Shark Sighted, Beached Whale Towed Offshore Near San Elijo State Beach

Beachgoers in North County should exercise caution before going in the water the next several days, lifeguards/CA State Parks officials say.

By Ashley Ludwig, Patch Staff

Apr 27, 2026 11:13 am PDT | Updated Apr 27, 2026 11:38 am PDT

A shark advisory was in place after a whale carcass was towed offshore in Encinitas. (City of Encinitas Photo)

ENCINITAS, CA — A beached whale was confirmed dead Monday, and at least one shark was sighted in the area, at San Elijo State Beach in Encinitas.

Early Monday, a team of Encinitas lifeguards was dispatched to tow the carcass out to sea, along with California State Parks personnel, according to the city of Encinitas.

The carcass now floats about 400 yards offshore of San Elijo State Beach, and is drawing birds and other animals.

Officials advised beachgoers to exercise caution before getting into the water for several days because at least one shark was spotted following the whale's carcass as it was being towed.

The whale's cause of death was unclear.

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