Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is proud to announce the addition of Greater Hammerhead Sharks to its acclaimed exhibits. With their distinctive hammer-shaped heads and impressive size, these predators now inhabit the popular Dangerous Reef shark tunnel, offering guests an exhilarating opportunity to observe these incredible creatures up close.
The great hammerhead shark is the largest hammerhead species, reaching an average length of 13 feet long and weighing up to 1000 pounds. These solitary giants are recognized by their unique, nearly straight hammer-shaped heads, which help them detect prey hidden in the sand. You can recognize this species in the Dangerous Reef by looking for their unique head shape, called a cephalofoil. Because their eyes are so far apart, this gives them an almost panoramic view of their surroundings — an ability no other shark has.
The addition of Greater Hammerhead Sharks further enhances the diversity of the 750,000-gallon Dangerous Reef exhibit, which mirrors the marine life of South Carolina’s coastline. Visitors have the rare chance to observe this species and learn about its unique behaviors and specialized hunting techniques, making it an unmatched educational experience for all ages.
“We are beyond excited to welcome Greater Hammerhead Sharks to Ripley’s Aquarium,” said Pablo Chavez, General Manager of Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach. “Our mission is to inspire awe and curiosity about the natural world, and these remarkable sharks bring a whole new layer of excitement and learning to our aquarium.
This new arrival also highlights Ripley's ongoing commitment to conservation and education. By showcasing a diverse range of marine life, the aquarium aims to raise awareness about protecting our oceans and the species that inhabit them, like the Greater Hammerhead, which faces significant environmental threats.
Visitors can now witness these incredible sharks swim overhead alongside other awe-inspiring species, including sawfish, Rip the historic sand tiger shark , and thousands of other vibrant fish.
Want to hammer down a time to see these aquatic marvels? Visit Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach!
