“There's no substitute for experience, and Tony Z has it in spades. A surfer for over 35 years, with stints in Hawaii, Tahiti, Cabo San Lucas, and El Salvador .

Zapata knows the ocean, and brings that knowledge to his surf instruction. His See-Feel-Trust methodology is wise and effective. His demeanor is light and fun. Learning to surf can be a long and brutal process. Tony Z not only accelerates it, but has you laughing as it's happening.”

“There’s something about Topanga. Intimidating but rewarding. Hard for me to believe about a year ago I had never done more than dip a toe into the ocean. None the less, swim into the surf. Beyond the break being like Mars. This is all to you. Open my eyes and heart to a whole new world. Thank you!”

“There’s more technique to surfing than it seems and the process as we’re older (50) becomes more mental than physical. Every buddy’s “expert opinion” wasn’t clicking. I’m glad I got the chance to take lessons with Tony. He’s a surfer AND a teacher. It clicked, heart, mind and soul. I am loving this process more than anything I’ve ever learned before.”

“I’ve progressed so much in a short amount of time surfing with Tony. His coaching and guidance has not only helped me learn more about surfing, but has given me the most important appreciation for the ocean. I always look forward to our sessions because I continue to learn something new and Tony always pushes me to be the best surfer I can be. Tony has given me the opportunity to be a part of the surfing community, which I am most grateful for.”

“Tony is a gifted athlete and coach. Combine this with an unparalleled knowledge of the ocean, he’s been the ultimate guide in learning to surf, and how to navigate the oceans. His unmatched physical strength, connection and spirit creates 100% trust and safety in the water, so I’ve been able to take on waves I’d never be able to challenge alone or with anybody else. He’s an incredible teacher, focused on empowering and progressing his students, and he always brings great energy for the ride. It’s been a true joy and healing experience to surf in Malibu with Tony Z.”

“Thank you Tony, much appreciated. Way to push me and providing me with the tools (both mentally and physically) to advance and excel. Looking forward to continue the journey together. Have a great rest of the week my friend 🤙!”

“Surfing with Tony is not just learning how to surf. Surfing is so much more than popping up and catching a wave. He teaches you how to coexist with the ocean- to understand her tides, current and swells; to read her mood; and to above all respect her.

I started taking lessons with Tony when I was 36. Within a few sessions I was catching my own waves and having a blast. At risk of sounding cheesy, his lessons truly changed my life. I’m hooked on surfing and I’ll never look at the ocean the same way.”

“Surfing with Big Z was a blast! His knowledge of the ocean and fundamental surfing mechanics had me shredding in no time. Whether you’re an experienced surfer looking to improve your technique or a beginner just wanting to get up for the first time, I highly recommend Big Z’s guidance. “

“Tony is very down to earth and passionate about your surfing progress! Whether it is your first time ever touching the board or you are trying to catch the next big wave, he will guide you. He’s my go to coach when I’m in Malibu. “

“Had the first of three private lessons so far. Tony Z welcomed me in a friendly manner and we went off to the beach where we started on the sand and then moved to the water. Tony was super nice and full of wisdom and good advice about surfing but also about the ocean in general. He was aware about safety the whole time while also make sure I had fun and caught some waves. Came out of the experience feeling great and can't wait for the next one!”

“THIS WAS THE BEST EXPERIENCE! Tony is the absolute best. We were all very much beginners BUT we're all able to get up multiple times by the end of the lesson! Seriously had the greatest time!”

“Got a sunday 7 am surf lesson for two people who like the ocean but had never surfed. Tony z was the best instructor, teaching us technical skills and the ways of the ocean without overwhelming us. He was also fun and personable. We were both able to stand up on our own by the end of the lesson. We had such a great time we came back for a second lesson with Tony three days later! A magical introduction to surfing, i cannot imagine a better surf lesson experience. Tony Z for the win!!!”

“I bought a couples lesson for my fiancé, Amy, and I, and it couldn't have been more perfect. I can't imagine a better spot on the planet to learn how to surf. Water was amazing. Weather was even better and Tony, our instructor, couldn't have been more cool. Amazing teacher and communicator. We were lucky to have him. I would recommend this package to any and everyone!”

“I booked a private lesson for my first time on a surfboard. Time was adjusted due to weather and tide. Parking was super convenient. We met at a gorgeous, pristine, almost completely secluded beach. Had the place to ourselves which was a HUGE bonus! I was extremely nervous because I'm in terrible physical shape and had never done this but Tony put me at ease right from the start. It was a good time from start to finish. I did this for 1.5 hours but would recommend doing two hours, and I'm not even in shape. I highly recommend spending a day doing this whether you plan to really stick with it as a sport or just as a very memorable vacation experience. You'll walk away feeling so good! Best way to spend a day in Malibu.”

“I previously took six lessons at a different surf school, and although I practiced frequently afterward, I was unable to do anything on my own. I finally booked a single session with Tony Z and it was incredible. After one session I was able to stand up on my own. In one lesson, Tony taught me more than I had learned in 6 lessons at the previous school. I bought the six more lessons after that, and in my second lesson with Tony he had me standing up on 4 foot waves confidently. I highly recommend learning to surf here. You won't regret it!”

“Tony was great! My son had a private lesson for 90 minutes and by the end was hooked.”

“Couldn't recommend it more. Tony is 1st class and got us 3 newbie Minnesotans up on the surf boards and we all had a blast. Thanks again!”

“Tony was the best instructor I've ever had. My boyfriend and I had never really surfed and by the end of our lesson we were both standing and surfing on our own! I could not recommend Tony more highly. I'm so excited to surf again with him next time I'm in town. Great service, instruction, and positive vibes!”

“Decided to treat myself to a surf lesson while visiting family in the area. I've surfed at home (Washington State), Hawaii, Mexico, and even New Zealand in the past but I am far from an advanced surfer. I always find it easier in a good way to get introduced to the area by getting out with someone who knows the breaks, swells, etc. Plus it's nice to have someone show up with a wetsuit and board for you when you're traveling. There was a slight snafu with the timing of my lesson, but Tony Z. showed up and made everything right. He went above and beyond to make sure I had a good experience. I highly recommend going out in the water with him to anyone looking for good surf tips and an easy going vibe. Will definitely be asking for Tony the next time I'm in the area visiting family and have half a day to get in the water.”

“My Fiancee and I (visiting from London) had our first surf session... ever and we couldn't have picked a better place or had a better teacher (Tony Z).

Tony Z was so calm and expert and... he did all the hard work for us so we just had to pop up on the board and stay standing :)

We were always told that "it'll take ages before you can stand on a board in the water" but we were surfing literally within the first half an hour all thanks to Tony Z!!!

A truly epic experience, stunning beach and ocean and fantastic surf coach!!!

I cant recommend it enough :)))”

“Such a great surfing lesson with coach Tony!! He was an awesome guide for our first time surfing. Helped us get up but also gave us some solo chances to get comfortable with the ocean. Already planning to take another lesson down the line and hopefully get more into surfing. Tony was enthusiastic about the ocean and sport of surfing, and gave us tons of tips and tricks on how to get more into it, as we've just moved to California. Beach is absolutely beautiful and not crowded. 11/10 would recommend!”

“Had an amazing surf lesson with my son today. Tony was our instructor for the lesson. This was the first time for both of us. Absolutely incredible experience. Tony is very patient, has a great personality, and gave great instruction in and out of the water. We both walked away knowing that we could jump on a board again and confidently surf a few waves. Even after the lesson was over my son was able to hang in the water surfing for a little longer. Thanks Tony for a great adventure. Highly recommend!”