WATCH: Irish tourists on alert as footage emerges of shark at Canary Islands beach

Irish holidaymakers are urged to avoid some popular Gran Canaria beaches, as multiple shark sightings have been reported.

Those trekking out and about on holidays on the Gran Canarian east coast are urged to be cautious, as hammerhead sharks have been spotted close to the coastline.

Panic arose as bathers were ordered out of the water by lifeguards at Melenara Beach for the second day in a row, as tourists fled the water where the shark was spotted by a police drone. 

The giant creature was spotted lurking close to the shore shortly after the beach was reopened from the previous day. The bathing ban was extended to neighbouring Salinetas beach.

Two hours later lifeguards hoisted the red flag at a third spot, San Augustin beach in the south of Gran Canaria, another shark fin was seen. It is unclear if it is the same shark causing havoc or if more are nearby. 

Irish holidaymakers in the area close to Taliarte Port are also warned to avoid swimming as it is in the proximity of shark-infested waters. 

While most hammerhead species are considered harmless to humans, they can become aggressive if approached. 

Children could be heard screaming as the shark that caused panic at Melenara Beach approached the shoreline at speed. Footage from the scene showed kids running for safety as the shark swam towards the shoreline before turning back at the last minute.