Anyone in Florida (resident or tourist) that enters a body of water takes a risk of an encounter with a shark (ocean) or alligator (inland). Heck, they’re on most of the golf courses. Florida is the third most populous state with millions visiting each year. I don’t think this is an epidemic by any means.
Yes, I’ve encountered gators at Disney World, myself. I steered clear of the hotel lake after that. I don’t enjoy pools but Disney hotels have fantastic pools for swimming. I realize they were on this beach to watch a movie.
I don’t golf either - I’d faint if I came across one of them but I guess you get used to them?