Denpasar. Several sharks spotted swimming off the coast of Bali’s upscale Nusa Dua resort area have sparked widespread attention on social media, but local authorities said the animals pose no danger to tourists.

State-owned tourism developer Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) said the sharks seen in the waters near Nusa Dua were likely harmless reef sharks and that beach activities remained safe.

“We have not found any situation causing panic or disturbing reports from tourists,” Nusa Dua General Manager I Made Agus Dwiatmika said on Sunday.

Videos circulating online showed several shark-like fish swimming near the coastline of the popular beach destination in southern Bali, prompting public concern and intense discussion on social media.

Agus Dwiatmika said ITDC, together with Bali’s water police and local lifeguards, had been conducting regular patrols and monitoring along the beach to ensure visitor safety.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the species of shark because the animals were spotted relatively far from shore. However, similar sightings occurred in 2013 and 2019 involving blacktip reef sharks, a species commonly found in tropical shallow waters.

“These sharks are generally shy, avoid humans, and are not dangerous,” Agus Dwiatmika said. “They usually approach coastal waters while following plankton currents and schools of small fish.”

He also urged residents and tourists to remain calm and avoid overreacting if sharks are seen near the beach.