Master Arango is truly phenomenal! My son, who is autistic, is very particular about how he communicates and how others speak to him--but Master Arango connected with him effortlessly. It was amazing to see how naturally she understood and supported him. What we appreciate most is her ability to turn everyday moments into meaningful life lessons for the kids. Her passion genuinely shines through in everything she does. We feel incredibly grateful and fortunate to have her in our lives. The entire CKA team is wonderful! read more

Fabulous experience! We signed up our son who had a friend attending CKA and it was one of the best decisions we've made as parents for him. He struggled with focus and discipline and within weeks we began to see improvement in those areas. Master Arango is a phenomenal instructor, but the whole team has been extremely friendly and professional. Our son is eager to attend each session, and we love watching him learn new skills that make him stronger and give him self-confidence. The lessons learned extend far beyond the Dojo. CKA is a remarkable organization that I would highly recommend to anyone. read more

This place is great, my son trained here for over 2 years. The instructors, Master Arrango and her assistant instructor Mr. (Bowman?) are incredible with kids. They are patient and understanding and great at boosting the kids' self confidence while instilling self discipline, focus, and respect. Overall fantastic studio and hope one day my son will take interest in it again! read more

I've been training there for a while, and overall a good place they work well with kids. Adults are also able to train.

Fantastic family like atmosphere. Wonderful genuine teachers who find the right balance to keep it fun while giving their students structure, encourage respect for each other and strengthen resilience and discipline. We also appreciated how well the older students supported the younger ones and that the studio enables them to be role models by involving them in teaching. We are so glad our daughter gets to attend this school and we are blown away how it changed her in a positive way. She always looks forward to going, which speaks for itself. read more

My son is 17 and has been attending CKA since he was 7 yrs old. SBN Mikita, her husband and the entire team have played a huge role in my son's confidence and self awareness. My son has earned his black belt and his journey is coming to end with CKA but the lessons will stay with him forever. One of the best decisions to sign my son up. I have 3 younger babies and once they are old enough and we still live in the area best believe all my kids will be joining. read more

We love going to the Vista location because it is so close to home. Instructors are friendly, knowledgeable and full of energy. This academy was recommended by a friend and I'm glad we listened because my kids enjoy every lesson! read more

I highly recommend California Karate to anyone! I signed my child up for the trial week and because they have anxiety they had a panic attack at the first class and were unable to even start class. I received a text from the owner and she offered to do a private class to get my child accustomed to the studio and feel more comfortable. After that class my child felt so much more confident and they have been going strong for almost 6 months. Initially there were a couple of panic attacks but instructors at both the Vista and Oceanside location have been absolutely amazing with them, and so supportive. My child now leaves class so happy and excited to continue this journey towards their black belt, and their confidence has increased tremendously! I can't imagine going anywhere else, Sah Bum Nim Mikita, Coach Brent, Sah Bum Nim Arango, Kyosa Nim Royal and all of the assistant instructors are the most amazing team that make you feel like part of an amazing family. Being able to take classes at either location is tremendously helpful as there are so many to choose from and you cannot beat the price! read more

I recommend California Karate Academy!!! The instructors are absolutely amazing and take time to work and teach proper skills for a successful future. I highly recommend California Karate Academy. read more

My daughter and son have both been attending California Karate Academy for a few months now, and feel like we have hit the jackpot. The instructional quality is excellent. The kids are learning so much, and having a blast doing it. They are working on useful self defense skills as well as the disciplined beauty of forms (sequences of moves), language, technique, athleticism, perseverance, self-management, and more. They have made friends in class, and also see a lot of familiar faces from school and other activities we've been involved in. I also have to say how thrilled I am that there are so many strong women and girls here at the studio - excellent role models for both my daughter and my son. It is a thrill to see women who are third and fourth degree black belts teaching these kids how to defend themselves, modeling how to show respect to others and also commanding respect in return, all while teaching so many skills and life lessons - in a way the kids love. The entire staff here is top-notch. Stoked to be a part of California Karate Academy. If you're on the fence, DO IT! read more

We love it here. It's great for my daughter and she's always excited to attend every class!

My kids have gone to CKA since they were 3, they're now 11 and 9. I cannot thank the instructors enough for instilling discipline, rigor, grit, and so much more for the last 8 years. I fully believe that my kids would not have the confidence they have now in so many other areas of life had it not been for CKA. Thank you to all the staff! read more

The staff here could not be more professional and welcoming!! We've been coming here for a bit over a year for a mix of virtual and in person classes and our daughter has grown from strength to strength! Besides being great exercise she has learned about self discipline, respect and hard work while increasing her confidence in her own abilities. Strongly recommended!!! read more

California Karate Academy - Karate Near Me - Vista, California

Choosing CKA was one the the best decisions we made for our son! The confidence, skill and discipline he learned there over the last 4 years was everything we had hoped for and more. We personally liked that the lessons were more structured than other studios we tried out. For kids it's the perfect balance of hard work and fun. I would highly recommend them to anyone (kids, teens and adults) as the instructors and owners are incredible. read more

California Karate Academy - Karate Near Me - Vista, California

Our son Liam started at California Karate Academy when he was 4. He is now 6 and has learned so much confidence, integrity, and dedication from this studio. Everyone that works at the studio has taught my son at some point and he absolutely loves and respects each one of them. At 5 he had the confidence to go to a tournament and compete against other studios. Their dedication to him showed, and he felt very prepared and came home a winner! We love this studio and everyone in it! Highly recommend California Karate Studio! read more

We have been part of the CKA family for over 3 years. We cannot thank SBN Mikita, SBN Arango, Coach Brent and their entire staff enough for the care, discipline, skill and confidence that the experience has given to both of my sons. I highly recommend this studio for anyone looking to start or continue their karate journey. read more

Amazing place to learn martial arts, discipline, and self confidence! Instructors are all incredibly patient and helpful with every student. If I could recommend any studio to practice karate it would definitely be this one! read more

This place is fantastic and the instructors are soooo good with the kids! My son has learned leadership, focus, discipline, pride, and most importantly confidence by going here. They reiterate to the kids how important it is to listen to parents and their teachers, not just in karate. I'm a single mom and the instructors here are more than that, they are my backups. All the kids know if they don't listen also at home and in school they will go back in belt colors and that's a big deal to them! I had my son's 6th birthday party at the karate studio and everyone had a blast. My son's smile cutting his birthday cake with a samurai sword was priceless!! read more

California Karate Academy - So proud! - Karate Near Me - Vista, California

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My sons and I started at CKA a few years ago as red belts when we left our previous karate studio after change in management. We were looking for a studio that was as passionate about the art as we were and was not just in to make money by charging us per class and belt test. We certainly found that at CKA! Here, you will find intense, animated and zealous instructors who care for you as a person and a martial artist. You won't find a more enthusiastic mentor than Kerrie Mikita, the owner of the studio. With her is a caring and dynamic team of skilled practitioners with many years of experience, as well as younger black belt teachers who have been personally trained by Sabom Nim Mikita and who have learnt and are learning valuable life skills like leadership, discipline and compassion. I consider CKA to be an extended family now and highly recommend this studio to anyone who wants to make Tang Soo Do a part of their life. read more

California Karate Academy been a wonderful experience for my family. My daughter was in little dragons for 1 year and my 8 year old son was in little dragons and now moved up to adult classes. My 8 year old son has learned disciple and respect. He loves going to karate and is now apart of the black belt club. The instructors are thoughtful and know every students name. I highly recommend this studio. read more

You will not be disappointed if you join Califonia Karate Academy. They have a studio in Vista and Oceanside. The Oceanside studio is a new studio just recently opened. Chief Instructor Royal Has been running studio since it opened in June. He is extremely personable, awesome with the kids, and very easy to work with. He is extremely knowledgeable in what he teaches, and also very passionate. I highly recommend this studio to anyone and everyone. Royal is the best!!! read more

Our son just began classes here and is having a blast. He is learning self discipline, maintaining focus, and developing self defense techniques. The instructors ensure the students are engaged in learning and striving to do their personal best. I highly recommend this Academy for all ages and levels. read more

I have trained in martial art for many years. California Karate Academy (CKA) is one of the best places I have ever trained. The instructors are professional, clarify all instructions in a very positive way, and genuinely care about students. The camaraderie at the school is exceptional with students helping each other to learn Tang Soo Do in a fun and positive environment. read more

Great place for new kids! My son loved it. This place practices Korean terms instead of Japanese terms. They're very patient and helpful with my son, and he's only 4 years old. There's many classes to choose from and days to attend. Trial is a little less than $50 for 3 classes in 2 weeks. read more

Excellent professional facility We just signed our son a few months ago for classes and could not be more pleased with the whole experience. The instructors are always very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. If you're interested in Karate, discipline, and respect give the California Karate Academy a look. You will not be disappointed. Highly recommended in all aspects!!! read more

I have never been so happy with Karate until I brought my son here. Master Karl Courage and Kyosa Nim Mikita are the best and very friendly. Brittany is awesome. They made a connection with me and my son when we first met them. We did the trial for 3 classes at $29. Very reasonable. They are committed to every single student. They're fair and make the students feel like they're soooo important bec they are! They also teach individuals with special needs and always put a smile on their face. In fact, all students and families who attend CA Karate Academy are family. Thx team! read more

My son has been enrolled in this awesome academy for the past 3 months and I am beyond impressed with the staff. They all have a genuine interest and dedication to setting each individual student up for success. I can't thank them enough, I highly recommend this school. I can't wait to continue to see my son grow not only in his karate skills but as an individual. read more

Prior to my daughter attending karate classes at California Karate Academy I knew NOTHING about karate. I wasn't even sure if my daughter would enjoy it, but we took advantage of the 4 week trial and she absolutely loved it! I really can't say enough about the staff, each and everyone of them are so patient and attentive to the kids in class. Exhibiting a lot of patience to help the children learn the art of karate. All of the classes are well structured and they are able to make learning fun. The self discipline and confidence that my daughter has acquired while attending classes here is invaluable! They do "Bring a Friend" classes and I had the privilege to attend with my daughter, it was SO much fun! I highly recommend this school! read more

My son started here almost a year ago. I like that all instructors created an environment where each person learns respect, honor and discipline, while having fun. My son feels pride when instructors compliment him and works hard to test for his next belt. Now hi goes to the Black Belt Club, hooray! I adore Master Karl Courage and Kerri Mikita for all the attention they have given my family. I recommend this Karate Academy if you want your child to be pushed to be their personal best. read more

We love these guys. Master Karl and Ms. Mikita are such high energy positive teachers for our two kids. My nine year old girl adores Ms. Mikita...it's nice for her to see such a strong female role model. And we love the culture of discipline and respect. We were going to another studio when we lived up in Oregon but these guys blow them away. And the studio is always spotless too. read more

My daughter and I have know Master Karl for over 10 years and Ms Mikita nearly 7. In my opinion there are no more impactful and positive mentors and role models that you could have your child train under. My daughter started at 3 1/2 with Master Karl and trained consecutively for over 7 1/2 years achieving her Black Belt degree. She loved the energy, the engagement, the challenge, and the ability to achieve an increased sense of self every time she was able to earn a new colored belt. The focus on the studio to build charachter, learn proper Tang Soo technique, and to always put your best effort forward has provided my daughter with the foundation to be an excellent student, leader in her church youth program, valued member of her school volleyball team, and a very personal and positive 15 year old that is just a joy to be around. As a parent that has had a career centered around youth activities and development, I am so grateful we committed to this program at an early stage of Shannon's childhood development.The self esteem, manners, coordination, and self confidence where surpassed only by the fun and sense of inclusion she felt every time she crossed the studio threshhold, bowed, and respectfully gestured her Tang Soo salute to her teachers. There is no better lessons for a young person to learn than to respect yourself and others, always try your best, and to build positive habits, which sometimes means showing up at your lessons even when you would rather be home doing something else, That discipline has served her well, in both her academic and extra curricular activities, and in instilling a belief that she can she can achieve whatever goals she is willing to work for. Over the years, I have received so many compliments for my daughter's enthusiasm, tenacity, and willingness to help others and each time I think of the countless teachers, coaches, and mentors who patiently shared their time and knowledge with Shannon to impact the wonderful teen she is today, but no one had a greater influence than Sabonim Karl and Ms Mikita, two very exceptional individuals. It has been a privilege to know them and a real blessing that my daughter had the benefit of spending her most important formative years under their tutelage. Sign up for see six months and experience the transformation, growth, and difference this program can make. Never mind how cool your kid looks in the their little Karate gis/uniforms. read more

I was looking for a good activity to help build confidence for my 3 year old. After his first 30 minute class I saw a difference in his listening skills, his language, and his confidence. A few months in now, and I'm so pleased with the balance they have struck with all of the kids there. All the coaches have incredible patience with the kiddos and adjust to each kiddos need; allowing parents out on the mats to help when needed and stepping in for parents if kiddo is becoming to dependent on them. They mix skills and fun, and instill discipline whenever needed as well. I truly cannot say enough wonderful things about this place: Happy to have found found them read more

Ms Mikita and Master Courage put so much time and effort and positive energy into this studio that I am amazed every time I bring my son to class. How they motivate and focus the kids and teach them so many skills while keeping it fun is tiring just to watch. They also offer so many options to parents like "Ninja Nights", pickup from Stars Montessori, family classes and adult classes, yoga, birthday parties, and day camps for school holidays. My son is small for his age but he's proud of his skills and I like the "Yes ma'am!!" that sometimes carries over outside of the studio. read more

We started karate because this place opened and was very convenient. We love it! What great instructors, Mikita and Master Courage, they are amazing teachers with kids. We have a 3yo and he attends 30 minute sessions up to three times a week. We even did a "Ninja Night" (parent's night out) where we took our older 5yo son and they had a blast. This is a great Karate academy. read more

I cannot say enough about this wonderful place. My 4 year old son started here in June 2017, and still absolutely loves it. I must admit I was kind of scared to start him at such a young age. I was blown away by his first trial lesson. The teachers were so great with him, he loved it so much. The classes are age appropriate and the tiny kids are never mixed in with older kids.They really know how to bring out confidence in the kids, and keep their interest. Never once has he used his karate skills inappropriately and he's even saying yes sir/ma'am at home. I couldn't have imagined all the ways karate would help my son grow to be a respectful confident young man, but he's already there now. Everyone here is 100% dedicated to his success, and it's a wonderful environment to be in. read more

My son has been learning karate here for about a year and a half. I am so thrilled with this place. The instructors are extremely energetic, positive, and really get to know each child. The atmosphere is so positive. The students learn more than martial arts. They get lots of exercise, practice meditation, work on positive character traits like integrity, honesty, and gratitude, all in a fun and respectful environment. I highly recommend. It is worth every penny. My son has grown immensely, inside and out, during his time at CKA. read more

This is a wonderful karate school. Although it is a bit of a drive from Escondido to Vista I am happy to do it because of the positive changes I see in my child. The facilities are great but better yet the owners/instructors are awesome. The care and time that they put forth for their students is admirable. My child's progress after just a few months is truly amazing. Many kids have trouble focusing and following instructions but at this school respect and discipline is required. That being said it is also a fun place to be with lots exciting things going on. I wish I could give more stars to this wonderful studio. Check it out . read more

The ENTIRE STAFF is phenomenal!!! I have been to 3 other facilities & this by far exceeds all my expectations. They teach life lessons, not just karate. I love the program. Master Courage & Ms Makita are top notch instructors & run the program to perfection. Thank you. read more