Public Safety
La Jolla stingray reports hit four-year low so far
Three La Jolla beaches have recorded 399 reported stingray injuries in 2026, though unusually warm water could keep rays near shore later into the fall.
La Jolla Shores, Black’s Beach and Scripps Beach are on pace for their lowest combined stingray-injury total since 2023, according to lifeguard data obtained by Times of San Diego through a public-records request.
Reported so far in 2026: 399 injuries
2024 comparison: 763 injuries at the same three beaches
Important caveat: Lifeguard records do not include every unreported sting
Warm water may lengthen the season
A Scripps Oceanography researcher told Times of San Diego that stingrays favor the same shallow, warm water used by beachgoers and could remain active into November. Scripps reported in August that Southern California’s weak coastal upwelling and a developing El Niño were likely to keep coastal waters warmer into fall and winter.
Beachgoers can reduce the risk by shuffling or dragging their feet along the bottom, guidance also recommended by California Sea Grant. For a sting, Sea Grant advises hot but not scalding water and medical attention if severe pain persists.
Original reporting: Times of San Diego — October 21, 2026 →
Ocean conditions: Scripps Institution of Oceanography →
Safety guidance: California Sea Grant →