Mathilde Hamdi | Surf Coach
From France
What is your role in the Salty Souls Experience?
As the surf coach on some of our retreats in El Salvador and Bali, I get the amazing opportunity to share my knowledge of the ocean and help the girls safely improve their surfing. I’m there to make sure you have the best time during surf sessions and to support you in pushing your limits if you’re up for it!
What’s your background and how did you acquire those skills?
I’ve been surfing for 13 years, having started “late” at 22 when I moved from central France to Biarritz to chase my dream of learning to surf. Best decision I’ve ever made! Since then, I’ve surfed daily whenever possible, traveling the world to ride new waves and experience different cultures. I spent three years living in Playa Las Flores, El Salvador, where my surfing truly progressed, I met my Salty Souls friends nine years ago, and even competed in the Salvadorian national surf circuit.
I recently completed my ISA (International Surfing Association) certification, which helps communicate my surfing knowledge more effectively and bring even more value to my coaching.
Biggest challenge within the Salty Souls Experience?
My first experience as a surf coach at a surf camp — a dream come true! I’m thrilled to take the girls out surfing, helping them improve while having a blast.
The biggest challenge remains the unpredictability of the playground. The waves and conditions follow their own agenda, always keeping us on our toes!
Ninja super skill people don’t know you possess?
I have a knack for killing scorpions with a machete (and I actually enjoy it, haha)! I’m also open-minded, empathetic, and a great listener, always aiming to understand everyone’s perspective without judgment. I’m all for deep, meaningful conversations—let’s dive in!
Favorite place in the world?
El Salvador is definitely one of my favorite place ! I had the best waves of my life there! Indonesia, Reunion island, Mauritius, Panama, as you can tell, tropical places ! Home, Biarritz, is amazing too!
What gets you the most excited in life?
Surfing, hands down! Especially when I get to share it with friends. I love the unpredictability of life and the constant potential for change and growth. Learning from others, sharing experiences, traveling, picking up new skills, and being surrounded by good people, good food, dogs, and fresh challenges — that’s what keeps me energized!
What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done?
Oh ! I might have a few things ahah ! Going on a 6 months surftrip through Central America, that turned into a 4 years trip ! Everyone in France said “you can’t do that”, well I did ! And I learned so much. I rescued over 17 dogs during my three years in El Salvador, and brought back to France my two salvadorian dogs!; Driving a scooter in Bali after eye surgery, so driving with only one eye in crazy traffic; Hopefuly more to come!
