Kayak shark sighting — La Jolla
A kayaker in La Jolla reported spotting sharks during a chilly week on the water — a reminder that local paddling trips can deliver big wildlife encounters even when conditions are cold (x.com). Safety reminders for spring paddling are circulating as warmer weather returns, urging vigilance and preparation (educationnewscanada.com).
La Jolla’s shallow nearshore is a seasonal hotspot for leopard sharks, which typically congregate from late June through early December with peak numbers in August and September. (lajolla.ca) A large great white was filmed roughly three miles off La Jolla on June 28, 2025 and was estimated at 16–18 feet long in footage shared with local broadcasters. (ktla.com) OCEARCH’s public tracker shows recent tagged elasmobranch activity in the region, including a white-shark ping labeled “Crystal” on Feb. 14, 2026 and other large sharks with pings this year. (ocearch.org) California beach managers have posted advisory notices after nearshore sightings before — for example, a Torrey Pines advisory was issued last August after a shark was reported about 100 yards from shore. (lajolla.com) Local outfitters in La Jolla routinely run guided kayak and snorkel tours that include wetsuits, PFDs and certified guides to manage wildlife encounters and surf conditions. (lajollakayak.com) Spring paddling guidance circulating with the warmer-weather season stresses dressing for water temperature, carrying a personal flotation device and a sound-signalling device, and keeping launch plans conservative after winter—recommendations echoed by paddling safety organizations and park agencies. (paddling.com)
