Meet Kyla Peterson | Surf Coach & Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kyla Peterson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kyla, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
I define success by the community I build, the experiences I create, and the connections I make. This goes for life and business in and out of the water. To me, running a surf school and defining success for me is based on the ability to provide a space where people feel empowered, supported, and inspired to grow, not just as surfers, but as individuals.

Success is also about integrity. It’s super important that I align my business with my values, making decisions that reflect authenticity, and ensuring that my actions come from a place of service. I want every client to feel seen, heard, and truly supported in their journey. I love to continuously ask myself, how can I best serve/benefit this person? It’s very rewarding and fulfilling to watch a person’s confidence and life change from the surf coaching I provide for them.

I think success would also include my relationship with the ocean and the environment. I want to run my business in a way that respects and protects the spaces that give so much to me and others around me as surfers.

On a personal level, success means building a life that feels fluid and free. A life where I feel strong, healthy, and aligned with my purpose. It’s about creating a business that not only sustains me but also enriches my life and the lives of those around me.

If my business can inspire confidence, connection, and care for the ocean, for oneself, and for others then I know I’m doing it right. That is success. To continue growing as a person, surfer, and business owner.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is more than a surf school, it has become a space for connection, confidence-building, and personal growth through surfing. What sets me apart is my focus on cultivating community, especially among women, and creating experiences that go beyond catching waves. Whether through my beginner women’s surf clinics, ISPE coaching for young surfers, or surf retreats, my goal is to provide an encouraging, empowering environment where people feel supported in their surfing in and out of the water.

What I’m most proud of is the community that has grown around my work. Seeing clients return, friendships form, and people gain confidence in the lineup is what fuels me. I’m also excited about expanding my retreats, surf coaching, and collaborative events that bring people together. The combination of surf, wellness, and personal development is something I’m passionate about, and I love creating spaces for people to experience that.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy. I grew up in the surf industry because my dad started Surfin Fire when I was a kid, and surfing has always been in my blood. But carving out my own path, building my own programs, and stepping into leadership roles and becoming a business owner has come with challenges. From financial struggles to navigating tons of self-doubt and learning how to balance passion with business, it’s been a journey of persistence.

I’ve overcome these challenges by surrounding myself with the right people, staying open to learning, and always leading with integrity. I’ve learned that success is about impact, alignment, and staying true to your values. Operating from a place of service rather than scarcity has been a game-changer, allowing me to build something sustainable that also feels fulfilling.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that surfing has the power to change lives. It’s not about skill or being the best surfer, it’s about mindset, confidence, and connection. My mission is to help people feel strong, capable, and free in the water, whether they’re stepping onto a board for the first time or refining their technique. If I can create a space where people feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow, then I know I’m doing something right.

I am super grateful for the continued opportunities that come my way, the support system around me, and most of all the confidence to overcome challenges and navigate through life with a more secure outlook.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for a week, we’d keep it simple and surf at the Oceanside Pier, grab breakfast burritos at Johnny Mañana’s or a coffee from High Tide Coffee. Afternoons would be all about cruising, maybe a mellow beach day, a hike in Torrey Pines, or a bike ride along the coast. Evenings would be for tacos and craft beer at Craft Coast, sunset hangs on the strand, and just enjoying the good vibes of the area. Going with the flow.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My dad started Surfin Fire when I was seven years old, instilling a love for surfing in me from the very beginning. Surfing is in my blood because of him, and I am grateful every day that he set me on this path.

Mike Graney brought me into the ISPE program, giving me the opportunity to work with young surfers in the San Dieguito Union High School District. His guidance has helped me grow both personally and professionally, providing a solid foundation to support myself while working alongside someone who truly values the program.

Katie LaLicata has been a friend first and a business partner second. She challenges and supports me in the most positive way, and together, we navigate obstacles as a team. Co-hosting retreats with her has helped me step into my role with more confidence and professionalism, allowing us to create truly special experiences for our guests.

Duran Barr has always been generous in sharing insights and guidance from his experience running a successful surf school in Oceanside. His support has helped me refine my own approach, and collaborating with him is always fun and inspiring.

My aunt Mary, uncle Paul, and cousins Alyssa Spencer and Ty Spencer have supported me in countless ways over the years. Their encouragement and belief in me mean the world, and I am lucky to have them in my corner.

Jen Huyck has continuously donated her time and talent, capturing photos and videos that bring my work to life. She shows up when I need her most, and her generosity and friendship have been invaluable.

Website: https://www.surfinfireoceanside.com

Instagram: Surfinfire_oside

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550537936866

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/surfin-fire-surf-school-oceanside-2

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@surfinfire_oside