A drone operator successfully alerted a surfer to the presence of a nearby shark off the coast of Seascape Beach in Aptos, California. This tense encounter, captured on video, quickly gained traction across social media platforms.
The incident took place on June 10th, around 8:45 a.m., when photographer Nick Bertocchini, known on Instagram as Corfino Photography, was flying his drone in the area. Through the drone’s camera, he noticed the outline of a shark moving toward the surfer, identified only as "Rex."
The aerial footage revealed the surfer calmly sitting on his board, oblivious to the predator circling beneath him. As the shark began to encircle Rex, Bertocchini sprang into action.
Effective Drone Intervention
Bertocchini employed a proven method: he revved the drone’s motors and maneuvered it to the side of the shark to draw the surfer's attention.
"I tried to warn the surfer, Rex, whom I spoke with afterward, by increasing the drone's motor speed and moving it toward the shark," Bertocchini explained on his Instagram post. "This tactic has successfully alerted other surfers to sharks before."
The quick-thinking maneuver paid off. Rex noticed the shark and hastily paddled towards the shore. The most intense moment occurred when the shark positioned itself directly behind Rex before ultimately swimming away without any physical contact.
Growing Concerns Over Shark Sightings
Bertocchini noted that the shark's behavior was particularly unsettling. "Sharks are usually curious and leave quickly, but this one seemed more investigative than usual," he commented.
After reaching safety, Rex, who has surfed in the area for years, shared with Bertocchini that shark sightings near Seascape Beach have become more frequent over time.
The video was shared on Instagram on June 16th and went viral after being broadcast by local station KSBW 8 and its national affiliates.
Shark Hotspot Known as "Shark Park"
The Santa Cruz region is notorious for young great white shark sightings, particularly during the warmer months of summer and fall when the waters of Soquel Cove heat up. This has led to the area being colloquially dubbed "Shark Park" due to the numerous sightings recorded.
State authorities have installed warning signs at nearby beaches such as Seacliff, New Brighton, and Rio del Mar following multiple reported sightings in the area.
This incident occurred six months after the tragic death of triathlete Erica Fox, 55, who vanished on December 21, 2025, while swimming in Monterey Bay. Her body, found on December 27 near Davenport Beach in Santa Cruz County, showed injuries attributed to a great white shark.
Despite the fear these encounters generate, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife reports that shark incidents are statistically rare, with fewer than 250 documented since 1950. The state averages less than three incidents per year and less than one fatality annually.
"I'm relieved that both the shark and the surfer parted ways without further incident," Bertocchini concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shark Sightings in California
How common are shark encounters for surfers in California?
Shark encounters are statistically rare in California, with fewer than 250 incidents documented since 1950. The state averages fewer than three shark-related incidents annually.
What safety measures are in place for shark sightings at California beaches?
State authorities have placed warning signs at beaches with frequent shark sightings, such as Seacliff, New Brighton, and Rio del Mar, to alert visitors of potential dangers.
What should surfers do if they encounter a shark?
Surfers should remain calm and slowly paddle back to shore without making sudden movements or splashes. It is important to keep an eye on the shark’s location and avoid turning your back on it.