SAFARI SURF SCHOOL STAFF See more pictures of Tim and Tyler Your instructors have over 75 years of surfing experience combined and it shows in their knowledge of the ocean, the environment, surf etiquette, and safety.
Tim & Tyler
Marsh Owners / Instructors: Tim and Tyler Marsh own and operate Safari
Surf School. Both
were raised on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, and have been surfing
almost as long as they've been walking. They've traveled to
surf the waves all the way from Indonesia, Fiji, Tahiti, Australia,
Mainland and Baja, Mexico, and more to - of course - Costa
Rica. Once there, they both realized this was home to the good
life - pura vida - and where they would set up Safari
Surf School.
Tim lives and works out of San Diego, California. He's the
guy who will help you make all your arrangements
and reservations for your Costa Rican
adventure. While Tim visits and instructs at the School as often as possible, Tyler lives in Nosara and
is your prime surf instructor, local guide, dining guru and
all around point man. Together, they make sure every aspect
of your travels, lodging, surfing and other amenities are all
you expect - and more.
Tim, Tyler and our instructors are Red Cross-certified
and trained in Ocean Rescue and first aid.
Tyler Marsh: "Pro-prietor" / Lead Surf Instructor ISA Certified Surf Instructor Tyler has been surfing for over 30 years of his life and has taught thousands of people the art of surfing. Tyler has been living in Nosara for over 13 years and has become the unofficial "mayor" of Nosara.
Rolando (aka "Rolo") Lopez: Surf Instructor ISA Certified Surf Instructor Rolando has been with Safari Surf School for the last 8 years and is one of our main instructors. His personality, charm, and professional approach separate him from the average surf instructors of the world. He is amazing with all the guests and a “fan” favorite of many! He was born and raised in Nosara and is a regular ripper in the line up as well. His smile and “pura vida” vibe is infectious! He speaks fluent English.
Owen Stoneman: Surf Instructor ISA Certified Surf Instructor Owen is a professional BSA Level 2 Surf Instructor, and qualified RLSS/ISLF International Surf Lifeguard, with experience teaching surfing at various levels in UK, Australia, Canary Islands, Portugal, Ireland, and Morocco. He also has a HND in Surf Science and Technology and a BS Hon Degree in Environmental Resource Management. Owen has been surfing both short boards and long boards for around 15 years now and riding waves is his passion. Safari Surf School is excited to have Owen with us.
Alonso Aragon: Surf Instructor ISA Certified Surf Instructor Alonso has been surfing for over 10 years and is one of the best local surf guides in town. He has a great way with the kids too! Every time you see Alonzo there is a smile on his face... he just loves to surf, teach surfing, and meet new people. His infectious attitude immediately rubs off on you! He embodies the “pura vida” vibe all the way. He speaks fluent English.
Pio Ruiz: Surf Instructor ISA Certified Surf Instructor
Pio is a Nosara native and top local surfer who's been instructing with Safari Surf School for more than 10 years. He speaks fluent English, and loves to work with families, especially if he can get one of the kids to be the first to catch a wave! Pio has excellent wave and people skills! His charm and genuine personality is what attracts people to him.
Helvin Rios: Surf Instructor ISA Certified Surf Instructor
Helvin is a Nosara local and one of the best surfers in the water! He has been surfing almost as long as he has been walking. He is passionate about teaching the art of surfing and he enjoys meeting the guests that come to us in Costa Rica from all over the world. His smile and attentive approach to teaching is contagious.
Helvin is an ISA Certified Surf Instructor.
Surf Instructor: Sonja Marikovics: Operations Manager Surf Instructor: Sonja Marikovics: Operations Manager. Sonja comes to Safari Surf School from lovely New York City. She is an "alumni" of Safari Surf School's program and fell in love with the people, the place and the overall enchanting vibe of Nosara. Sonja keeps Safari Surf School's operations running smoothly.
Nico Almeida: Surf Instructor
Nico came to us from teaching surfing in Peniche, Portugal. Nico is an International Business and Human Resources graduate. In addition to being an experienced surfing instructor, he is also experienced in teaching english and working in the hospitality and construction industries in the U.S. and Europe.
