Best time to travel to California

Great White Sharks in California

As ocean waters warm up, white sharks start their annual migration between Mexico and Southern California

Best time: August–September

Great White Sharks

In the history of California, there have been just nine fatalities caused by great white sharks. This statistic goes to show that shark attacks are extremely rare. Nevertheless, white sharks are the only species you can meet in California waters that pose danger to humans so it's important to be aware.

White sharks are most abundant in the waters along the west coast of the Baja California peninsula in Mexico. Scientists estimate their population at about 300. When the ocean warms up near the U.S. Californian coast, sharks often migrate north along the coastline. Their peak numbers are registered in California in August and September but sharks can be spotted during the rest of the year as well.

White sharks are seen most often near the Channel Islands, at Point Conception as well as near Santa Barbara beaches, Santa Monica Bay, Long Beach, Huntington Beach, and near San Clemente. In the north, they show up near The Farallon Islands, Año Nuevo Island, and Tomales Point.

White sharks are often feared because of their impressive size. Adult species weigh about 4,000–5,000 lbs (1-3 t). They feed on fish and marine mammals. Young elephant seals are their main prey in California. It's believed that great white sharks live up to 70 years.

Practical info

Where can great white sharks be found in California?

Great white sharks are most abundant in the waters along the west coast of the Baja California peninsula in Mexico. Their migration brings them north along the Californian coastline and can be spotted at popular locations such as The Farallon Islands, Año Nuevo Island, and Tomales Point, among others. Show more

What is the best time to spot great white sharks in California?

The peak time to spot great white sharks in California is during August and September, when the ocean warms up and they migrate from Mexico's Baja California peninsula to the Californian coast. White sharks can still be spotted throughout the year, usually at or near popular tourist destinations such as The Farallon Islands and Guadalupe Island. Show more

Are shark attacks common in California?

Despite concerns, there have only been nine fatalities caused by great white sharks throughout California's history, representing a low risk level with rare attacks. This suggests that shark attacks are extremely rare and demonstrate the low risk of a shark attack, considering California's large population and high visitor numbers. California's beautiful coastline is still a great place to visit, including prime locations for observing great white sharks, such as the Channel Islands and Santa Barbara beaches. Show more

What is the estimated population of great white sharks near Mexico's west coast?

Scientific reports estimate the great white shark population near Mexico's Baja California peninsula at around 300 individuals, who migrate each year to the Californian coast, usually arriving between August and September. Although white sharks are few in number, they are a healthy population of large predators and are still a compelling sight to see. Show more

What is the primary prey of great white sharks near California's coast?

Great white sharks' primary prey along California's coast are young elephant seals and other marine mammals, as well as fish. Adult white sharks are known to grow to be four to five thousand pounds, mostly living alone to avoid any competition for prey. Despite their size and strength, the risks of a shark attack are low, so visitors shouldn't hesitate to enjoy the beautiful coastline and view these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Show more

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Last updated: by Olga Valchyshen