Spain has traditionally been considered one of the most popular beach destinations thanks to its mild climate and diverse coastlines. However, in recent years, a new trend has captured the attention of both tourists and locals — a rise in shark sightings along the country’s shores.
While this may come as a surprise to many, sharks have always been part of Spain’s marine fauna. However, climate change, rising water temperatures, and intensive fishing are affecting their usual migration routes. As a result, sharks are increasingly coming closer to the shore in search of food or breeding grounds.
The highest number of shark encounters is recorded in the Balearic Islands, especially off the coasts of Mallorca and Menorca. Blue sharks (tintorera) are most commonly seen here; they can reach impressive sizes but are generally not dangerous to humans. These predators usually keep away from beaches, but sometimes can be spotted right at the water’s edge if they stray off course or follow schools of fish.
In some cases, such as on the beaches of Can Pastilla and Cala Nova in Mallorca, as well as near the town of Ciutadella in Menorca, swimming was temporarily restricted after sharks were spotted. In such situations, local authorities quickly implement safety measures: they ask bathers to leave the water, increase patrols, and set up warning signs.
The Valencian Community ranks second in the number of such cases. Here as well, rare but highly publicized incidents involving minor bites, attributed to blue sharks, have been reported. Over the past decades, such events were noted in 1993, 2016, and 2023. Experts emphasize that sharks do not consider humans as prey—most attacks occur due to poor visibility or when a person in a wetsuit resembles the sharks’ usual prey.
In the north of the country, in Galicia and along the Cantabrian Sea coast, sharks can also be encountered, although the water is colder here and there are fewer swimmers. The most commonly seen species in these waters is the basking shark, which can reach up to 10 meters in length and feeds exclusively on plankton. These pose no threat to humans. Additionally, small sharks such as spiny dogfish and spotted catsharks are sometimes spotted in these areas, but they usually stay deep or near fishing zones.
If you spot a shark near the shore, it is important to stay calm and leave the water without sudden movements. Do not panic or try to draw the animal’s attention. Carefully follow the instructions of lifeguards, who in such cases act according to established protocols. In regions where shark sightings are more likely, such as the Balearic Islands, Valencian Community, and Costa Brava, special safety measures are in place: temporary beach closures, sea patrols, and warning flags.
Despite concerns, experts believe that the presence of sharks near the coast is a sign of a healthy marine ecosystem. These predators play an important role in maintaining ocean balance. Their disappearance could have serious consequences for other species. The main threat to sharks is not humans, but overfishing and marine pollution. Biologists note that a far greater danger to nature would be a situation where sharks disappear entirely.
