3 fantastic locations for shark encounters

Much like the holidays and your special day, one of the summer's greatest events happens just once a year.It's a week dedicated to all things sharks—a celebration we crave, even if we don't fully deserve it. To honor this, these 3 spots are ideal for spotting sharks.

Guadalupe Island, Mexico

Fly into: San Diego, CA

Stay in: Ensenada, Mexico

Shark sighting: Great White Shark

For the best experience, it's advisable to book a shark-diving tour for this adventure. After landing in San Diego, take a shuttle across the border to Ensenada, Mexico. From there, you'll charter a boat to Guadalupe Island. With your scuba gear ready, you can cage dive in the waters inhabited by the most formidable predator: the Great White Shark. Hungry after your thrilling experience? Return to Ensenada and explore Calle Primera (First Street) for a bite to eat.

Bimini Island, Bahamas

Fly into: Port Royal Bimini

Stay in: Bimini

Shark sighting: Bull Shark

Bimini Island is just 50 miles off the coast of Florida. Enjoy the Bahamian sun while swimming in the stunning turquoise waters. This paradise was a favorite fishing destination of literary icon Ernest Hemingway, who often chartered boats across the Gulf Stream. For those without scuba certification, numerous tours allow you to snorkel and observe these magnificent deep-sea predators. After a day of aquatic adventure, visit the Healing Hole, a mineral-rich spring located in East Bimini’s mangrove swamps for some rejuvenation.

Seal Island, Cape Town, South Africa

Fly into: Cape Town

Stay in: Cape Town

Shark sighting: Great White Shark

Seal Island is renowned as one of the few places globally where you can witness Great Whites breaching (exciting for you, but not so much for the seals). Enjoy this breathtaking natural spectacle from afar or opt for a cage diving tour to get up close (but really, don’t shake fins). Afterward, indulge in your own feeding frenzy by tasting some local South African wines.

*This post was first published in July 2017 and updated in July 2022.