Police in Scarborough, Maine confirmed that a 10- 12 foot great white shark was spotted off the coastline near popular beaches. The drone video captured the shark lurking in the waters of a vacation spot in the Northeast. Scarborough’s Marine Resource Officer received a report of what appeared to be a large shark near Richmond Island and Scarborough Beach on Monday, August 11, 2025.
Follow-up observations were conducted, and on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, the Marine Resource Officer obtained drone video footage showing a possible great white shark, estimated to be 10–12 feet in length, off the southern end of Richmond Island in the vicinity of Higgins Beach and Scarborough Beach. Police also said the shark was seen in the area off Pine Point Beach on Tuesday morning.
Town officials said they were alerting the public for ‘situational awareness.’ The Maine Department of Marine Resources says on its website that ‘while the relative risk of a shark encounter is very small, risks should always be minimized whenever possible in any activity on the water.’ It recommends that swimmers stay close to shore, avoid areas where there are seals or schooling fish and limit splashing. ‘Avoid shiny jewelry when in or on the water’ and ‘Avoid swimming at dawn/dusk when lighting is low,’ the Department adds.
While the presence of a large great white shark near popular tourist destinations is concerning, officials stress that the likelihood of an attack is low. This incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and adherence to safety protocols in marine environments. Authorities are urging visitors to remain cautious and follow recommended guidelines to ensure their safety while enjoying the coastal areas.