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While the USA beaches are generally safe for swimmers, we occasionally receive some unwanted guests: jellyfish. When the water temperature is warmer than normal and after heavy eastern winds, these dreaded creatures move towards the beach and cause havoc among beach-goers. While they aren’t usually dangerous, their sting can be very painful. They are normally difficult to see in the ocean and swimmers get stung by getting into contact with their tentacles.

The irony is jellyfish are nice-looking creatures, but if you spot one, do yourself a favor and stay away. Read on to learn more about jellyfish and USA beaches.

What are Jellyfish?

Jellyfish are semi-transparent creatures with lengthy tentacles found in various oceans across the globe. These squashy creatures harm swimmers more frequently than any other marine life. Since a jellyfish sting can be painful even if the critter is dead, it is advisable to avoid them both in the ocean and along the beach.

The most dangerous breed is the Man-of-War, which is usually identified by its looks. The sea nettle is another variety that produces a painful sting. Less potent jellyfish include the moon jelly and the cannonball jelly. Jellies travel in groups, making it particularly easy for beach-goers to identify and avoid them.
USA Beaches Where Jellyfish Lurk

Although fatal stings from a jellyfish are generally uncommon, attacks are quite common. Here are some USA beaches where jellyfish lurk:

Volusia County Beaches, Florida

Jellyfish attacks have previously been reported at Volusia County Beaches, Florida. Most of these attacks occurred at New Smyrna Beach, but the incident isn’t isolated in the area.

Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

Hawaii has a reputation for jellyfish attacks on its southern beaches, including Waikiki, Hanauma Bay and Ala Moana. For instance, 700 box jellies attacked beach-goers in Waikiki in February 2004, with lifeguards reporting around 50 stings in a single day.

Casco Bay, Maine

This area has also experienced attacks by three different types of jellyfish, including the comb, moon jellyfish, and a lion’s mane jellyfish.

Jellyfish Season

While there is no officially recognized jellyfish season in the USA, they are most frequently experienced in the summer months - from June to August - and beach-goers should steer clear of them.

How to Avoid Being Stung

Make sure you swim only at beaches where there are lifeguards. Guarded beaches might also have a warning sign or flag warning you about jellyfish. Some beaches put a purple sign or fly a purple flag to warn beach-goers about dangerous sea life.

Jellyfish will normally get washed up on the seashore, so be sure to avoid touching them.
Studies have shown that 75 percent of deadly stings from a jellyfish can be avoided by wearing stinger suits, which prevents the jellyfish from delivering their poison.

Dive skin can also be used to prevent stinging from various types of jellyfish. Swimmers wearing stinger suits may also be vulnerable to stings in uncovered areas such as face, neck, hands and feet. Therefore, make sure you protect yourself and your loved ones by wearing full body swimsuit whenever you go bathing.

There’s also a special cream available to provide protection against jellyfish stings. This cream also provides UV protection and can be used by both adults and children alike.

Now you know how to deal with jellyfish, which can end up ruining a nice vacation on a beautiful USA beach. Fortunately, these frustrating creatures rarely attack, but at least you know what to do if you encounter them on the beach.