Found thousands of these translucent blue, plastic-looking ovals washed up on the beach today
Velella velella are generally considered harmless to humans. While they do possess nematocysts, which are small stinging cells used for capturing prey, their sting is not potent enough to penetrate human skin. Most people can handle them without experiencing any adverse effects.
However, it is always advisable to exercise caution when handling marine life. Some individuals with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation, so it’s best to gently observe them without direct contact, especially for those with known allergies.