About

Hello!

I’m Cayla Salvador, an artist, preschool teacher, scuba diver, and underwater photographer based in San Francisco. As a wee one, I grew up in Half Moon Bay and spent endless hours at the beach perched on rocks pretending to be a mermaid. I would sing into the ocean until my voice was hoarse or the sun had long since gone down.

I’ve always felt a connection to the sea, and decided to get scuba certified in 2022 to learn more about the huge place in my heart that is filled with salt water. While diving, I was immediately struck by the busy world under the surface! Endless ecosystems; loads of critter interactions and more curiosity than I could have imagined. After the awe, I was immediately struck with the responsibility I had to protect this precious habitat.

Since then, the ocean has taken over my life in the best ways possible, from learning a new (and initialy intimidating) skill, to meeting some of my now closest friends on dive boats far away, scuba continues to show me so many beautiful people, experiences, and life lessons.

Currently my work blends research, education, and storytelling with a deep commitment to protecting our blue spaces. Whether I’m in the classroom or underwater, I’m always learning and bringing those discoveries back to my people through art, photography, and conversations. Ultimately, my hope is to spark curiosity and inspire others to fall in love with (and protect) the natural world right alongside me.

Thank you for joining me!