Overview

• Surfer Jens Heller felt a sudden strike around 2:30 p.m. Saturday and saw the shark’s jaws clamp onto his board before he managed to paddle back uninjured.
• California State Parks officials closed Montara State Beach through Monday and advised swimmers to stay out of the water for 48 hours.
• The Department of Fish and Wildlife retrieved the damaged surfboard and other evidence late Saturday for forensic examination.
• Heller described spotting the shark’s “big mouth” and now plans to hang the irreparable board on his wall as an emblematic reminder.
• Officials emphasized that shark encounters remain rare along the California coast and urged beachgoers to heed posted warnings before reopening.