Is it Really Safe to Go Into the Water?

July 16, 2020

Question: My family would like to rent a house at Stinson Beach in August. I feel silly asking this, but are sharks a legitimate concern for beach visitors in California? Are attacks more common when there are more people in the water, or have I been watching too many horror movies? (Kate)

Answer: Since 1950, there have been 191 shark incidents in California, 14 of which were fatal. Most of these injuries (and all the fatalities) were caused by white sharks – that’s the species you typically see portrayed as predators on-screen. In reality, marine biologists do not believe that white sharks intentionally target humans as prey. White sharks typically feed on pinniped populations (like seals), and from their vantage point, a swimmer or surfer might look a lot like a seal or sea lion.

Interestingly, even as the state’s population has greatly increased and more people than ever are visiting the beach to surf, swim and scuba dive, the number of shark incidents has not increased proportionally. And while it’s true that incidents have been reported in almost every coastal county, when you consider the number of people who visit the coastline overall, the likelihood of coming face-to-face with a shark is extremely slim. Two much more common dangers are rip currents (which occur statewide) and stingrays (in warmer Southern California waters).

So, before you dip your toes into the ocean, take a look around for any posted warning notices by local authorities. Being informed is part of staying safe. You probably won’t see a shark, but we hope you enjoy the beauty of our spectacular Pacific Ocean.

Don’t do it. Don’t go. Stay out of the water.

Moot point. Airbnb and short term rentals are currently closed in Marin County due to SIP.

https://marinrecovers.com/hotels-motels-hospitality/

Great Whites eat 100% of people who go in the water. FACTS

 

I’ve lost track, but there have been at least 15 confirmed interactions with kayak anglers since 2005 (btwn Lompoc and Shelter Cove). The actual number is probably higher than 20. The number of incidents seem to be increasing each year. I have a hard time believing there were as many incidents btwn 1990-2005.

this thread is scary

Enter the Water, Enter the Food Chain

Enter the Water, Enter the Food Chain

Yes, and no longer on top of the food chain...

i see what you did down there....dave davies reference ?

You really got me on that one!