Santa Cruz Lifeguards: Valor Awards for Surf Rescue
Santa cruz lifeguards, Ben Coffey and Xander Mehl, performed an extraordinary rescue when they outran a massive wave to save surfers caught in perilous conditions near West Cliff Drive. Faced with “mini tsunami surges” in Monterey Bay,the lifeguards,using a jet ski,navigated the treacherous waters. Their actions highlight the bravery of Santa Cruz lifeguards and underscore the power of preparedness in the face of danger. The Santa Cruz Wharf also sustained damage during this same event, adding another layer to the dramatic day. News Directory 3 recognizes the valor exhibited by the lifeguards. Discover the details of this daring surf rescue and learn about the ongoing efforts to improve future operations and assess the damages. Discover what’s next …
Santa Cruz Lifeguards Outrun massive Wave to Rescue Surfers
Updated June 17, 2025
A seemingly normal day along Santa Cruz’s West Cliff Drive turned perilous when two city lifeguards, Ben Coffey and Xander Mehl, had to rescue surfers from a massive wave. The incident highlights the unpredictable power of Monterey Bay and the bravery of these first responders.
Coffey, 27, son of shaper ward Coffey, described the conditions as “mini tsunami surges.” He and Mehl, both Santa Cruz Fire Department employees, launched a jet ski to assist two surfers caught in a strong current near Mitchell’s Cove. The situation escalated rapidly as reports came in about damage to the Santa Cruz Wharf.
The same surge that impacted the wharf created what Coffey called “the biggest set I’ve ever seen on the West Side.” This set threatened to push the surfers into a dangerous rock garden east of the Mitchell’s Cove staircase.
To prevent the surfers from being slammed against the rocks, Coffey and Mehl decided to pull them far out to sea. After rescuing the first surfer, thay returned for the second, but an enormous wave broke, stretching from Mitchell’s Cove to Saberjets, near Steamer Lane.
Faced with a towering wall of whitewater and the cliffs, the trio had only one option: outrun it. Coffey, Mehl and the surfer sped ahead of the wave for over half a mile, finally escaping it’s reach near Its Beach, just north of Steamer Lane.
Daniel Dreifuss /afp via getmages images
Coffey credited his professional training and observation of Hawaiian water patrol techniques for their accomplished rescue.He noted the importance of efficiency and preparedness in high-pressure situations.
After ensuring the surfers’ safety, Coffey and Mehl assisted fellow lifeguards at the damaged pier before returning to the harbor, marking the end of a long and challenging day.
“It seemed like mini tsunami surges,” Ben Coffey said. “To be honest, it was pretty cool to see that amount of swell in clean conditions…waves were breaking in places I’d never seen before. It was wild to watch, especially from the water on the ski.”
What’s next
The Santa cruz Fire Department is reviewing the incident to improve future rescue operations during extreme weather events. The city is also assessing the damage to the Santa Cruz Wharf and planning repairs.