High swells hitting the California coast have wreaked havoc on the Santa Cruz harbor, leading to the collapse of part of the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf and significant damage to numerous boats.
On December 23rd, 2023, the effects of the extra-large swells were highlighted as reports emerged of more than a dozen boats sinking and around 200 others suffering varying degrees of damage. The incident, described as potentially record-breaking, posed substantial threats not only to marine properties but to public safety as well.
According to the Santa Cruz Fire Department, the collapse occurred at approximately 12:44 p.m. near areas currently closed to the public due to construction. Fortunately, two victims were rescued by Lifeguard Unit 3166 and one self-rescued, with no significant injuries reported. Drone footage from the Santa Cruz Police Department confirmed no additional victims were caught up in the water debris, allowing emergency responders to assess the damage more effectively.
Video footage circulating on social media after the collapse showed wreckage of the wooden wharf floating away. Residents and boat owners rushed to check their vessels after learning of the damages, as anxiety grew around the future condition of local waterfront assets.
Warnings about hazardous ocean conditions were issued as authorities urged the public to avoid coastal areas, including popular spots such as Main Beach and Cowell’s Beach, which were closed due to the dangerous surf and significant debris risks. The sustained waves were described as capable of sweeping over entire beaches without warning, threatening anyone caught unaware.
Public safety officials reiterated: “Due to life-threatening ocean conditions, please avoid all coastal areas… Dangerous and powerful waves can sweep across entire beaches unexpectedly.” The risks were expected to last until at least noon on December 24th, leading to decisions about when the municipal wharf might reopen to the public still under review.
This isn’t the first time the Santa Cruz area has endured damage due to high surf. Earlier incidents this year resulted in cliff erosion at the popular surfing spot, Steamer Lane. Local officials continue to monitor these longstanding issues closely.
Meanwhile, boat owners are assessing damages, hopeful for the swift recovery and repair of their vessels. Many owners expressed concerns over the financial repercussions stemming from the incident, especially with the upcoming holiday season.
All eyes remain on the coast as weather conditions evolve and the focus shifts to recovery efforts. Residents are reminded to remain vigilant around the coastline as officials assess structural integrity and strategize post-disaster recovery.
With high surf advisories persisting, it remains uncertain how fast operations can resume at the Santa Cruz harbor, but community solidarity and support for affected businesses and boat owners will be key moving forward.
