New Smyrna Beach Inlet is renowned for its consistency as one of the best wedging waves on the east coast of the United States. However, it also holds the distinction of being the shark bite capital of the world. The waters here are teeming with sharks, including spinners, blacktips, and bull sharks. The lineup often serves as a breeding ground for Florida’s shark species, resulting in frequent encounters between surfers and these predators. Reports of surfers being bitten occur on a weekly, and sometimes daily, basis.
Surfers who frequent the area, like Michael Dunphy, are well aware of the risks. They follow specific precautions, such as lifting their feet out of the water upon spotting a shark, paddling away from incoming bait balls, and sitting with their feet on the surfboard to avoid dangling limbs in the water. This last practice is a survival tip endorsed by local surfer Eric Geiselman, who credits it with saving his life when a great white shark attacked him from below in Santa Cruz approximately 15 years ago.
Recently, a drone captured an eventful fall day at New Smyrna Beach, showcasing Dunphy and a group of local surfers. Among them was Charley Hajek, nicknamed “Gnarly,” who had been bitten by a shark only a few weeks earlier. The footage, taken by a Florida-based filmmaker, highlighted the impressive waves and the vibrant surf culture of the area.
The filmmaker shared his gratitude for documenting the surfing community, calling it a privilege to film with Dunphy, a Virginia Beach native who now calls New Smyrna Beach home. He described the location as an unmatched haven for surfers and expressed deep appreciation for being included in these moments.
Beyond the surfing footage, the filmmaker reflected on his personal journey. As a quadriplegic, he emphasized how each project represents a triumph over challenges that could have otherwise sidelined him. By overcoming physical limitations and with the support of others, he has been able to continue creating and sharing the beauty of surfing in this iconic coastal town. For him, these projects are more than videos—they’re powerful reminders of resilience and the joy of storytelling through art.