About
Melissa Whitney
I’m a Florida-born advocate for healing through sea-based therapy, grounded in a lifelong love of the ocean. Growing up, the water was my sanctuary—whether I was wakeboarding, fishing, or kayaking. I was awarded an athletic scholarship for Rowing at The University of Central Florida, where I earned the role of team captain for my last two years, learning perseverance and the power of teamwork. After college, I moved to the island of Oahu Hawaii where I competed in outrigger canoeing.
Now I call Atlantic Beach home, with my husband Nick and our two kids, Jack and Amelia, where I’m often found walking our yellow lab through the tide pools. My decision to join Surf & Solace grew from a personal wound: the loss of my beloved brother, Drew, in 2026. Drew was an avid surfer, and his spirit motivates me to help others find footing in the waves of grief.
