Surfer Struck by Great White at Montara State Beach

On May 31, 2025, at approximately 2 p.m., a 42-year-old male surfer experienced an unprovoked encounter with a great white shark while surfing approximately 100 yards offshore at Montara State Beach in San Mateo County, California. The incident occurred in the Pacific Ocean near Moss Beach in the Seal Cove neighborhood. The surfer felt a sudden impact to his foot that dislodged him from his surfboard. Upon looking back, he observed a shark with its jaws clamped on his board. He responded by pushing the board toward the animal, which promptly released and swam away. The surfer successfully paddled back to shore without sustaining any injuries. CaliforniaState Parks lifeguards and peace officers responded immediately to the incident. They cleared swimmers and surfers from the water and posted a 48-hour shark-closure advisory for the area. Officials examined the surfboard and confirmed that the damage was consistent with a shark bite, collecting evidence from the board for further analysis. Witnesses, including other surfers present at the time, estimated the shark to be approximately 10 feet in length. While authorities did not formally confirm the species at the scene, reporting indicated the animal was believed to be a juvenile white shark. The surfer's family, including his wife and infant daughter who were on the beach at the time, were present when he returned to shore and later observed the bite marks on the damaged surfboard.