Gulf Shores Shark Attacks (2025 Report)

Gulf Shores is a city on Alabama’s Gulf Coast with a plethora of beaches, trails, piers and outdoor activities, making it a perfect spot to vacation.

With the area gaining rapid traction  among tourists, a few common questions have come up, such as ‘Where should we eat?’, ‘What’s the best beach?’ and ‘What about sharks?’

If sharks are raining on your vacation parade, I’m here to ease your mind.

How Many Shark Attacks Happen in Gulf Shores?

Shark attacks are not an occurrence that beachgoers need to fear when visiting Gulf Shores, Alabama, as they are a rarity within the designated swimming areas.

There have been ten reported attacks since 1837. 

What Kinds of Sharks Live/Migrate in Gulf Shores?

Although shark attacks are rare in the area, it is not uncommon to spot a few sharks here and there. Gulf Shores has about 50 different species of sharks, 20-30 of which are typically encountered.

The most common species are the Atlantic sharpnose, spinner, blacknose and blacktip sharks.

Atlantic sharpnose shark: The Atlantic sharpnose is a relatively small species of shark that can reach up to three and a half feet.

They are usually distinguished by their white spots adorning their sides. You will normally spot this shark during warmer months.

Spinner shark: Hence its name, spinners are known for leaping from the waters and spinning mid-air. They have a slender build, reaching ten feet in length. This is another shark that becomes more active during the warmer months.

Blacknose shark: Reaching up to five feet, this smaller shark is known for the black patch on its nose. They tend to hunt smaller fish and will do so in shallower waters near shore.

Blacktip shark: Blacktips can be easily recognized by the black markings on their fins. This is one of the larger species in Alabama, as they reach up to eight feet. They are often spotted leaping from the water near the shoreline.

What Months Are Sharks Most Active in Gulf Shores?

Shark sightings offshore in Gulf Shores will begin to peak in June as they move inshore for more stable waters and to feed on the fish moving through the area.

However, around August and September, a few of the species will retreat offshore as the water is too hot for them.

How to Protect Yourself from a Shark Attack in Gulf Shores

Shark attacks happen under certain conditions.

Sharks are not out to purposely harm humans so understanding their behavior and the conditions that are linked to attacks can help prevent future incidents.

There are several tips that you can keep in mind during your next beach trip to avoid a run-in with a shark.

Dawn and dusk: Shark attacks tend to occur in low visibility conditions when the water is turbid or during dawn and dusk hours. Because of this, during these hours it is best not to swim. Not only can you not see the shark but the shark can’t see you as well. Additionally, this is when sharks prefer to hunt so the combination of this and low visibility does not make for an ideal swimming situation.

Avoid shiny objects: Anything shiny, such as jewelry or sequins, can reflect off the water and resemble fish scales. This can draw the attention of sharks nearby so it is best to leave these objects on shore.

Swim in groups: For general safety reasons and in this case, sharks, it is always wise to swim in groups. Sharks prefer to hunt alone and if you are in a group, it is harder for them to single you out as prey.

Watch for the beach flags: In some areas, Gulf Shores being one, there are beach flag systems put in place to warn visitors of the water conditions. A purple flag indicates dangerous sea life. When this flag goes up, it is in your best interest to remove yourself from the water just in case.

Avoid splashing: It is best to avoid excess splashing when swimming or wading through the water, as high levels of splashing can mimic prey in distress and draw a curious shark towards you.

What to do if You Witness a Shark Attack in Gulf Shores

If you happen to witness a shark attack while in Gulf Shores, or anywhere for that matter, here are a few steps you should take to handle the situation.

During the entirety of this situation, it is best to stay calm to ensure the safety of you, others and most importantly, the victim. 

The first thing you should do when witnessing an attack is to alert everyone in the area. This includes those in the water, those on shore, any lifeguards and emergency services.

You should never enter the water unless you are a trained professional.

The only exception to this is if there is no one else that can or if emergency services are too far out. If you must, please make sure that you are not putting yourself in harm's way.

Once you have assessed it is safe, enter the water, keep your eyes on the shark, move quickly, and if needed, strike the shark in either the snout, gills or eyes.

Once the victim is on shore, assess any wounds, apply pressure and if needed, create a tourniquet for wounds.

During this time, make sure that the victim is kept warm with anything nearby, such as a towel, to avoid sending them into shock.

After wounds are assessed, wait for emergency services to take over the situation.

Conclusion: Shark Attacks in Gulf Shores

If you are thinking about heading to Gulf Shores for a getaway but you’re worried about sharks, I’m here to assure you that there is no need to be overly fearful.

It is still important to keep the tips mentioned in mind for further peace of mind but it is safe to say that you will be able to relax and take in all the area has to offer without the fear of something below the surface ruining your time.