3 Types of Sharks in Rhode Island
Rhode Island's coastal waters host several shark species, but most are not commonly seen from shore. The most frequent visitors include the spiny dogfish, smooth dogfish, and sandbar shark. Start by learning to identify these three, as they account for the vast majority of local encounters.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 7, 2026.
- 8
- species recorded
- June, July, August
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
3 types of sharks recorded in Rhode Island
3 shark species have a verified observation record in Rhode Island across sharks (superorder Selachii), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
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2
3
Plus 13 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
110 verified observations on iNaturalist of shark have been recorded in Rhode Island, most often in June, July, August.
When shark are recorded in Rhode Island
Rhode Island's coastal waters host several shark species, but most are not commonly seen from shore. The most frequent visitors include the spiny dogfish, smooth dogfish, and sandbar shark. Start by learning to identify these three, as they account for the vast majority of local encounters.
1. What are the most common shark species in Rhode Island?
The three sharks you are most likely to see in Rhode Island are the spiny dogfish, smooth dogfish, and sandbar shark. Spiny dogfish are small, gray, and have a white belly with a distinctive spine in front of each dorsal fin. Smooth dogfish look similar but lack spines and have a more uniform gray color. Sandbar sharks are larger with a tall first dorsal fin and are often found near the bottom in bays and estuaries.
2. How can I tell a spiny dogfish from a smooth dogfish?
The easiest way is to check for dorsal fin spines. Spiny dogfish have a sharp, venomous spine at the front of each dorsal fin. Their skin is also rougher, with small tooth-like scales. Smooth dogfish have no spines and a smoother feel. Additionally, spiny dogfish have a white spot on their side behind the gills, while smooth dogfish lack that spot.
3. Where and when are sandbar sharks most often noticed?
Sandbar sharks prefer shallow coastal waters, especially around sandbars and inlets. In Rhode Island, they are most common from June through September. Look for them in places like Narragansett Bay, Block Island Sound, and near Point Judith. They hunt for fish and crabs near the bottom, so they are often seen basking near the surface on calm days.
4. What other shark species might I see in Rhode Island waters?
Occasionally, you might spot a blue shark or shortfin mako offshore. Blue sharks are sleek with a deep blue back and white belly, while makos are faster and have a pointed snout. Thresher sharks with their long tail are rare but possible. For a full list of species, see ouranimals/sharkpage.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
5. Are there any dangerous sharks in Rhode Island?
The risk from sharks in Rhode Island is extremely low. The most common species (dogfish and sandbar) are not considered dangerous to people. Great white sharks pass through occasionally, but sightings are rare and they stay mostly offshore. For more details on safety, checktypes of sharks in Rhode Island.
6. What is the best way to spot sharks from shore?
Look for fins cutting the water, especially during dawn or dusk. A calm, clear day with light wind makes spotting easier. Use polarized sunglasses to reduce glare. From a boat, watch for seabirds diving, which often indicate fish schools that attract sharks. Always keep a safe distance.
7. Can I take home a shark memory? Check out these shark art prints
If you want to bring the ocean home, consider a minimalist shark print. TheWhale Shark Wall Artis a black and white canvas that fits modern decor. AHammerhead Shark Giclee Printadds a bold silhouette. For something colorful, theColourful Abstract Shark Canvasstands out.Check Price and Availabilityfor the whale shark print.
Hammerhead Shark Giclée Print: Minimalist Black and White Underwater Ocean Art
From Etsy - SellerCheck Price and Availability
Black and White Shark Ocean Depth Modern Coastal Decor – Pictures Framed Canvas Print Wall Art IDEA4WALL Size: 24" H x 36" W Format: Natural Floater
From WayfairCheck Price and Availability
8. Where can I find more shark gear and totes?
After spotting sharks, many visitors like to browse related keepsakes. Ourtote bagssection includes shark-themed designs perfect for a day at the beach. They are sturdy and make great gifts. You can also explore our fullRhode Island wildlife guidefor more local species.
9. Are there any shark tours or guided trips in Rhode Island?
Yes, several charter companies offer shark fishing or sightseeing trips, especially out of Galilee and Newport. These trips typically run from June to September. For a do it yourself approach, try kayaking in calm bays with clear water. Remember to follow local regulations and always respect marine life.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Frequently asked questions
1. What are the most common shark species in Rhode Island?+
The three sharks you are most likely to see in Rhode Island are the spiny dogfish, smooth dogfish, and sandbar shark. Spiny dogfish are small, gray, and have a white belly with a distinctive spine in front of each dorsal fin. Smooth dogfish look similar but lack spines and have a more uniform gray color. Sandbar sharks are larger with a tall first dorsal fin and are often found near the bottom in bays and estuaries.
2. How can I tell a spiny dogfish from a smooth dogfish?+
The easiest way is to check for dorsal fin spines. Spiny dogfish have a sharp, venomous spine at the front of each dorsal fin. Their skin is also rougher, with small tooth-like scales. Smooth dogfish have no spines and a smoother feel. Additionally, spiny dogfish have a white spot on their side behind the gills, while smooth dogfish lack that spot.
3. Where and when are sandbar sharks most often noticed?+
Sandbar sharks prefer shallow coastal waters, especially around sandbars and inlets. In Rhode Island, they are most common from June through September. Look for them in places like Narragansett Bay, Block Island Sound, and near Point Judith. They hunt for fish and crabs near the bottom, so they are often seen basking near the surface on calm days.
4. What other shark species might I see in Rhode Island waters?+
Occasionally, you might spot a blue shark or shortfin mako offshore. Blue sharks are sleek with a deep blue back and white belly, while makos are faster and have a pointed snout. Thresher sharks with their long tail are rare but possible. For a full list of species, see ouranimals/sharkpage. See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
5. Are there any dangerous sharks in Rhode Island?+
The risk from sharks in Rhode Island is extremely low. The most common species (dogfish and sandbar) are not considered dangerous to people. Great white sharks pass through occasionally, but sightings are rare and they stay mostly offshore. For more details on safety, checktypes of sharks in Rhode Island.
6. What is the best way to spot sharks from shore?+
Look for fins cutting the water, especially during dawn or dusk. A calm, clear day with light wind makes spotting easier. Use polarized sunglasses to reduce glare. From a boat, watch for seabirds diving, which often indicate fish schools that attract sharks. Always keep a safe distance.
8. Where can I find more shark gear and totes?+
After spotting sharks, many visitors like to browse related keepsakes. Ourtote bagssection includes shark-themed designs perfect for a day at the beach. They are sturdy and make great gifts. You can also explore our fullRhode Island wildlife guidefor more local species.
9. Are there any shark tours or guided trips in Rhode Island?+
Yes, several charter companies offer shark fishing or sightseeing trips, especially out of Galilee and Newport. These trips typically run from June to September. For a do it yourself approach, try kayaking in calm bays with clear water. Remember to follow local regulations and always respect marine life. See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Keep exploring
More places to see shark
More wildlife in Rhode Island