Swimmer found dead at picturesque California beach: ‘The ocean is unforgiving’

A swimmer died at a rugged stretch of California’s Big Sur coast after going missing in the water and being found on rocks during a frantic search-and-recovery effort, firefighters said.

The man was reported missing just after 1 p.m. at Sand Dollar Beach, according to Big Sur Fire Chief Matt Harris.

Emergency crews searched for about 20 minutes before locating the victim on the rocks.

Multiple agencies responded, including the US Coast Guard, which deployed a helicopter to help search the coastline, according to KSBW.

Rescuers pulled the man from the rocks and immediately began performing CPR, but he could not be saved.

The circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation.

First responders are warning beachgoers to be especially careful along the Central California coast, where powerful ocean swells, slippery rocks and significant tidal movements can create dangerous conditions.

“The ocean is unforgiving, you know. And right now, especially with the large tidal movements. And right now we have a pretty good-sized northwest swell. The rocks are very slippery. The swell is very powerful. And just to be careful and know you know your limitations,” Harris said.

Officials urged swimmers to check ocean conditions before entering the water and to recognize the risks posed by powerful surf.

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