Riding the Waves of Passion: The Story of Daniele Moscardini
The Island’s Embrace: Daniele’s story unfolds against the backdrop of Fuerteventura’s rugged beauty. Here, in the timeless dance of the sea, volcanoes and golden sands, his love affair with the ocean began. It was a connection that transcended mere sport and became a way of life. Eventually, this love would shape the entire course of his destiny in becoming a surf coach.
Today, Daniele Moscardini is a seasoned ISA L2 Surf Coach, ISA Surf Judge, FES/FCS Instructor and SLSGB Lifeguard. However, his journey is more than just riding waves. It is a tale of passion, dedication and an unwavering love for the ocean. This is his story.
A Surfer’s Genesis
From Daniele’s words:
“The first time I tried surfing I was in Italy, in Tuscany, with my uncle Damiano. I was only 10 years old, but I remember very well the feeling of the first white wave pushing me towards the beach. I felt amazing. However, I did not keep surfing consistently for a long time. Actually, I was afraid of the sea.
In 2009, I decided to go to Fuerteventura on holiday, without even knowing where I was going. I was simply looking for a place to rest and enjoy myself. However, the moment I stepped foot on the island, something magical happened. I felt at home, and at peace. I went back to Italy to graduate, but I already knew I wanted to move to the island. So I packed my life in a suitcase and jumped on an airplane.
This is when surfing came back into my life, and I got completely hooked on it. My uncle Damiano, who had moved to the island some years earlier, owned a surf school in El Cotillo. He began mentoring me for years. One day, he told me: ‘you are ready to become a teacher.’ So I became a Surf Instructor in Fuerteventura, getting my first official title here.”
Nurturing the Dream
Chasing the thrill of each wave, Daniele’s dream of becoming a well-rounded, independent surf coach took root. He pursued the path of excellence, training his skills and seeking knowledge from the masters of the sport.
For a decade, he worked tirelessly until he became Head Coach of one of the biggest schools on the island of Fuerteventura. During this time, he managed up to 40 students and 6 instructors per day, for years. Meanwhile, he studied to deepen his teaching skills, undertaking regular continuing education with other coaches, courses and self-study.
Freelancing and pursuing a new teaching approach
“After working for large surf schools for many years, I decided I wanted to do things differently. I became a freelance surf coach to teach according to my own values and personal style. This also allowed me to mentor my students 1:1. I love supporting each student in a way that is personalised and tailor-made. This way, I can bring the best out of them.”
Back in those days, Daniele already deeply believed in tailor-made, individualised and safe teaching. Because of that, he decided to become a freelancer. He wanted to step out of the simple ‘surf vacation’ or ordinary ‘surf camp’ business model. In that model, he would have had to work with huge groups and a lot of people.
Instead, he wanted something different. He wanted to create a personal connection with his students and help them flourish. To coach them, indeed. So he invested all his savings in buying surf equipment. He then started to build his own circle of an affectionate community from all over Europe.
Lifeguarding the Ocean’s Playground
Daniele’s commitment to safety is as relentless as his love for surfing. As an SLSGB Lifeguard, he stands as a guardian of the ocean, ensuring that every wave rider’s adventure is not just thrilling but also secure. His watchful eye and quick response have earned him the trust of the surfing community, making the waves a safer haven for everyone.
Indeed, becoming an Ocean Lifeguard with SLSGB entails much more in-depth training that exceeds the minimum requirement mandatory for any regular surf instructor—the simple lifesaver title. Daniele thought that it was not enough, so he took part in a 6-month training to gain this prestigious and internationally recognized title.
From Freelancer to Entrepreneur: NALU: Mind Body Surf
In 2023, Daniele embarked on a new chapter, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. Together with his partner, he opened NALU: Mind Body Surf in El Cotillo, Fuerteventura. This is more than just a surf school; it’s a sanctuary where the mind, body, and surf unite.
Daniele stands as the Head Coach, a beacon of inspiration in the water, sharing the waves with his students and collaborating with fellow coaches who share his same values. NALU is also a yoga studio, where yogic studies, breathwork, body awareness, and preparation are done with utmost respect for tradition as well as modern science.
New Surf School Philosophy in Fuerteventura
At NALU, things are done differently. There are no big groups. Instead, you get individual attention and a well-rounded, honest approach to teaching. In fact, surfing is an extreme sport. It requires a lot of prior knowledge and training, including mobility, strength, breathing techniques and mental preparation.
Ultimately, it entails becoming one with the ocean. Daniele knows this is hard to achieve in just a few days. Because of that, he tries to stay as honest as possible about expectations, teaching instructions, progression and safety. Teaching integrity sits at the heart of NALU and Daniele’s vision. So does individual attention to each student.
This approach ensures every student knows exactly what to expect. It also helps avoid ocean trauma, which is very common during surf holidays. As a result, students set achievable goals from the start. This is why NALU’s Surf Camps are small, private or semi-private experiences. It is also why Daniele created special intensive programs, called Premium Surf Coaching, only for those who want to take it to the next level. These students commit to a higher degree of training, both in and out of the water.
From Surf Instructor to Surf Coach: ISA L2 and The Judge’s Perspective
Daniele’s commitment to the surfing community extends beyond regular teaching. He took on the title of ISA Surf Judge to sharpen his ability to observe every detail. This includes surfing styles, manoeuvres and tricks. As a result, he can now teach them properly to his students. This role also increased his video analysis abilities. Because of that, he now gives well-rounded, professional feedback.
With an eagle eye for detail and a heart dedicated to fair play, he ensures every training feels like a true celebration. It celebrates skill, sportsmanship and the sheer joy of riding waves.
His journey eventually led him to earn the prestigious ISA L2 Surf Coach certification. This is the highest award a surf coach can achieve. It marked a significant step in a career dedicated to sharing the love for surfing with enthusiasts around the world.
A Wave Rider’s Life
Daniele Moscardini’s journey began as a young surfer along the Italian coast. Today, he is a well-known coach in Fuerteventura’s surfing community. His story is nothing short of inspiring.
His story teaches us something important. Surfing is not just a sport. It is a lifestyle, a passion, and a connection that transcends the boundaries between humans and nature.
As Daniele continues to ride the waves of his dreams, he invites everyone to join him. Catch the surf bug. Experience the sheer joy that comes with it.
The best surfer is the one coming out of the water with the biggest smile
