Summer is approaching and you might be one of those who are already looking for the best beach spots for your vacation. Be aware that there are very dangerous beaches in the world. A ranking has just been unveiled and lists the ten that it is better to avoid frequenting.
Fraser Island beach, Australia. Credit: bjuerges/iStock
A fine sandy beach, the sun and a view of the sea, what better way to enjoy the holidays? Except that not all beaches are as attractive as they make you think. The fault is a whole host of inconveniences, most of the time large animals whose presence does not mix well with humans.
Do not panic, however, if your destination this summer is Europe. No beach on our beautiful continent appears in the list compiled by The Weather Channel.
Without further ado, let’s answer the question of the day: what are the 10 most dangerous beaches in the world?
The 10 most dangerous beaches in the world according to The Weather Channel
New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Credit: Javier_Art_Photography/iStock
Let it be said, Australia, the United States and South America are hostile territories for vacationers. Currents, whales, sharks, poisonous jellyfish… roam these beaches. It is therefore better to avoid them.
Cape Tribulations, Australia
Australia is a beautiful country but also very dangerous. The different beaches listed in this ranking bear witness to this. The first of these is located in Queensland, in the northeast of the country. Despite its splendid landscapes, the beach is populated by crocodiles, jellyfish and snakes. But there is worse, the cassowary, considered the most dangerous bird in the world with its eighty meter. With its claws and speed of up to 50 km/h, the cassowary can cause serious injuries.
Hanakapiai Beach, Hawaii
On this beach in the Hawaiian archipelago, there is nothing to fear about the small animals that live in the surroundings. It is rather currents of which it is necessary to be wary. These are so dangerous that they can drag anyone out to sea. The site The Weather Channel rightly recalls that 30 people have drowned since a counting system was put in place by the authorities. The currents are taken very seriously and a count of the victims is written on the beach to dissuade the most unaware of the risks incurred.
Gansbaai, South Africa
The nickname alone of this South African beach should dissuade you from setting foot there: the “great white shark capital of the world”. The beach is full of selachimorphs, frightening sharks, which it is better not to cross. However, if you have a taste for risk, underwater expeditions are organized in cages to safely cross these sharks.
Chowpatty, India
This beach located in Mumbai is not famous for its dangerous sea creatures for humans. On the other hand, it has the sad reputation of being known as one of the most polluted beaches in the world. The Easyvoyage site goes even further by indicating that the site should be totally prohibited to the public as the sea and the sand are polluted because of the polluting discharges which contaminate them.
The black sand beaches of Kilauea, Hawaii
Second ranked Hawaiian beach whose main threat is the Kilauea volcano. Unpredictable, the volcano can erupt at any time. The United States Geological Survey states that in the event of an eruption, the temperature of the water, under the effect of the heat, can reach 70 degrees, while the surrounding residences would be in serious danger. .
New Smyrna Beach, Florida
This beach in Foride is nicknamed the “shark attack capital of the world”. Since 2010, 32 shark attacks have occurred at Smyrna Beach, twice as many as at any other beach in the country. But it is not the presence of a few sharks, attracted by the fish brought by the currents, which deters the many surfers present.
Fraser Island, Australia
Fraser Island may be a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it’s scary nonetheless. Apart from the rampaging sharks, the beach is also populated by deadly jellyfish and strong currents. Add to that crocodiles which, one must believe, very rarely attack humans.
Playa Zipolite, Mexico
Don’t be fooled by its exotic name and sublime landscapes. Playa Zipolite is nicknamed “Playa de los muertos” (The beach of the dead). The currents on the beach are extremely powerful and dangerous. They head out to sea before returning to shore. Against the elements of nature, you have little chance, although the authorities recommend to let yourself be carried offshore before returning to dry land, avoiding reverse currents. Easier said than done.
The beaches of the Northern Territory, Australia
The Northern Territory is known for Ayers Rock (Uluru) but less for its beaches. And we understand why when we know that they are particularly populated by box jellyfish, the most venomous species of jellyfish in the world. The box jellyfish has a venom that, if it stings you, can reach your heart, nervous system and skin cells. In case of prolonged contact, cardiac arrest may occur. According to The Weather Channel, 80 people have lost their lives after being stung by the jellyfish which is said to have a very powerful sting.
Amazon River Beaches, South America
The Amazon is populated by dangerous animals and plants. If you take the urge to cross this 6400 kilometer long river, there is little chance that you will escape the threats of piranhas, anacondas, electric eels, black caimans, jaguars, spiders , army ants… Despite everything, if you plan to go to the area, remember to put on long clothes and avoid swimming, unless a guide authorizes you to do so.
