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A Real-Time Update on Shark Encounters from a Family Vacaying at the Beach in Surf City, North Carolina
As you read this, I might just be the latest victim of a shark attack. Why? Because I’m currently enjoying a family getaway in the sunny, shark-infested waters of Surf City, North Carolina. Just moments ago, my husband returned from the beach with our kids, reporting that there was an actual shark swimming nearby. Even from the fishing pier, we spotted at least five people posing with the minuscule, would-be death machines they’d caught.
Now, I’m not exactly a math genius, but I can certainly read the headlines, and it appears that a number of unfortunate souls have fallen victim to shark bites in North Carolina over the past month. While other coastal towns have been dealing with aggressive fish that seem to have taken a masterclass in Jaws, Surf City is leading the charge in the shark attack department.
So, welcome to Shark City, as I’ve dubbed it, where two shark bites have already occurred. Given that this place has turned into a hotspot for aquatic predators, WikiHow should probably include a new tip in its “How to Avoid Shark Encounters” guide: “Avoid vacations in Surf City, North Carolina.”
I’m determined to make sure our family leaves this vacation with all our limbs intact, so I’ve been staying updated on the latest news and safety tips. My goal is to prepare my kids for the possibility of an unexpected beachside encounter with a creature from the deep.
I have four kids, ranging from ages 6 to 10, and I want them to be aware of sharks without being so terrified that they can only cry and pee their swimsuits. The responsibility for vigilance falls squarely on my sunburned shoulders.
I’m balancing the need for a fun vacation with the desire not to be devoured. We’ve been splashing around in the waist-deep water (which is apparently not the safest choice), while I pretend to supervise my kids. In reality, I’m scanning the ocean, mentally preparing my reaction plan if a shark decides to join our beach party (screaming and praying, mostly).
So far, I haven’t spotted a shark, but I’ve certainly imagined at least 37 phantom sharks swimming beneath the waves. At one point, I mistook my 10-year-old for a shark and nearly punched her—because you know how sharks feel about being punched.
That moment, along with the time I tried to use my 6-year-old as a shield against a rogue boogie board, made me realize just how much I’m learning about myself during this vacation. I’ve discovered my priorities: I’d probably save the smallest child first (because the others are heavy and I’m not exactly in peak shape). I also realized that I’m not keen on sacrificing myself to a shark to save my kids. I’d rather it be my husband who has to face the jaws of the beast. Don’t worry, I’d make sure he gets to the hospital—thank goodness for good insurance!
It’s too late to rethink this whole parenting situation or to suggest my husband take the kids on this beach trip solo. So, I’m arming myself with online shark survival tips. Spoiler alert: most of them seem unrealistic.
For example, they say: “Punch a shark on the nose, and it will swim away.” Well, while the shark’s nose is indeed sensitive, the odds of a mere mortal like me fending off a shark with such a tactic are about the same as turning into sushi.
Another guiding principle is: “Don’t pee in the water.” I’m not sure why this is bad; perhaps sharks don’t enjoy it when someone uses their ocean as a restroom. Nevertheless, I’ve told my children that the ocean is their designated toilet.
Then there’s the advice to avoid areas with recent shark attacks. Well, I booked this vacation back in January. We can’t just up and choose a luxury resort elsewhere, like the Trumps!
And the wisdom to bring a weapon for shark encounters? The only thing more dangerous than sharks are my kids armed with spearguns. I’m not exactly Annie Oakley when it comes to shooting those things.
Lastly, they say to identify the type of shark. Honestly, if I see a dorsal fin, my brain is screaming “SHARK!” Whether it’s a dolphin or a piece of seaweed, my reaction remains the same.
The reality is that sharks might be drawn to areas where sea turtles nest, and guess what? Those nests are literally every five feet on the beach where we’re staying. Great!
So, while I acknowledge the reality of shark threats and sympathize with those affected by recent attacks, I’m here in Shark City, North Carolina, enjoying time with my family. We’re playing in the sand, indulging in too much ice cream, and sipping cocktails because, honestly, who even knows what day it is? We’re making memories while our kids are still under one roof, and that’s what counts.
In short, we’re keeping an eye out for any toothy sea creatures but are determined to make the most of our time here, Cool Ranch Doritos and all.
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