Occurred on September 16, 2023 / Pismo Beach, California, USA

Info from Licensor: "Saturday morning, I was paddling out in the Pismo beach area off the central coast of California. The morning was overcast but exceptionally calm. Throughout the morning I'd see small fish jumping out of the water but no signs of mammals or other wildlife. As I got closer to some bird activity in the distance I watched as dozens of pelicans plunged head first into the water while other sea birds circled for scraps. Moments later, I heard a disturbance in the water behind me. As I turned around I watched as a pair of humpback whales breached with their mouths wide open just a few feet behind me! There was a strong fishy aroma as they dipped back below the surface. Somehow I managed to keep my composure and stay standing on the board during all the excitement."