Shark sightings spike near America's beaches as July 4 crowds head to shore for weekend

As millions of Americans head to the beach for the Fourth of July weekend, shark experts say there's little reason to stay out of the water, though people need to stay alert. 

"Shark attacks are still extremely rare," Heithaus said.

He recommended avoiding murky water, staying away from areas where large schools of fish are visible and avoiding places where people are actively fishing.

People should also stay alert to local water conditions, including rip currents and the presence of other marine animals such as jellyfish.

Certain stretches of the East Coast, however, are more likely than others to see shark activity.

Even in areas where sharks are commonly found, encounters with people rarely end in bites, Heithaus said.

"Even when big sharks do encounter people, they almost always ignore us," he said.

Sharks play a vital role in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems, he added.

"It's important for people to know sharks are important for healthy oceans," Heithaus said.

The sightings occurred off Far Rockaway, where multiple sharks were spotted swimming near beachgoers. Authorities temporarily closed Beach 30 before reopening it about an hour later after determining conditions were safe.

City officials credited drone technology, lifeguards and emergency management teams with helping monitor shark activity and quickly alert swimmers.

Louis Casiano of Fox News Digital contributed reporting.