Salty Souls — Danny
In conversation with the Shaka Costa Rica team
For anyone who's entered the gates at Shaka eager and ready to surf, either for the first time or the hundredth, you've inevitably crossed paths with our head surf coach Danny. Whether you’ve worked with him personally or just shared a laugh over a cold beer, one thing is undeniable: this man lives for the ocean! He prides himself on offering a high level of instruction and seeks reward in seeing everyone catch their best possible waves. He’s not only a dedicated surfer, but a loving father and lifelong fisherman. Let’s dive in and see what makes our very own Danny tick…
What was your life like prior to living in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica:
Life wasn't always warm tropical days and consistent surf. I was actually lucky enough to live right on the sand in Folly Beach, South Carolina to be exact, although it came at a price. High rents meant living in an old roach-infested house with two other roommates in the hopes of scoring fickle waves. When it was flat (which was often), I'd split time between fixing cars and fishing, waiting for the next potential chest high day.
What brought you to Costa Rica originally and how long have you been here now?
Easy: my driving forces to leaving behind the US to start a new life was a simpler way of life with the hopes of bigger, more consistent waves. I was also after great fishing!
How young did you start surfing and when did you decide that it would forever be apart of your life?
I'd grown up in the water, body surfing and boogie-boarding but didn't actually start surfing until my late teens, believe it or not. I'd finally saved up enough money to buy a pawnshop board. I remember it so well: a 6'6 Kelly Richards pintail. Unfortunately, the board was stolen before I learned to surf it. My girlfriend at the time had a surfer friend that she introduced me to and after bothering him with multiple calls he finally agreed to loan me a board and take me out; the good old barter system of beers for board. My board's name was Aquafina, a gorgeous twin fin with a lightning bolt painted on top.
What about surf coaching and specifically what part of teaching our guests here at Shaka do you love the most?
My biggest reward is seeing guests meet or exceed the goals they've set for themselves. Watching them put in the ocean time and experiencing their energy when they accomplish something, it's a real "buzz" for me that never gets old.
What’s your favourite time or part of your day coaching at Shaka?
My favourite part of the day starts with my 5:15am coffee while listening to the waves, followed by my jungle drive to Shaka. Pulling in through the gates and seeing who's up and eager. The morning energy of the guests wondering what the ocean will provide is always a kick!
For those who know you, you're definitely a waterman. What other water activities do you include in your life?
My life revolves around the ocean and outdoors. Fishing, surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding and camping. Jungle missions to chase fish in remote rivers is definitely a winner in my eyes. When I have any time off from Shaka, I disappear into the jungle with my fishing rod, bait, and tackle.
What’s one of your dream surf destinations?
We're so blessed by where we live and I truly believe we have some of the best waves here in Santa Teresa, so choosing another destination would be difficult. I will say this though; if it can involve a boat trip, with long open barrels and clear water for fly fishing in my down time, you can sign me up!
Danny epitomizes the Shaka life, one where love for the ocean is echoed in lifestyle and is guided by the tides; we’re so happy he’s a part of our family here in Playa Hermosa.
Anyone that’s surfed with Danny knows he’s an open book, and certainly has some epic stories! Can’t join us ASAP and want to find out more about Danny? Drop us a question in the comment box below!
Stay tuned for the next chapter of Salty Souls, when we chat with Neomi, our yoga instructor and reiki master extraordinaire.
