Public Safety
Woman dies after high surf sweeps pair from rocks near Malibu
A woman died and a man was hospitalized after a large wave swept them from rocks near Sycamore Canyon Campground, according to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department.
The pair were watching the surf from rocks on the beach across from the campground when they were pulled into the water at about 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, NBC Los Angeles reported.
After struggling in the water for several minutes, the man was able to get himself and the woman back to shore and call 911. Paramedics performed CPR, but the woman died at the scene.
Location: Beach across from Sycamore Canyon Campground
Reported: About 11:45 a.m. on October 14
Woman: Died at the scene
Man: Hospitalized in moderate condition
Officials say the death was not suspicious
The man was expected to survive. Authorities withheld the woman’s name pending notification of her family and said there was no evidence of foul play.
A National Weather Service coastal advisory for the Malibu coast had warned that elevated surf and seawater flooding around high tide created an increased risk of ocean drowning.
Original reporting: NBC Los Angeles — October 14, 2026 →
Official advisory: National Weather Service →