The Californian coast, magnificent as it undoubtedly is, is lethal. The sign at this beach expresses it thus: "Dangerous Surf. Surfing, wading and swimming not advised. Shark area, strong undertows, currents and sneaker waves. Enter at your own risk" It must be the sharks! Your photographer, standing on a rise in the beach performed a 40 yard sprint from what was previously dry sand immediately prior to this shot. The figure nearest to the water in this photo was up to the waist in shark infested surf some 15 seconds before this was taken! This was a calm day. Magnificent!