When most of us think of places where great white sharks might converge, we think of locations such as Australia, South Africa, Mexico, or even California. However, a new study has found that one of the largest seasonal gatherings of white sharks is right off the coast of Massachusetts in Cape Cod.

Great white sharks are "most popular" in specific coastal hotspots where cold, nutrient-rich currents attract their primary prey, such as seals and sea lions. As of 2026, the top destination for great white shark tourism (specifically cage diving) is Gansbaai and False Bay in South Africa, often called the "Great White Capital of the World." Another major hub is Guadalupe Island in Mexico, known for having the clearest water for underwater viewing (though access is sometimes restricted for conservation). In the United States, the Farallon Islands off San Francisco and the waters of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, have seen a massive surge in popularity due to a rebounding seal population. Finally, South Australia (specifically the Neptune Islands) remains a world-class site for seeing large, mature "whites." While they are found globally in temperate waters, these four regions are where the "shark-watching" industry is most developed, offering the highest probability of a face-to-face encounter with these apex predators.