Coast Academy provides community-focused youth development programs for the Westchester/Del Rey area.  Says founder Devin Bonney, “Growing up here is such a blessing, with so many promising young peers and the beach a bike ride away”. What better way to bring the community together than to work with the next generation and take advantage of the local beachfront. “I think it’s the best way to get kids out of the house, off their phones and their computers and their ipads”.

Our beach programs are more than just a fun week in the sand: they provide valuable instruction in beach etiquette and ocean safety. It takes time and experience to feel comfortable at the beach and in the ocean. The earlier we start that education, the earlier we build those habits, the better. You’re teaching somebody lifelong skills. You’re giving someone the gift of a hobby they can enjoy the rest of their life. These programs go beyond a beach camp or a summer camp, they’re designed to have a genuine, lasting impact on kids and how they interact with their community.

Devin Bonney started Coast Academy with the goal of bringing high-quality outdoor enrichment programs to the Westchester/Del Rey community. Coming of age in Westchester, Devin learned that a day at the beach and a dip in the ocean cures mind, body, and soul. After 5 years of coach8ing at South Bay schools and summer programs, he brings administrative expertise, a passion for coaching, and love of beach-life to his hometown.

A Westchester-native and lifelong waterman, Ray Koehler brings Lifeguarding, Competitive Surfing, and Youth Instruction experience to the table. He has worked closely with Devin in an advisory role to develop excellent youth programming. He is also responsible for Coast Academy’s graphic design work.

Billy, an avid surfer and environmental researcher, leads the way on the academic side of our lesson planning. His work with EcoKai in the Ballona Wetlands Restoration Project informs “Caring for Our Coast”, where participants learn about our unique environment here in Westchester/Del Rey and how they can make a positive impact in their community.

Drew joins the team with 8 years of experience at Westchester Park coaching and administrating youth programs here in town. Working his way toward a firehouse, Drew is EMT certified and stoked to spend the summer overseeing Beach Camp.

Ava, a certified personal trainer and health food expert, joins us from New Orleans, Louisiana. She’ll advise the team on safe stretching and physical activity practices, ensuring an intentional approach to all of our exercises. In addition, she’ll provide some organic, made-from-scratch snacks and treats for coaches and campers to enjoy during their breaks.