John-Paul Garcia

JP began his courtship with surfing at age 12 while on a trip to Oahu. It was one of those magical days when the sea was smiling, the sun was casting stray rays and Waikiki’s gentle lines held his hand as he was initiated into this new and wondrous world. A 9’ board with a radical 80’s spray job and a push from one of the local boys and JP was up, riding and instantly hooked!

JP is a farmer, lover of children’s cereal and self-proclaimed weirdo. According to him, weird people live longer (I really hope this is true). He also runs a surf school called Santa Barbara Seals. Whether it’s witnessing the excitement of a first cover up, a chance encounter with a sea creature or simply sharing the sunrise or sunset, JP loves spreading the stoke with the groms.

When he isn’t surfing, JP loves spending time with his daughter and dog. They can usually be found hiking, gardening, painting, taking pictures and making music.

When asked, ‘If you could have one super power, what would it be and why?’ JP selected underwater breathing to further explore the beauty of the sea.