High surf in OC making for exciting, but dangerous waves

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- High surf and powerful waves on Saturday likely capsized a boat off Catalina Island, while at beaches like Newport, swimmers and surfers were on their guard.

Lifeguards at Newport Beach said they had at least five or six rescues by Saturday morning amid the big waves.

But for experienced surfers, the monster waves made for some great action.

"The wave broke my board and made me pay the price but it was totally worth it," said surfer Pat Towersey.

Inexperienced swimmers and surfers were cautioned to stay out of the water. Lifeguard battalion chief Brent Jacobsen said if you're caught up in a rip current, the worst thing to do is panic.

"Go with the flow of the current if you can," he said. "The rip current will dissipate if it doesn't wait till the lifeguards arrive. The main thing is don't panic."