My husband and I called Tony, presumably the owner, shortly before coming in. Both of us are beginners and have been learning to surf. We called asking about longboards and Tony told us to come in and check out what he has. As soon as we walked in, I felt uncomfortable. He was looking me up and down and it felt he was already assessing my level of ability based on size. When we told Tony we were looking for boards he suggested soft top boards. Not a problem but we told him we had been learning on glass boards and preferred looking at those. He then proceeded to say "Oh! So you're popping up and riding waves? Wow. Not to sound like I'm better than you but most people who learn from non professionals are already doing 5/6 things wrong..." I then immediately walked out. Tony was extremely disrespectful and made my husband and I both uncomfortable. Do not recommend coming in at all. Highly would suggest not coming in if you are a woman of any larger build. Come on, Tony. Do better, please. read more

Real Deal! Tony is the guy who will give you 100% of his attention. He is a pro in what he does! Besides the surfing lesson, Tony was hospitable and let my son take a shower at his office. On top of the great experience was a beautiful sunset read more

Radfish Malibu - Georgii with Tony - Surfing Near Me - Malibu, California

What a great experience. I'd never even touched a board before and was super nervous going into my first ever surf lesson, but Tony (the shop owner and surf instructor) is SO passionate about teaching, he makes sure you have the technique down and feel comfortable before you even get in the water and his process works! I stood up from the start and rode FIVE WAVES all the way to the beach! Such a thrill. The lesson's a steal at $100 for 2 hours including the wetsuit and board, and Tony is so dedicated he ended up staying with me for almost 4 hours until I got it down. If you're looking for a true pro, Tony's your guy! Can't wait to go back :) read more

Radfish Malibu - Surfing Near Me - Malibu, California

The 3 sentence review: Great place to learn how to surf if you are a beginner...I stood up the first wave and had never surfed before. Make sure you have a flexible schedule if you want to get the most out of this experience. Tony, the shop owner and surf instructor, is very passionate about making sure his students learn the proper technique to get you surfing right away. Read below for a more elaborate review. PARKING: The surf shop is located in a strip mall and has free parking if you can find a space. PRICE: $100 for 2 hours. This is a GREAT DEAL compared to other places that provide surf lessons...and Tony ended up instructing us for over 4 hours and didn't raise the price on us. Also, wetsuits and surfboard rental is included in this $100 fee. I know right??? AMAZING!! LAYOUT OF THE LESSON: INTRO: The beginning of the lesson takes place in the surf shop. Tony starts you out stretching on a mat. Next, he teaches you the technique for how to stand on the surf board. He has you practice this routine multiple times to make sure you get it down flawlessly...muscle memory really helps when you go out on the waves. SURFING SIMULATOR: What is this, you might ask? Well you're just going to have to try out the class to see how it really works. Tony developed this device himself. Essentially it's a board on top of 2 bosu balls. When you stand on this it really allows you to feel what it's like to be on top of the waves. You practice the technique you learned earlier in the lesson on top of this simulator. Let me tell you...for someone without any surfing experience this is NOT easy! Tony makes sure you practice this until you make no mistakes. THE TEST: The test is to apply the techniques you learn in the beginning of class to the real deal. I honestly did not think I was going to stand the first wave I tried. Tony takes you out on the surfboad and teaches you how to get out into the ocean. He holds you on the surfboard until you're ready to take a wave. Before you know it, you're standing up on your first wave! It's such an amazing feeling and it feels just like the surfing simulator. I will definitely be back soon to take on more waves!!!! Tony is grrrrrreat! read more

Radfish Malibu - This was my very first wave! - Surfing Near Me - Malibu, California

I came across Tony and his shop while searching for surf lessons for my husband's birthday. I decided to go with Tony because of his AMAZING reviews and proximity to where we were staying at Calamigos Ranch in the Santa Monica Mountains. It was a quick 15 min ride down the mountain to Tony's shop. My husband LOVED his surf lesson! He spent a few hours with Tony both indoors on the simulator and out in the water. They really hit it off as Tony is as real and down to earth as it gets--as is my Indiana born husband. What my husband loved most about Tony was his hands-on instruction, his dedication to making sure you succeeded and the confidence he gives you that you can go out after your lesson and tackle some waves after. If you want a great surf lesson and have some laughs while doing it, go to Radfish Malibu Boardshop. Thanks Tony, for helping me make my husband's birthday truly memorable! read more

Radfish Malibu - Zuma Beach! - Surfing Near Me - Malibu, California

Really great experience overall. Went here for a surf lesson and was definitely not disappointed. Tony was extremely patient, caring, and basically wouldn't let me quit until I caught a wave. I ended up catching several by the end of my lesson and I couldn't be happier. It was difficult but the challenge was well worth it and I can't thank Tony enough for all his effort. He's a genuinely good guy who loves teaching and has a passion for surfing that is truly contagious. I definitely recommend him to anyone looking to get up on that wave for the first time. I promise he'll get you there read more

Radfish Malibu - Me and Tony after our surf lesson - Surfing Near Me - Malibu, California

This dude Tony redfish was super cool!!! Took the time to make sure every one was safe, well informed and prepared before hitting the water. He took photos ,videos, and Instagram live!!! Amazing time out in the waters of malibu. RADFISH -RULES- read more

If you are looking for surf lessons - definitely visit Tony at Radfish! Not only are his surf lessons extremely affordable compared to other shops, but he genuinely cares about making sure you learn how to surf, no matter how long it takes. Tony probably spent 7 hours teaching my two friends and I how to surf and all of us were standing up and catching waves by ourselves by the end. You do have to be patient and learn the fundamentals with him in his shop before going out to the beach - so be prepared for about an hour per person in your group in the shop. We spent about 2-3 hours there before going out to the beach, but it made it much easier when you're in the water. Don't forget to bring snacks and water - you'll definitely feel a bit dehydrated after being in the water for a while. Thanks for an awesome day, Tony!! read more

Wow if you have an opportunity to come out to Malibu and are in need of a teacher for stand up paddle boarding Tony is your guy. My wife and I came here to learn paddle boarding and had a superb time with Tony. The way he teaches is very understandable and actionable! We came for an early morning session and the waves might have been a little more relaxed, but regardless Tony was able to help my wife and I very effectively navigate almost as far as 200-300 yards off the coast! We also happened to see a family of whales too :D How amazing is that Pretty amazing I think! I don't remember the prices, but whatever the price is now, I am sure you will get your money's worth! Thank you Tony :D read more

Tony really cares about teaching surfing. It's clear that he has put in a lot of thought to make sure you really learn how to surf, taking you from the basics of stretching the right muscles and getting into the proper form, to the practical with a surfing simulator he designed himself, all the way into the ocean, where he tirelessly helps you catch waves and gives you dynamic instructions and feedback. We were on a rush to the LAX airport and ended up missing our flight because we had spent so much time in his lesson, which is a testament to how Tony is very detail-oriented and willing to spend time teaching us to make sure we get it right. read more

Don't even hesitate - if you're thinking of trying out surfing, Tony at Radfish is your guy! Tony's rates are more than reasonable and he will go over and beyond to make sure you are ready to rock and roll to catch your first wave. I was scheduled for a 2 hour session starting at 10AM but wound up staying with him until 2PM! There is no rush to get you in and out by a certain timeline, it's all about learning to surf and getting things right. Tony's attention to detail before you get in the water is outstanding - you'll spend time learning the position to pop up, and he also has a simulator you stand on that will give you the sensation of the movements of the water before you get in the ocean so you're not learning on the fly in the water. My friend and I each caught a bunch of waves during the time we spent with Tony. Guaranteed fun and guaranteed you'll be riding a wave before your lesson ends! read more

Simply put: Radfish Malibu is an incredible company. When it's comes to surfing Tony leaves nothing to be desired. He is at the cutting edge always up to date on all the new trends. I came to Malibu knowing nothing about surfing and in one lesson with Tony I learned how. I bought a beautiful carbon fiber and Kevlar paddle board from him and couldn't be happier. It is insanely light -- about 15 pounds -- and made about 30 minutes away from the store. I love the board and love that it was made in the USA. Whether you are looking for beach goods, surf boards, lessons, rentals or apparel this is the place to go. Tony's vast knowledge base and 50+ years of experience is on great display at Radfish Malibu. As he likes to say: he has saltwater in his veins and if you spend some time at the shop maybe you can get to that point too. TLDR: Visit Radfish for all your beach needs and expert advice. read more

Tony was a HUGE help. Not only did he help me to repair a broken paddleboard fin, he showed me how to fix it myself in the future. And he even showed me a better way to carry the board and tie down on my car. Thank you! read more

Tony is great, he spent 6 hours trying to teach me and my boyfriend how to surf. Not only he is a professional but he also cares a lot that you actually learn something. I will definitely recommend him, totally worth your money. Thank you Tony! read more

My parents took me and my sister to Radfish Malibu and we absolutely loved it! The owner (Tony) was super kind and made sure we had fun and be safe. He even said that if we went overtime, then he wouldn't charge us extra. Tony has a new way of teaching that no one has ever done before. He simulates the surfing first, then takes us to the ocean. He guaranteed that we would go to the ocean that very day. If not that day, then the very next day with no extra charge. And he kept his words. Tony is certainly a professional and knows what he is doing. - Emmanuel Kuang read more

This place is all about a great experience for anyone! Such amazing staff. Just can't say enough good things about it. Best place to go for paddle boarding and more. Glad I don't live too far from Radfish. Out-of-town guests love this experience and say it was their favorite part of their visit. read more

Tony is a wonderful coach and teacher, patient and warm hearted ; he is generous with his time. Super place for paddle - board lessons! PS : I never give 5 stars or points to anybody so my 4 might be your 5! read more

Very reasonable prices. Tony has many years doing what he does and it shows. The knowledge is amazing along with the skills and patience with first timers. Had so much of a great time out with him for a couple of lessons that I had to buy one of his sup boards. I've had it for 2+ yrs now and it is still in great shape. For my 235 lbs frame the 10' board was easy to work with and even to maneuver on surfing small waves. Still working on the larger ones. Sincerely recommend getting in contact with him for lessons. Tony is attentive, knowledgeable and devotes the water time equally on all his students. Very happy with the experience. I have been bitten by the bug all because of Tony and his instructions. Have fun and as they say "STAY SALTY!" read more

Awesome day of paddleboarding with Tony! As it was our first time he explained everything in a very straightforward way, made sure we were able to get out and back in to the beach somewhat difficult conditions, allowed us as much time as we wanted and basically looked after us from start to finish. Loves his job, good guy, would recommend paying him a visit any time you are in the area! Cheers Tony! read more

Looong overdue review. Tony "Rad"fish is awesome!! He had our family of five SUPing in no time. His instructions were spot on. Tony was engaging and skillful. His years on the water make him the go to guy for Malibu watersports. As an added bonus, he as able to take all kinds of great pictures for vacation memories. Tony also taught my son to surf. Tony, thanks for everything and we WILL return. read more

I went in to rent a surfboard and the guy at the counter was very confused, didn't know what he was doing, didn't seem to even know how to work the register, and did not provide any good customer service at all. Seemed like he may have been high or hungover or both, and he tried to charge me $80 for a 1 day rental. I laughed and told him that can't be right. He changed it down to $60, then to $45, but did so begrudgingly. Then the actual board I rented was terrible. It was extremely beat up, the foam was all torn, and the bottom was extremely scratched. $45 ought ought to get you a great board for 4 hours, not a POS. The quality of service and of the rental was very much below par. read more

You cannot say enough great things about Tony and his lessons. We learned and were made comfortable with the board, the movements, balance and safety in his shop, before heading to the ocean. The practice really paid off. We were surfing in 2 hours. Me, my wife and our 8 year old son, were all able to get on, stand up and ride on our first day out. If we had a bucket list we can scratch it off our list, but I cannot wait to do this again. read more

This was my first surf lesson and I have to hand it to Tony, he really dedicated his time to me. The surf lesson is supposed to be 2 hours long, and we spent almost 3-4 hours together. He was very thorough with everything. We started in the store and went through some different exercises so I felt comfortable before we hit the water. Then we went out into the ocean and he stayed with me the entire time. Tony wants you to feel comfortable enough so you can do it on your own and not need another lesson. Highly recommend for a first time surfer! read more

Rented out surfing boards here 45$ a board which is way too expensive as other places rent it out for 20$ around. The owner of the place Tony is the worst he doesn't know how to talk to customers and says things like "leave before I kick your ass" and this was just because I asked for a deal and he doesn't do discounts. Frustrated person with nothing going for him and he will try and sell you his surf lessons which I am sure suck too not worth taking. Never buy anything from this shop not worth it. read more

Awesome experience SUPing with Tony. He is very patient and an amazing instructor! If you are in Malibu, this is a must do! Came out with 3 teen and they all had a blast! read more

Wow, what can I say.... Tony was amazing. Took the time, had the patience, was hugely passionate, genuinely has the aim to ensure you're equipped technically and have lots of fun. Would thoroughly recommend. read more

Today was my first time paddle boarding ever! After paddle boarding and doing a great job I thought to my self, "Damn, if I would have known that I was going to paddle board this damn well I would have done my hair" lol the reason I didn't fall was because tony was a good teacher! He gave me the 5 rules, generated by his knowledge of the 5 things people do wrong automatically, and I followed them and did very well! read more

5/31/2013 Edit " Just bought a 10' paddle board from Tony, he's a really nice guy he gave us a great deal on a really nice new board great logo he even gave us some extras! Can't wait to put the board in water I'll update the review after trying out the board but if your interested in a paddle board I highly recommend Tony of Badfish SurfSup! read more

Tony took us stand-up paddle boarding and we had a really wonderful time. (We had planned for surf lessons, but the waves were too big for us beginners.) He was incredibly knowledgable and took great pride in his work. Tony was a great teacher, clearly talking us through the ins and outs of the waves, how to paddle, balance and have fun all at the same time. I feel confident that I can SUP anywhere from here on out! read more

Tony is an amazing instructor that truly explains everything in a clear and concise way. His humorously positive attitude makes the entire experience unforgettable. After having never surfed in my life, I was able to grasp the sport and ride waves after a session with Tony. I will definitely use him in the future, Radfish rocks! read more

Radfish Malibu - Learning the basics! - Surfing Near Me - Malibu, California

See all

Tony is a very professional and knowledgeable instructor, great athlete, and great person to know if you seriously want to learn to surf! We really enjoyed taking first surfing lesson with him at Zuma Beach and wanted to share the experience. Will definitely work with Tony again. First off, we only had one day to do the class, which happened to be very rough weather, 6-8 foot high waves. Several surf schools in the area said that it was impossible, that they would not take first-timers in these tough weather conditions because "it just wouldn't be any fun". Tony, however, accepted the challenge and we had a blast!! He managed it very well - he knew how to keep us totally safe, provided very attentive and detailed instruction on technique, and the two of us got in as many attempts at catching a wave as possible. We actually got above and beyond the 1 1/2 hours initially set for the lesson. I arranged the class just about 2 hours before arriving to meet Tony at Zuma Beach. He had everything ready - wetsuits, boards (already included in the very reasonable price) and was ready to jump right into instruction. From start to finish everything just went efficiently, smoothly and enjoyably! We had fun!!! I never thought it would be so easy to start learning to surf - even in the most difficult weather conditions. Just an overall great instructor to work with - knows the sport, industry and equipment inside and out. We highly recommend him and will be working with him again!! Thanks, Tony! read more

Tony is the absolute best. We got a surfing lesson from him and he was very thorough and made sure we both had a great time! Super kind and patient with us learning. Wish I could rate higher than 5 stars! read more

These guys are the best! Booked an appointment with Tony and it was awesome. Learned how to surf in Malibu and they were very patient with! Not too expensive either read more

This was an amazing experience for my boyfriend and I. Tony knows what he's doing and really cares about his work. He worked really hard to get us to stand and was clearly passionate about what he is doing. It was an amazing experience- he was also very nice and funny! And a very good and patient coach. Highly recommend!! read more

Best instructor ever! He made sure we knew everything from the basics to succeed in the sea. Ensured we were fully confident and exhausted before sending us off warmly. Thank you so much Tony! read more

We had to wait 30 minutes in the parking lot to return our rented items. The owner said he would return at 3:15 from a surf lesson but did not return until 3:50. It was upsetting because all we rented was an umbrella and an old slim board. :( read more

Recently purchased my SUP boards from Tony and got set up for an hour private session at my house. He not only delivered the boards and customized my paddles but he came the very next day for the private session. He did a session with my family and went over the allotted time making sure all of us stood up on the board and were confident turning and maneuvering the beach were we are going to go out of. He went over ocean safety profusely and I cannot stress enough how safe we feel now that we got his knowledge. More than a private session it felt like a certification and I can now teach anyone how to start with the SUP. I will for sure be getting more from him! Can't wait to get a surf lesson soon! Amazing service, amazing place and a really good person! read more

tony was such an awesome instructor. he really understands surfing which makes his teaching methods stand out among others. He took his time and made sure we really understood what we were doing and had the muscle memory before we even went to the ocean. once we got there I got up first try! by the second day I was getting up and riding on every wave i went for. his methods are full proof and different than your typical surf instructor. we were blown away! My dad and i were able to rent boards the and navigate everything on our own after one lesson which was ideal. I also was able to teach one of my friends how to surf and she got up on the first day!! his methods truly work. definitely recommend this place!!! read more

If you're looking for paddleboarding lessons in Malibu, look no further - Tony is the man! My girlfriend and I did our first standup paddleboarding lesson for my birthday and it was a blast. He gave very clear and simple instructions which made it super easy to learn. He's also a really cool guy and was easy to talk to which made the entire experience a lot of fun. Definitely recommend it! read more

Radfish Malibu - Surfing Near Me - Malibu, California

Great experience with a great teacher! If you want a truly unique, personalized and memorable Malibu adventure, call RADFISH!!! Tony, owner of Radfish, will make you feel confident and safe whatever your age or experience level. He had me and my niece up and "running" faster than I expected! After he covered water safety Tony taught us how to SUP in 5 easy steps! Once we felt comfortable enough, we even had time to enjoy the Malibu coast on our own while practicing our new sport. I can't wait to take another lesson from Tony and maybe one day get one of his handmade boards! read more

Radfish Malibu - Had a rad time with The Radfish!! - Surfing Near Me - Malibu, California