The Keyhole at Panther Beach is one of Santa Cruz’s most iconic coastal landmarks. On Sunday night, November 8, it became the scene of a devastating disappearance.
Senah Park, 24, of San Bruno, was visiting the beach north of Santa Cruz with five friends for a birthday celebration. According to Lookout Santa Cruz, they had brought a guitar, firewood and drinks to a secluded cove beneath the sandstone cliffs.
As darkness fell, four members of the group headed back toward the Keyhole, a narrow rock arch connecting the cove to Panther Beach. But the tide was rising, and waves knocked them off their feet. Three escaped; one suffered a dislocated shoulder. Park disappeared into the ocean.
Her father, Kwanghyon Park, told Lookout the last thing her friends saw was the glow of her cellphone in the darkness. Then, she was gone.
According to Cal Fire, who initiated a multi-agency search for Park, the group became trapped when rising water cut off their route back through the opening.
“Ocean conditions along our coastline can change in an instant,” the agency warned. “High tides can flood beaches and cut off escape routes quickly.”
The ocean was particularly dangerous that evening. The National Weather Service had warned of sneaker waves and strong rip currents, with breaking waves reaching 16 feet.
“It sucks to say, but just got to know your place and when you’re coming to the beach, especially when there’s swell like there has been this past week,” a local surfer told KSBW8.
An extensive search followed. Coast Guard boats and helicopters joined drones, firefighters, sheriff’s deputies and State Parks personnel, combing roughly 95 square miles. But after eight hours of coordinated searching, the Coast Guard suspended active operations.
“Suspending a search is a difficult decision,” said Coast Guard Lt. Max Holloway. Park remains missing.
The news was heartbreaking for her family, who refused to stop looking. More than 30 relatives and friends gathered on the cliffs Tuesday to pray, while volunteers searched over 10 miles of coastline.
“Anyone who’s hiking or in the area, please keep your eyes open for our beloved Senah,” her father pleaded. “Just pray for us.”
The Keyhole has seen tragedy before. Two college students died after being swept into the ocean nearby in June.
This is an unmistakable reminder that the ocean demands respect, whether you’re surfing or simply walking the beach. Check the tide, stay clear of narrow passages as water rises, and never underestimate a wave that can arrive without warning.
Cal Fire also urged bystanders not to enter the water during a rescue, but instead call emergency services.
Anyone with information should contact the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office at 831-471-1121.
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