Our Team

FOUNDER AND LEAD EDUCATOR

Kayli Jones is the founder of Sea People Surf Education, so you’ll find her at every event, being driven by a passion to connect as many people as she can to the sea and natural world around them. Kayli has worked in outdoor education in many capacities for over a decade but things took a watery turn in the midst of the emotional upheaval associated with Covid-19 and she hasn’t left the coast since! She started teaching surf lessons in 2021, using her background as a yoga teacher and in Outdoor Ed to seamlessly integrate the surf skills she had just learned to teach them in ways that are familiar and accessible to all.

Kayli is also a freediver and spearfisher. She pushes her breath holding abilities by cleaning boat hulls on the side and hunting for dinner.

If you see her out of a wetsuit it might be guiding field trips with Yakona Nature Preserve or foraging for wild foods. If you see her, always say Hello!

SURF EDUCATOR

Claire Johnson is a teacher, creator and heartfelt surfer that we are so lucky to have coaching with us this year! Before joining Sea People, Claire spent three years teaching preschool; that playfulness and curiosity are still at the heart of how she teaches today. She fell in love with surfing in Sayulita, Mexico in 2019 and has quickly developed a graceful style that is instantly recognizable. She has this calm, grounded energy that makes everyone feel empowered and safe in and out of the water. When she’s not surfing you can find her combing the beaches for the perfect agate to incorporate into her Sun Dried Jewelrypieces or ripping it up at the skate park.

SURF EDUCATOR

Billy Wood is a dedicated surfer and skateboarder with a deep understanding of the body in motion. He began surfing at age 11 and skating at age 16, developing a distinctive style that blends skill and fluidity that you can see on every wave. With 10+ years of experience studying and practicing massage therapy, Billy brings a nuanced perspective on biomechanics that helps surfers refine their technique and mobility. Over the past year, he has challenged himself by learning to ride “switch” stance (riding with the opposite foot forward). This experience allows him to offer advanced level insight in a way that is digestible for surfers looking to progress with confidence and control. When not surfing you can find Billy building community, greenhouses and a bomb vegan taco.