CLUELESS swimmers were just a few feet away from a shark lurking near one of America’s most dangerous beaches.

To celebrate the Fourth of July hundreds of Americans traveled to Miami Beach in Florida to spend time in the sun.

However, they likely didn’t realize how close they were to a terrifying shark.

It’s unclear what breed was spotted in the water but Miami Beach is known for having several species.

Some sharks that frequent the beach include lemon sharks, nurse sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, and the smooth hammerhead.

Most of the species aren’t known to be harmful to humans, however, Miami Beach is listed as one of the most dangerous beaches in the US.

With the weather getting warmer, US coastlines will see a surge in beachgoers and sharks, which could spell danger.

Just today a swimmer was bitten by a shark at South Padre Island off the southern coast of Texas.

Shocking photos shared on social media showed a chunk of flesh bitten off a swimmer’s calf as blood spread in the water.

“The fact people willing get into the water after seeing them is insane,” a person wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Texas Parks and Wildlife say the swimmer was one of two people bitten during the holiday.

“Details at this time indicate that two people were bitten and two people encountered the shark but were not seriously injured,” they said.

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“The two victims who were bitten were transported to Valley Regional Medical Center in Brownsville where one is being treated and the other has been flown out for further treatment.”

In March, a 14-foot great white shark was spotted near the island, according to radio station KNFM.

The predator was reportedly seen within 100 yards of the beach.

DANGEROUS WATERS

A study by Simmrin Law revealed the most dangerous beaches in the US ranked on several criteria such as shark attacks, hurricane strikes, and surf zone fatalities – such as rip currents.

“While shark attacks often grab headlines, Florida’s beaches rank so high due to the ever-present hurricane risk,” Michael Simmrin told Fox Weather.

“Hurricanes create dangerous rip currents and storm surge, raising the overall risk for beachgoers. With summer approaching and vacations on the minds of many Americans, this study shows the importance of putting safety first when considering a trip to the beach.”

The study found that all the beaches belong in the state of Florida, which has been named the shark attack capital of the world.

The state saw 16 unprovoked shark bites last year, representing 44% of the US in total and 23% of unprovoked bites around the world.

New Smyrna Beach ranks at the top with the highest likelihood of shark attacks.

Experts at Simmrin Law say that more than 185 shark attacks have been recorded at the beach.

At the bottom was Miramar Beach, which has seven surf zone fatalities.

EXPERT WARNING

Miami Beach attracts millions of visitors each year, however, it ranks at four on the top 10 most dangerous beaches.

Experts have warned swimmers what to do to avoid becoming the victim of a possible shark encounter.

First, paying attention to warning signs is always important and Miami Beach has a well-received warning system to alert swimmers of any possible hazards.

This includes the presence of sharks, jellyfish, and other marine life.

Swimmers are also advised to only swim in designated areas that are monitored by lifeguards.

These areas are carefully selected to ensure they’re the safest and lifeguards are specially trained to notice any potential risk.

Beachgoers are also warned to always swim with a buddy as it adds an extra layer of safety.