Massive Great White Shark Spotted Near Santa Monica Shores

A large Great White shark, measuring approximately 15 feet, was spotted near the shores of Santa Monica last week, marking a rare sighting of this apex predator in urban waters. Photographer Carlos Guana captured the moment using a drone on Thursday, a mile north of the Santa Monica Pier, after hearing reports of Great Whites breaching in the area.

Initially, Guana expected to encounter juvenile sharks, which are typically seen in the region and can grow up to 10 feet. According to marine experts, newborn and juvenile Great White sharks are drawn to the warmer near-shore waters where they can find abundant prey with fewer predators. In contrast, adult sharks usually prefer deeper, colder waters.

Upon launching his drone, Guana was surprised to spot the silhouette of a large Great White gliding near the surface about 50 yards from the coast. “The Santa Monica Bay is known as a nursery ground for juveniles,” Guana stated. “But this was no juvenile. This is the real deal.” Recognizing the significance of his find, he promptly informed a local lifeguard as a precaution.

Statistics from California Fish and Wildlife indicate that shark encounters in California are relatively rare. From 1950 to 2021, there have been approximately 200 verified incidents in California waters, of which 107 resulted in injuries and 15 in fatalities.

For Guana, witnessing the shark was more awe-inspiring than alarming. He emphasized that the sighting serves as a spectacular reminder of the diverse marine life that exists just off the coast of one of the busiest cities in America. “It’s a good reminder of how a great ecosystem exists next to one of the busiest cities in America,” Guana remarked. “And just how rare a shark attack here really is!”

The sighting of such a significant marine predator not only highlights the health of the local ecosystem but also encourages a greater appreciation for the wildlife that inhabits these coastal waters. As urban development continues to encroach on natural habitats, moments like this serve to reconnect individuals with the importance of marine conservation.