hammerhead uses nearshore South Carolina waters as pupping grounds.
Nurse Sharks
Nurse Sharks, which are bottom-dwelling, are present in South Carolina waters but are less active during the day near shore. These sharks prefer warm waters ranging from the intertidal zone. They are primarily nocturnal, resting in deeper waters during daylight and moving closer to shore at night. Nurse Sharks are generally considered docile and are not typically seen by casual beach visitors.
Great White Sharks
Great White Sharks, tracked off the South Carolina coast, are typically found several miles offshore. They utilize these waters during their winter migration, from December to mid-May. Their presence near Myrtle Beach is primarily as part of broader migratory patterns.
Understanding Shark Presence in Coastal Waters
Sharks are an integral part of the marine ecosystem, and their presence in coastal areas like Myrtle Beach is a natural occurrence. The warm, nutrient-rich waters and extensive estuarine systems along the South Carolina coast create a suitable environment for many shark species. These coastal zones serve as important foraging grounds, providing abundant food sources like baitfish and crustaceans. Sharks follow these food sources.
Coastal waters function as migratory routes and nursery areas for many sharks. Species migrate along the Atlantic coast, moving north into warmer waters during summer and southward in colder months. Estuaries and shallow coastal areas in South Carolina are important nursery habitats where juvenile sharks can develop, finding shelter from larger predators and ample food. Water temperature serves as a primary cue for these movements.
Sharks exhibit specific behaviors that influence their proximity to shore. They can be more active during dawn and dusk, which are typical hunting times. Murky water, common in coastal areas due to sediment and tides, can affect their visibility and hunting strategies. Their natural habitat extends to the surf zone, where they search for prey.