Scotty is as good a surf coach as you'll find anywhere in the world, not just in SoCal. The best part is that he works exceptionally well with all skill levels, from first-time surfers to advanced surfers seeking larger waves and tow-in experience to maximize wave count. Personally, he coached my daughter for years, and she was riding head-high waves at just seven years old. Additionally, I've had the opportunity to fish with him on numerous occasions, and we almost always return with multiple yellowtail. Scotty is the true definition of a waterman and, more importantly, a genuine human being with a heart of gold. I highly recommend Scotty for your Encinitas and North County SD surf lessons at any level, as well as for an outstanding San Diego and Oceanside fishing experience. read more

​Scotty came highly recommended by my cousins who are Encinitas locals - their son took lessons from him and knew he'd be the perfect fit for my 6-year-old son and me. And they were absolutely right! ​We had an absolute blast. It was our very first time surfing, and Scotty was incredibly thorough and attentive to my son, which I deeply appreciated as a parent. He kept the focus on safety while ensuring we learned a ton and shredded plenty of waves. We will definitely be back for more lessons with Scotty on our next trip up from Florida! read more

Hang Zen Surf + Sea - Me and my 6 year old son with the best surf coaches around in SoCal! It was our first time and we had an absolute blast. - Surf Schools Near Me - Encinitas, California

I took a lesson from Scott at Hang Zen Surf School in February, 2023. I am an intermediate surfer and taken lessons from a few different instructors. Scott was the best instructor that I have had. In addition to providing insight on the mechanics of surfing, things like popping up and paddling, Scott worked with me on building wave catching knowledge. Reading the wave as it comes toward you, being in the right position and paddling at the right time, not too soon, but not too late. I was able to catch the best rides of my life during the lesson, partly because of the waves, and partly because Scott coached me on to them. He also shared his thoughts on how to get along with the other surfers and the surf culture in general. The lesson helped my surfing and I'm pretty sure I'll be thinking about what Scott taught me every time I go out surfing for a while. read more

Scott and his crew helped me improve my wave catching/choosing abilities, technique as well as providing with me some in depth knowledge on surfing. For anyone trying to improve their surfing or anyone learning from scratch, this surf school is an exceptional place. The level of experience and welcoming environment here are hard to beat. read more

I was nervous to get in the water, but took a lesson yesterday with Scott & had so much fun! He's a natural with kids, but I would recommend his school to people of all ages looking to learn or improve upon their existing skills, he'll get you up in no time! I left feeling confidant and excited to to surf again. read more

Scott and his crew were amazing. They were extremely professional and you could really see they knew their craft. They made us all feel safe and comfortable even though the waves were a little bigger than they were expected for the day. I really liked their teacher to student ratio and willingness to adjust to your skill level. For me this was a big plus, because I am not a surfer and this was truly my first real surf experience. I enjoyed the Hang Zen Experience and would recommend them to anyone. If you are looking for skilled surfers and you want a exciting surf experience go with these guys. read more

It's not easy to find a surf instructor who is 100% invested in transmitting to you this life-long skill. I have been surfing with Scott for almost 3 years and knew I had picked the right teacher on day one when he took me out to catch real waves as a total beginner. I have been a loyal student ever since. His knowledge of the sport is solid gold and his love for it is infectious. Not to mention he treats his students like family. Thanks Scott. read more

My husband and I took lessons from Scott & Nick in February 2014. This was our first attempt to surf and they were both so patient with us. After an intro on paddling and jumping up, they took us right out in waves (no messing around in the white wash) and got right to it! We were quickly out there with all the real surfers catching some waves. They gave us some great advice that allowed my husband to go out on his own with confidence. Scott is a phenomenal teacher and seems to have a real passion for what he does. read more

Just fantastic! Took my wife and two kids, 10 and 7 surfing for the morning with Scott and his crew last week. He had the kids up on the boards in minutes. Very attentive instructors, vigilant and fun with the kids. Would HIGHLY recommend Hang Zen (also known as La Costa Surf School or www.lcsurf.com). Really made our vacation one to remember. Thanks Scott! read more

I had a fantastic experience with Scott and his crew at Hang Zen on a recent family vacation to Encinitas. I've surfed previously but I was looking for a great introductory lesson for 7 other family members that had never surfed before. Scott came highly recommended as someone who would be great for a large group, and as someone with the experience and passion to ensure a great first time out for everyone. He didn't disappoint. He came prepared with 3 other instructors as promised, as well as the proper sized boards and wetsuits for everyone. After a short introduction to the sport on the beach they spent the rest of the session with us in the water, making sure everyone got adequate time in the surf, and catering to everyone's level and abilities (including taking me and my brother-in-law to the outside break). If I lived in the San Diego area I would definitely be contacting Scott for follow up lessons, and I hope to have the chance to work with him again in the future. Thank you Scott and team! read more

Hang Zen Surf School is the best! Scott is dedicated and patient. He has been giving my 14 year old son lessons for a year. The improvement and knowledge that my son has gained is amazing. Scott is personable and an all-around great person. He and his staff will take the time to tailor to your needs. Definitely recommend. read more

Scott and nick were great instructors!! Very nice down to earth guys. First time for me (over 60) and loved it. My grandson (8.5) is a natural, so he was surfing every wave. Would love to do this again, we were in a great surfing area. This is a perfect something to do when in northern San Diego area, 2 hour session and reasonable price and I do recommend one on one to get the most out of your attempt at surfing. Thanks guys and hope to see you again and last a little longer. read more

With the resort recommendation, we booked my 16 year old daughter lessons with Scott. He was very attentive and fun. Scott had her surfing in minutes, as he enthusiastically cheered. It was so natural. My daughter was able to get a lot of info quickly and felt safe about it to challenge herself. Scott challanged her at the right pace. She cannot stop talking about it. We have great pictures to take back east. Memorable . She took to it . It was a pleasure to meet you. She has the bug now wants to get back out there Thank you! read more

Amazing!!!! The guys are great. My 6 year old took his first lesson last weekend and he loved it. He was scared to even get on the board and by the end he was standing up. OK, it was only for 1 second but he did it. We can't wait to take our next lesson. read more

My 11 year old twins took lessons from Chris and Erik, and they were GREAT! They had my kids on the board within minutes, and my kids really loved them. Agree with other reviews re: how attentive and fun the instructors are with the kids. Also wanted to say how absolutely wonderful Scott is. He took time to talk to me about the lessons, and really knows how to work with kids. I HIGHLY recommend Hang Zen. My kids can't wait to return next year! Thanks, Scott, Chris and Erik! read more

My wife and I had a two hour surf lesson and had the best time possible! It was our first time surfing, and the instructors were caring, fun, encouraging, and excellent teachers. They gave us the confidence that we could excel, and made us feel great about our improvements. They got us to stand up on the board and surf the waves within the first half hour! To demonstrate their caring nature, after the lesson we couldn't find our car keys, and they said they would not leave us until we found them. They then gave us a gatorade as we were waiting for our car to be towed. We just had an amazing time surfing!!! read more

If you want to take surf lessons in Encinitas you can't get more soulfully organic than Scotty Hamrick. I just got off the water with him. From the structure of the reef below us, to the intricate action of the waves we rode, and on up to a study of the clouds above us, spending time on the water with Scotty is always more than just a surf lesson. He greets everyone like they're already a lifelong friend. Today I took a solo lesson, but I first met Scotty in 2011 when he and his crew took out 30 ski industry pros as part of our annual national convention in La Costa. Everyone raved about the two-hour surf camp, and it was as easy as showing up in the parking lot. Scotty and his crew are full-on pros, and took care of all the rest, even including tips on where to eat and drink afterward. Big props to Hang Zen Surf School...see you soon Scotty! stoked. aloha. read more