Beaches with most shark attacks as Americans pay tribute to 'Jaws' and activist weighs in

With Friday marking the 50th anniversary of the iconic film "Jaws," many Americans are paying tribute to sharks even as reports of recent attacks grab headlines.

On Tuesday, a swimmer was bitten on the leg while in South Carolina, according to Hilton Head Fire and Rescue. 

A nine-year-old girl was also recently bitten while snorkeling off Boca Grande, Florida. 

Florida beaches have logged the highest number of shark attacks, with 942 unprovoked bites since 1837.

Hawaii has 199, while California has 141, ISAF has noted.

Activist Julie Andersen, founder of the New York-based Shark Angels, told Fox News Digital that recent attacks do not indicate an increase in sharks in the oceans. 

"The rise in sightings is due to a mix of factors: more people in the water, better technology, shifting ocean conditions, and in some cases, successful conservation," she said. 

She added, "With drones, GoPros and social media, encounters that once went unnoticed are now widely shared. Sharks have always been there. We're just seeing them more often."

Andersen said that in places like California or Cape Cod, Massachusetts, white shark populations are rebounding "thanks to decades of protection." She said their return is a sign of healthier oceans.

The American Association for the Advancement of Science estimates about 274,000 sharks are killed globally each day.

"Based on trends over the past few years, shark behavior is clearly shifting," she said. 

"From the West Coast to the East Coast and even parts of Mexico, sightings are increasing in places like California, Cape Cod, the Carolinas, Florida, and Baja."

Andersen said, "New Smyrna Beach in Florida holds the title of 'shark bite capital of the world.' Located in Volusia County, it consistently tops global charts for shark encounters."

She also said that "most of these bites are minor, often from migrating small blacktip sharks mistaking toes and fingers for small bait fish. Many don't even require stitches."

One daring endurance athlete is paying a special tribute to "Jaws" by swimming 62 miles around the island of Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts - where the film was set.

Lewis Pugh said his goal is to raise awareness of the need to protect sharks and to change public perception of the mighty fish.

Not sure what to do if you encounter a shark in the water?

The folks at Shark Angels shared some insights to consider.

1. "If a shark comes near you in the water, stay calm. Do not panic."

2. "Make and maintain eye contact. Sharks are opportunistic predators and prefer an easy target. When they know you see them, they are much less likely to approach."

3. "Avoid flailing, yelling or trying to hit the shark. Quick, erratic movements can trigger a response."

4. "Instead, move slowly and steadily. Keep your eyes on the shark and calmly head toward shore or safety."