Kayakers rescued from massive waves at Moss Landing State Beach

Massive waves and windy conditions left two men stranded in the water at Moss Landing State Beach, Sunday. The pair fought to stay afloat after a large wave came crashing down, flipping their kayaks.

California State Parks was able to rescue both men. One was pulled to shore by jetski, while battling rough waters.

Those that visit the beach often said going out to sea during, or after, a storm is always a risk.

“Especially around winter storms. During these kind of storms the water is getting pushed in. It gets pretty hectic out there,” said Jose, a local fisherman.

A sign, warning people of that danger, stands feet from the water. It notes that even on calm days, waves are a danger to explorers. On a stormy day, the risk is even greater.

“The waves here at Moss Landing are unusually powerful. It can actually be really hard to paddle through sometimes,” said surfer, Andrew Westerman.

Westerman said the big waves are caused by the marine canyon that lies just off shore. “It concentrates the energy of the waves and so you’ll have larger waves here. They occur pretty generally throughout the winter months,” said Westerman.

California State Parks said both men were brought to shore, uninjured.

Those thinking about going out on the water are using it as a reminder. “I really don’t go out into the water for fear of stuff like this. Just be careful out there,” said Jose.