The mass of beachgoers and eagle-eyed lifeguards are now gone from the Cape, but white shark season is only starting to peak.
That’s the message from shark researchers and public safety officials, as some people still head to the beach during the final days of summer.
The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy’s Sharktivity app was popping off with shark alerts over the weekend, with apex predators being spotted close to shore.
One great white shark, for instance, was seen only 20 yards off Truro’s Longnook Beach. Each summer and fall, sharks hunt for seals close to shore.
“If you’re heading to the beach to take advantage of the quieter times now that summer crowds are gone, you still need to be ‘Shark Smart’ because the sharks are still here,” shark researcher John Chisholm posted.
“Download the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy #Sharktivity app to stay informed,” added Chisholm, who’s an adjunct scientist at the New England Aquarium.
While shark bites on humans are rare, a fatal incident occurred in Wellfleet in September of 2018.
As shark activity remains high in September and October, Cape Cod National Seashore is reminding beachgoers that lifeguard services have ended for the season.
“Be aware sharks hunt for seals in shallow water,” Cape Cod National Seashore wrote about staying “Shark Smart” this fall. “Avoid areas where seals are present. Stay close to shore. Swim, paddle, kayak, and surf with others—never alone.
“Avoid murky or low-visibility water,” the Seashore added. “In emergencies, call 911. Emergency call boxes and bleeding-control kits are available at beaches.”
Last year, September had the second most shark detections off the Cape — with 44,662 great white shark detections, according to the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy’s Logbook.
October had the most shark detections with 55,187, and August had the third most detections with 40,725.
Originally Published: September 8, 2025 at 5:28 PM EDT