A bit about

I rode my first wave on the front of a board when I was 2 years old and started getting pushed onto my own waves at 5. The freedom and flow I felt in these moments surfaced a love and passion like no other; a connection between the ocean and myself. Having grown up in San Diego, my first memories are of surfing my local break with friends and family. It was only as I got older that I realized how much these moments shaped who I am and what I’m here to do.

Competitive surfing came in and out of my life from high school until my mid twenties. I’ve participated in contests in California, Hawai’i, Australia, Bali, and Mexico. All of which not only tested my physical abilities, but my mental abilities as an athlete, individual, surfer as well. However, for me surfing has become so much more than a sport. It’s a lifestyle. I came to the realization that placing in a contest is a temporary high and what I find real fulfillment in is moments in between; the peace being in the ocean brings me. The raw beauty in which the ocean holds, the laughter that I’ve shared with friends sitting out in the line up and on the beach, the strength the ocean has helped me discover, and the way I can be a guide for people to find their own rhythm in the water.

Surfing has taken me around the world. In Hawai’i I had the privilege to learn from and work with the Waikiki Beach Boys for 4 years, gaining from them true water skills and awareness. In Australia I connected with my passion for coaching. In Mexico I was reminded that surfing is all about having fun and in Fiji I learned how to navigate the ocean with an unfamiliar environment. Each place has inspired me in its own way to commit my life to playing in, learning from, and protecting the ocean.

I’ve been spending most of my time in Indonesia for the last 6 years. My days are spent in and by the sea; surfing, meditating, giving gratitude for the life, land and community I am surrounded by, and working on my dreams. Immersing myself in this culture has made me grow aware of my true potential to help others in forming a deeper connection with themself and with the ocean. 

For me, surfing is a form of soulful expression ~ a unique and individual dance. The ocean will forever be my greatest teacher for wisdom, patience, and trust. It has helped me heal in ways I never would have imagined. This is a gift I want to share with people from all walks of life, and will be deeply grateful I have the opportunity and support to do so. 

Seeing someone transform in the water; build confidence, skills, awareness and passion, is a dream come true. To then see how this translates onto land and into other aspects of life is a reward like no other. What a feeling it is. I look forward to spending time with you in the water!

Dana // DanceLightly