Santa Barbara Surfer Rescued Clinging to Lobster Trap Over 1,000 Feet Out to Sea (Video)

Originally posted on SURFER | By Dashel Pierson | Last updated Feb 11, 2026 2:51 PM ET

On Saturday, a 26-year-old surfer was swept a quarter-mile out to sea amidst large waves in Santa Barbara, California. The unidentified individual survived.

He had been surfing Haskell’s Beach in Goleta when the incident occurred. Around 6:30pm, well after dark, officials received a distress call from the surfer’s friend. They found his board washed ashore without him attached. Thus, the rescue began.

They found him over a thousand feet out to sea, clinging to a lobster trap for survival. Video footage of the rescue was captured; see below.

According to the Santa Barbara Fire Department:

“A 26 y/o surfer got swept out by high surf after losing his board, but his friend reported it immediately and he clung to a lobster trap buoy until help arrived.

“SB County Fire's shore search found the board, drones with infrared located him 1/4 mile offshore, and rescue swimmers brought him safely back. Evaluated on the beach—no medical attention needed, released on scene.”

“Grateful for the quick-thinking friend, our dedicated SBC Fire teams, and life-saving drone tech.”

The surfer was evaluated by medical personnel following the rescue, but determined to be unscathed during the incident. He was released without further medical attention.

On Saturday, when the incident occurred, a strong W/WNW swell slammed the Southern California coast, creating large waves from San Diego to Santa Cruz. It was the first substantial swell of the winter season, and surfers took full advantage.

However, amidst such conditions, there are also dangers – as demonstrated with this surfer in Santa Barbara, who was lucky to come away with his life.

“Never go into the ocean alone, especially in rough conditions,” the fire department said.

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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