Mermaid Sightings and Experiences in 2024
The allusive mermaid has been a favorite cryptid for many. Many ancient cultures have some form of the creature in their mythology. From beautiful sirens to fish like monstrous beings, mermaid sightings have been documented for centuries.
If your goal is to see a mermaid for yourself, it can be tricky to know just where to go. Or if your looking to become a mermaid yourself, trying to find legitimate schools and experiences can be daunting
We compiled a list of 17 mermaid sightings and experiences. 7 mermaid sightings and 10 of the best mermaid experiences.
Here are 17 Mermaid Sightings and Experiences – Where To Stay And See Mermaids in 2024!
7 Mermaid Sightings Throughout History
1. Hispaniola (Haiti/Dominican Republic) – 1493
One of the earliest documented claims was made in 1493. This fantastic sight happened during the voyage Christopher Columbus and was documented by the explorer himself. He is said to have seen three “female forms” that “rose high out of the sea”. He also noted that they did not appear to be as beautiful as the rumors have said.
Today, the island has been split between Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Reports have stated both countries have mermaid sightings
2. Kai Islands, Indonesia – 1943
Also known as the Kei Islands, is located in the southeastern part of the Maluku Islands. During World War II, Japanese soldiers were stationed in the Kei Islands of Indonesia.
They recorded many different sightings including one time a troop of soldiers was exploring and came upon a lagoon. Everything seemed normal until there was a sudden thrashing in the water. What they saw locals refer to as an Orang Ikan
Orang Ikan means “man fish” in Indonesian. The creatures were described as being around 5 feet long, having spikes on the spine, shoulders and neck.
They were said to have pink salmon colored skin, and a mouth that resembled a carp. Rather than having a fishtail, these creatures had long arms and frog-like legs making them more amphibious in nature.
Then a strange creature jumped out of the water. Facing the soldiers to let out a sound that was a mix of a gargle and a burp, they didn’t believe it to be friendly. They saw another shadow moving in the water toward them. The soldiers started shooting at the orang ikan and into the water only to have the creatures disappear from view.
3. British Columbia, Canada – 1967
A ferry filled with tourists got the sight of a lifetime when they spotted a blonde mermaid sitting on the beach and eating a fish. There was one photo taken which does show a blonde woman with a lower half that resembled a porpoise.
Later that week, another or the same mermaid was spotted. A $25,000 was offered as a reward by Charles White who worked for the Undersea Gardens in Oregon.
While desperate to prove the mermaid’s existence, no one has attempted to claim the reward and unfortunately White has passed on and the Undersea Gardens has closed.
4. Kailua Kona, Hawaii – 1998
In Hawaiian folklore, the closest being related to our idea of a mermaid is the Mo’o. A Mo’o are shapeshifting reptile or amphibious like spirits. They are referred to as “Aumakua” which is a personal or family spirit that originated as a deified ancestor.
In 1998, dive master Jeff Leicher photographed the “Kaiwi Point Mermaid” on April 12, 1998. He
was off the coast of Kauai when he saw what looked like a nude woman swimming with a pod of dolphins. He was surprised the woman could keep up the pace with the dolphins.
“Then she leapt into the air and my heart almost gave out on me. The entire lower half of her was covered with scales and tapered back into a huge fish tail.”
The other ten people on the boat with Leicher saw the mermaid as well, but the creature disappeared after two jumps out of the water. The group continued on with their diving journey, but an hour later, as Leicher was photographing some underwater life, that same mermaid brushed up against him. He was able to get a few shots before she disappeared again.
5. Marina Beach, India – 2005
Reports about the carcass of an unknown creature appeared on Marina Beach in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India appeared after a Tsunami hit the area. Many believed it to be a Kadal Kanni, a small mermaid like creature due to its features.
This mermaid is said to be preserved in the Egmore Museum, but it is under tight security.
6. Kiryat Yam, Isreal – 2009
Many locals have claimed to see a mermaid off the shoreline. These sightings became so popular that even the local media got involved. They said the mermaid resembles a young girl and would often visit the beach and do tricks in the water.
Eventually the Israeli government noticed all the attention and issued a 3,300,000 Isaraeli Shekel reward, which is almost the equivalent of one million U.S. dollars. You didn’t even need to capture it, just bring in some kind of evidence that was true proof like a photo.
NBC even got in on the search doing its own investigation and had a film crew stationed where she was sighted most all day. They even filmed under the water in hopes they would capture her likeness.
The reward is still being offered and unclaimed.
7. Mutare, Zimbabwe – 2012
Dam workers in the city of Mutare had to halt the installation of a water pump when it appeared a mermaid was trying to stop them. Local divers and workers were hired to see what was blocking the pump and when they surfaced, vowed never to return.
It was recommended for a ritual to be performed to rid themselves of the angry mermaid and allow the workers to return to work. They still refused to return, even after the ritual was performed.
The government hired another team, as they found the claims hard to believe and the workers were being superstitious, but the new team reported the same thing and refused to finish the repairs.
To this day, the dam is still not finished and it seems Zimbabwe is a hot spot for mermaid sightings as not only are there many reports in the past, but their culture has a strong belief in them.
10 Mermaid Experiences – Where To Stay And See Mermaids in 2023
Now, when it comes to cryptid sightings, we have an understanding that there is a chance we might not get to see these wonderous beings. So, what if you are dead set on seeing some mermaids?
8. AquaMermaid
AquaMermaid is a school throughout the US and Canada (with one location in Mexico and the UAE) where you can learn to swim like a mermaid!
🧜♀️➡️Check them out here!
9. Mermaid Festival – Key West, Florida
The Mermaid Festival happens every year in Key West around Independence Day. Key West native, Kristiann Mills put together the five-day event out of her love for the mystical creature. She also happens to own her own mermaid curio shop as well.
From meet n greets and swim practice, to pool parties and sunset cruises, there is so much to do at this family friendly festival!
Also stop by the Thirsty Mermaid, a delicious seafood restaurant specializing in fresh catch of the day and local beer!
And if you need somewhere to stay?
🧜♀️➡️Keep an eye on the festival’s updates here so you can plan your trip!
10. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park – Apopka, Florida
Enjoy the traditional mermaid performance while stepping back in time, but keep in mind that this iconic Florida location is also home to the nation’s deepest freshwater cave system and a plethora of protected animals.
And your mermaid dreams come true at their Junior Mermaid Camp as children discover what it takes to become a magical mermaid! The Sirens of the Deep Mermaid Camp offers eager adults ages 30 and up a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover what it’s like to perform as a stunning underwater mermaid!
And in an effort to promote education, kids can write to a mermaid or merprince! This encourages literacy and practicing of penmanship. All letters are answered with a video recording that’s posted on the park’s facebook and twitter page.
🏞️➡️Click here for more park information!
11. B Ocean Resort – Fort Lauderdale, FL
Over in Fort Lauderdale, the famous Wreck Bar hosts a variety of mermaid themed shows. From family friendly scavenger hunts and Sunday brunch to adult themed burlesque shows, they got a little something for everyone!
11. O’Haire Motor Inn – Great Fall, Montana
Who would have thought you could find mermaids in landlocked Montana? Here is another bar themed for underwater viewing. The Sips N Dip bar has a tiki vibe and some of the highest rated drinks around
12. Silverton Casino – Las Vegas, Nevada
Every Friday and Saturday, Mermaid Lounge Live hosts a unique night out for music fans right next to Las Vegas’ well-known aquarium! Enjoy a wide variety of well-known musicians performing a wide range of musical genres. And of course, enjoy the mermaids!
They also have a mermaid school for kids 7-12.
13. Little Mermaid Statue – Copenhagen, Denmark
On a rock by the water at Copenhagen, Denmark’s Langelinie promenade, the sculpture called “The Little Mermaid” is on exhibit. Edvard Eriksen created the statue that shows a mermaid become human
Based on the popular fairy tale written by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen, the statue is a Copenhagen symbol and has been a popular tourist destination since it was unveiled in 1913.
14. Ripley’s Aquarium – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
At Ripley’s Aquarium, mermaids will appear swimming in the sting ray exhibit. Twice a month, they also host breakfast with a mermaid experiences that sell out quickly!
🧜♀️➡️Check out the event’s calendar for Ripley’s Aquarium here
15. Downtown Aquarium – Denver, Colorado
The Aquarium is a feast for the palate as well as the eyes. A range of seafood specialties, steaks, chicken, salads, pasta dishes, and delicious desserts are available at the Aquarium restaurant.
As you take a seat around the 50,000 gallon centerpiece aquarium, which offers great floor-to-ceiling viewing from every table, your undersea adventure begins. The tank is home to more than 100 kinds of vibrant, tropical fish from the Caribbean Sea, Hawaii, South Pacific, and Indian Ocean.
The Dive Lounge, a chic bar offering a luxurious escape for good drinks. It has a terrific Happy Hour is offered every Monday through Friday.
🍽️➡️Make a reservation on their website here!
16. Dive Bar – Sacramento, California
The Dive Bar in downtown Sacramento greets visitors with a touch of fantasy and modern elegance. Their world-famous live underwater performers will take you to a sea of dreams while the bartenders create their own aquatic alchemy behind the counter.
For the premier nightlife spot on land—or sea—with live DJs, eye-catching tank light displays, monthly and weekly drink specials, and events, look no further.
Watching a show is first come, first served. Mermaid performances on Friday and Saturday are standing-only events. On Friday and Saturday after 9 PM, there is a cover charge.
17. Hawaii
Hawaii is the best locations for mermaid sightings and experiences! Located throughout Hawaii, you’ll find various places offering the chance to dress up as a mermaid. Some are photoshoots, some are full on adventure excursion. Whatever it is you are looking for, Hawaii is definitely the place to do it!
🧜♀️➡️Mermaid Video Shoot and Snorkel Adventure in Honolulu
🧜♀️➡️Mermaid Ocean Swimming Lesson in Maui
🧜♀️➡️Mermaid Beach Photoshoot in Maui
🧜♀️➡️Mermaid Tail with Sea Scooter Fantasy Tour for Advance Snorkelers in Lahaina
Conclusion: 17 Mermaid Sightings and Experiences – Where To Stay And See Mermaids in 2024!
Hoping to catch a glimpse of a mermaid? Hoping to become one? Whether you are looking for the chance for actual mermaid sightings or mermaid experiences, there are many unique opportunities to do so.
