California Surfer Rescued After Dramatic Ocean Ordeal Clinging to Lobster Pot Buoy

In a dramatic rescue off the coast of California, a surfer was discovered clinging to a lobster trap buoy after being swept away by powerful waves. The harrowing incident, captured in stomach-dropping footage, unfolded at a Santa Barbara County beach.

The 26-year-old surfer found himself in perilous waters around 6:38 p.m. on Friday. The Santa Barbara County Fire Department reported that he was pulled out to sea by the forceful surf while enjoying the waves near Goleta.

The drama began when the surfer’s friend noticed his absence and quickly raised the alarm, prompting an urgent rescue operation at Haskell’s Beach. Responding swiftly, the fire department rallied to locate the missing man.

Rescue teams soon discovered the surfer’s abandoned board washed ashore, prompting them to deploy drones equipped with infrared cameras to scan the ocean, as revealed by authorities.

In a gripping turn of events, video footage showed the stranded surfer about a quarter mile offshore, tenaciously holding onto a lobster trap buoy as he battled against the strong currents of the dark waters, officials confirmed.

Rescue swimmers were then deployed and safely escorted the man back to shore. He was not injured, authorities said.

“Never go in to the ocean alone, especially in rough conditions. It can save lives,” the fire department said in a statement.