A surfer was attacked by a shark Saturday off the coast of Santa Rosa Island in Southern California, authorities said.

The 37-year-old man was transported by helicopter to a hospital in Santa Barbara, about 38 miles away, where he was treated and ultimately stabilized, according to a statement from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Coast Guard helicopter crew from Air Station San Francisco FOB Mugu medevacs shark bite victim to saftey and transports him to Santa Barbara Airport where EMTs awaited. pic.twitter.com/zyDewiQWpU — USCG Los Angeles (@USCGLosAngeles) December 22, 2019

Petty Officer Mark Varney said the surfer had been bitten on his right leg.

The victim and a friend were chasing waves in the early afternoon when the man was attacked, the Coast Guard said, adding that someone aboard a nearby boat called authorities.

The Ventura County Fire Department tweeted that it wasn't immediately clear what kind of shark was involved.

Waves in Southern California Saturday were reported at 3 to 5 feet, with water temperature in the high 50s.

"This individual was fortunate to be with a buddy who was able to communicate their position to the Coast Guard," Lt. Benjamin McIntyre-Coble said in a statement. "We are all happy that he will be able to be with his family in time for the holidays."

Santa Rosa Island is part of the Channel Islands.