Swimmers and surfers are being asked to stay out of the water, as a whale carcass washed up on Kendalls Beach has sparking concerns about increased shark activity.

Kiama Council has closed the patrolled Surf and Kendalls beaches, and warning signs have also been placed at Bombo and Easts Beaches.

The dead whale originally landed on Werri Beach a couple of days ago, but was washed back out to sea. Only a portion of it has landed at Kendalls today, with the rest eaten by sharks in the meantime.

NSW Parks & Wildlife Service and Council are tending to the carcass this morning.

“Please avoid any water activity until further notice,” says the Council website.