Meet the team

Pablo Bonilla, 7x Mexican National Longboard Champion and Coach for Team Mexico in ISA World Longboard Champions 2024, is the founder and head coach at Cerritos Surf Academy. He has devoted over 25 years to teaching surfing on the picturesque Cerritos Beach. His passion for surfing is deeply rooted in family; along with his wife Holly, he has raised their three daughters in the vibrant surf culture of Baja, Mexico. Pablo's approach to coaching blends safety, surf etiquette, and progressive techniques, aimed at empowering surfers to ride independently and improve their skills. His extensive experience and personal dedication are reflected in the variety of programs he offers, from beginner lessons to advanced coaching. At the heart of his teaching philosophy is the desire to share the joy of surfing with others, making every wave a step towards adventure. Join Pablo for a transformative surf experience that goes beyond the waves.

Holly Bonilla is an integral part of the coaching team at Cerritos Surf Academy, where her extensive qualifications include being a trained ISA Surf Coach, a Red Cross Water Safety Instructor, and a Certified Paddle Board Instructor. With a deep love for the ocean and beach life, Holly thrives by the water. She is particularly passionate about empowering women through surfing, leading the Ladies Surf Club, an initiative dedicated to women coaching women. Holly also brings years of experience in hosting women's retreats and leading children's camps, making her a beloved and inspiring figure in the surfing community. Her commitment to nurturing a supportive and educational environment is evident in every session she leads.

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Coral "Coco" Bonilla is a dynamic presence at Cerritos Surf Academy, bringing world-class competitive experience to her coaching. Known for her dedication and focus in the water, Coco has an impressive roster of achievements, including multiple state and national titles. Her notable accomplishments include finishing 11th at the ISA World Longboard Championship 2024, securing 2nd place in the Under 18 girls shortboard at the ALAS Latin Tour 2023, and claiming 3rd place in the Central American Games Longboard 2023. Coco also proudly represented Mexico at the Pan American Games for Longboard in Chile in 2023. When she's not competing globally, Coco loves to share her expertise and passion for surfing with our students, enhancing our team with her international experience and spirited coaching.

Moana Bonilla is a celebrated surf coach at Cerritos Surf Academy, known for her infectious enthusiasm and specialized coaching for women and children. A champion surfer, Moana has clinched numerous state and national titles, and her remarkable skills earned her a 21st place finish at the 2023 ISA World Longboard Championship. Her natural leadership qualities make her an invaluable asset to our team. Moana's passion for surfing is matched by her commitment to empowering her students, helping them build confidence and skill in the water. She takes great joy in sharing the thrill of surfing, making every session with her an inspiring and rewarding experience.

KaliPearl the 'Little Ocean Girl" Bonilla is a vibrant member of the Cerritos Surf Academy team, known for her enthusiasm and supportive spirit in the water. An avid collector of shells and shark teeth, Kali embodies the true beach lifestyle. She's not only a joy to have in the lineup but also a highly skilled surfer, having earned silver medals in both the shortboard and longboard categories at the 2024 State Championships. Kali's encouraging nature makes her an exceptional coach, especially known for boosting confidence and enhancing the skills of surfers at all levels. Her passion and camaraderie make every surf session with her both fun and inspiring.