A solid surface can exert pressure, but fluids (i.e. liquids or gases) can also exert pressure. ... The water above you would be pushing down on you because of the force of gravity and would therefore be exerting pressure on you.

Does a solid exert force?

solid exerts force as a vector (pressure is force on an area), a liquid exerts force in all directions.

Where does a solid exert pressure?

A solids exert pressure only on its base downwards while a fluid exerts pressure at all points in every direction.