Sponsors:
Danny Melhado
Founder & Head Coach
- ASP World Championship Tour Member
- U.S. Surf Team Member
- 3x ASP East Coast Champion
- 1x OP Junior Pro Huntington Beach Champion
- 2022 East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame Inductee
At the age of 14, Danny was offered his first sponsorship and an opportunity to travel internationally for professional surf contests. This early adventure set his life on course to follow world swells, compete at the highest level, and appreciate the power of the ocean.
After competing around the globe on the ASP World Championship Tour, Danny fell in love with the pristine beauty, crystal-clear water, and warm community of Okinawa. In 2009, he founded Happy Surfing Okinawa to share the genuine joy of surfing with beginners, travelers, and families from all over the world.
Professional Instructors
At Happy Surfing Okinawa, our coaching team includes highly skilled, passionate, and certified professional surf instructors. Personally vetted and trained under Danny's guidance, they ensure the highest safety standards and a fun, supportive learning environment in the water.
Professional Surf Instructor
An expert instructor trained under Danny's guidance. Specialized in helping beginners catch their very first waves and intermediate surfers gain complete confidence in Okinawan reef conditions.
Senior Surf Instructor
A highly experienced ocean safety and surf coach approved by Danny. Brings in-depth knowledge of local breaks, advanced wave reading techniques, and refined coaching methods to elevate your surfing.
Surfing Hall of Fame
In 2022, Danny was officially inducted into the East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame. The East Coast is known for dedicated, resilient surfers with a deep passion for the ocean.
Read Hall of Fame Profile