Am I being paranoid or do we have to worry about sharks in Isle of Palms and Emerald Isle waters? We're staying beachside on IOP and then visiting friends on Emerald Isle this month, and it seems that lately I've been hearing a lot about sharks, jellyfish and men o'war problems in those areas. If that's the case, even though being on the ocean is a rare treat for us midwesterners, we may decide to stay somewhere closer to Charleston with a nice stress-free pool.

Thanks for any info!

The likelihood of being struck by lightning is much greater. Are they there, sure. Are they going to bother you, not likely. We just returned from NC beaches a few weeks ago & the guy fishing next to us caught about a 4' sand shark. They have no interest in humans. Jellies are a bigger concern if there is a big influx, but that is easily detectable.
I guess to answer your question directly - yes, you are being paranoid.

I go to Sullivans, right next to IOP.

You are paranoid. Sharks don't like people. They like fish. I go in the ocean every day and I've never seen a shark. So relax.

Jellyfish come and go with currents. Most are just cannonballs.

Can't help with Emerald Isle, but I love it there. I grew up vacationing at Atlantic Beach.

I know it's hard for y'all. But it's the ocean! Go and enjoy it.

I grew up going to the beach in SC, and I only ever saw sharks when we were surf fishing (caught quite a few over the years, including a hammerhead once, which was cool). Even so, they were all under 3-4 feet. If you're worried, don't swim or frolic in the waves close to those who are fishing.

Agree with above. In 2010 there were 4 shark attacks in all of South Carolina. Compare that to the thousands (millions?) of swimmers in SC waters last year. It's just not going to happen to you.

Jellyfish can be a concern (but not the cannonball ones you see on the beach), but as also mentioned above, you will have plenty of warning if they are around.

Go and have fun at the beach. Sunburn is the most realistic threat.

How appropo to ask this question during "Shark Week" ...... if you're outside US, or don't get Discovery Channel, can probably watch on their website.

Also can check on this site >>>

http://sharkattacksurvivors.com/shar...forum.php?f=46

Sorry ..... overlooked Discovery Channel link .....
http://dsc.discovery.com/tv/shark-week/

Thanks all for confirming the fact that I am indeed paranoid -- in this case it does make me feel better! I know that statistically they pose very little threat, but I gotta say... even 4 shark attacks in one year seems like 4 too many. In any case, I'll be sure to stay away from people fishing and stay out of the water at dusk... I actually do love the water, so don't want this fear to stop me from going in.