Kayaker Attacked by Shark Off Malibu Coast

A kayaker was reportedly attacked by a shark while fishing off Paradise Cove in Malibu on Sunday morning. The incident occurred around 8:30 a.m. near the popular beachside cafe.

According to initial reports, the victim was in his kayak when a shark, described as potentially a mako, bit him. The kayaker fell into the water following the first bite. The shark then allegedly circled back and bit him a second time.

A nearby fisherman witnessed the attack and immediately assisted the victim, pulling him from the water onto his boat. The injured kayaker then contacted his girlfriend, a retired lifeguard, who called 911.

Los Angeles County lifeguards responded to the scene and helped transport the victim to shore. He was subsequently taken to a hospital by ambulance for treatment of his injuries. The California Post is seeking further information from lifeguards regarding the specifics of the attack and the victim's condition.

Dramatic video captured at the scene shows a lifeguard moving through the water during the rescue operation. The footage indicates calm conditions off the Malibu coastline, with a small boat present as the rescue unfolded. While a person can be seen swimming toward the boat, it is not clear if this is the attacked kayaker. The video does not clearly show the shark or provide independent confirmation of the attack.

Shark activity in Southern California waters is not uncommon, particularly during warmer months. Sharks are often drawn to shallow coastal areas in search of food, such as baitfish concentrations, or due to warmer water temperatures and changing tides. These areas can also serve as nursery habitats for juvenile sharks. Encounters can also be more frequent around dawn and dusk.

The circumstances surrounding this specific incident are under investigation.