Our Team

FOUNDER AND LEAD EDUCATOR

Hi! Im Kayli Jones, the founder of Sea People Surf Education. You’ll find me at every event, being driven by a passion to connect as many people as I can to the natural world around us. I started teaching surf lessons in 2021, using my background as a yoga teacher and outdoor educator to seamlessly integrate surf skills, that I had just learned myself, into a whole body learning practice that is familiar and accessible to most Every Body I teach.

If you see me out of a wetsuit it might be guiding field trips with Yakona Nature Preserve or foraging for wild foods from land or sea (or highway). If you see me, always come 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 Jewelry pieces 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.

SURF EDUCATOR

Liv is a passionate surfer, teacher, & practitioner. She offers movement, touch, and sound as doorways into greater ease, regulation, and whole-body well-being. As an RYT-500 yoga instructor, certified Foundation Training teacher, and trained in Zenthai Shiatsu and sound healing, she weaves multiple lineages of care to support people in feeling more connected, resilient, and at home in their bodies. For over 20 years, Newport has been her home, and she holds a deep love and gratitude for this coastline and the community she’s honored to serve. Find out more about her offerings at Move Free.