Are There Sharks in Cyprus? (And Are They Common)

Imagine floating in the crystal-clear waters, soaking up the sun, when suddenly, a thought creeps into your mind:

“Wait, are there sharks in Cyprus?”

It’s a totally normal question, especially if you’ve watched one too many shark documentaries.

The short answer? Yes, there are sharks in Cyprus. But should you be worried about them? Not really.

Here’s what you need to know.

How Common Are Sharks in Cyprus?

Yes, Cyprus has sharks, though not the kind that’ll make you second-guess your swim.

This place isn’t exactly a hotspot for scary, movie-style sharks, and the chances of running into one while swimming are incredibly low.

As it turns out, the waters around the island are actually a bit too warm for the big, dangerous predators you see in movies.

Here are a few shark species found in the area:

Blue Sharks (Prionace glauca): These sleek swimmers are some of the most common sharks in the Mediterranean. They tend to stick to deeper waters and are generally not considered a threat to humans.
Shortfin Mako Sharks (Isurus oxyrinchus): While they’re a little larger, makos are typically shy and stay well away from beaches. They’re not a problem unless provoked, which, let’s be honest, you’re not planning on doing.
Thresher Sharks (Alopias vulpinus): Characterized by their long, whip-like tails, these elegant creatures are harmless to people. In fact—they’re more interested in small fish and squid than anything else!
Dogfish: Dogfish are a group of small, bottom-dwelling sharks that tend to keep to themselves. As a result, they’re often spotted by fishermen or deep-sea divers, rather than by beachgoers. Not that we’re complaining.

Uncommon sharks in Cyprus include Hammerheads, Big-Nosed Sharks, and Angel Sharks, which have also been classified as endangered.

Now, you may be wondering, “Okay, but are there any sharks that could be dangerous?”

Again, probably not.

For example, while the Great White Shark gets all the headlines, it’s extremely rare in Cyprus.

If one were to pass through, it should be far from shore and focusing on its natural prey.

Shark attacks in Cyprus are practically unheard of.

The only shark attack ever recorded was back in 1901, near Larnaca, and it was a highly unusual event.

Since then, there have been zero reported shark incidents!

When you compare it to other countries, such as Greece, it’s clear that Cyprus is one of the safest places to swim in the Mediterranean.

RELATED: Are There Jellyfish in Cyprus?

Paphos beaches are also known to be safe from sharks.

When diving or snorkeling in Coral Bay and the Blue Lagoon, you’re more likely to see a sea turtle or a school of fish than a shark.

However, when sharks do appear, they’re usually small, non-aggressive types.

Head east to Protaras and Ayia Napa, and the situation is pretty much the same.

Here too, most sharks remain far offshore, as the warm, shallow waters near the coast aren’t ideal for them.

Of course, that doesn’t mean a small dogfish won’t make its way in every now and then.