# California shark sightings near coastal waters

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/california-shark-sightings-near-coastal-waters
> Updated: 2026-10-29T00:00:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Recent reports indicate increased shark activity along the California coast. In Manhattan Beach, a shark was filmed in shallow water near surfers at El Porto Beach. While the species was not confirmed, observers suggested it may have been a baby thresher shark. Experts noted that warmer ocean temperatures from El Niño conditions may be driving various species closer to the shore.

Later, a large great white shark, estimated to weigh approximately 1.8 tons, was filmed approaching surfers at Pismo Beach. Drone footage showed the predator swimming close to a longboarder before changing direction.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-29: Great white shark approaches surfers at Pismo Beach

A large great white shark was filmed swimming within feet of surfers at Pismo Beach, California, on October 28, 2026.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/great-white-shark-approaches-surfers-at-pismo-beach

### 2026-10-19: Shark spotted swimming near surfers at Manhattan Beach

A shark was filmed swimming in shallow water near surfers at El Porto Beach in Manhattan Beach, California, amid a trend of unusual marine sightings driven by El Niño.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shark-spotted-swimming-near-surfers-at-manhattan-beach

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Cite as: California shark sightings near coastal waters. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/california-shark-sightings-near-coastal-waters