HangZen Surf School of San Diego:
Teaching Beginners to Experienced Surfers of All Ages
At HangZen Surf School, our enthusiastic surf instructors can help you become a better surfer, no matter your level of experience. From total beginners who have never paddled out into a line up to more experienced surfers who are looking to sharpen their skills in the water, HangZen Surf School can tailor a lesson to your individual needs and strengths. All of our lessons are taught on the pristine beaches of Encinitas, California, a picture postcard surf town that boasts some of the best waves and surfing in the world. Home to the legendary Swami’s, Cardiff Reef, and Moonlight Beach, Encinitas in the North San Diego County has earned a reputation as one of the top surf destinations in the world. HangZen Surf School specializes in delivering individualized attention to students in an enthusiastic, supportive atmosphere where students will feel comfortable and free to learn the sport at their own pace.
About Scott Hamrick:
Owner/Lead-Instructor
Scott Hamrick is an expert surfer, an experienced waterman, and a La Jolla native. By the age of fourteen he was admitted to the Wind and Sea Surf Club, one of the most prestigious surf clubs in the Untied States. Scott began competing professionally at that time, and ranked first in the YMCA Pro/Am Series in 1996 and 1997. In 1998 he went on to compete in the United States Surfing Federation, where he ranked fourth in the country. His professional career came to a halt after the birth of his daughter and a serious back injury; he decided to shift all of his energy and focus from competing professionally to sharing the gift of surfing with others through instruction. He is outstanding with children, and can get even the most timid up and surfing in no time. He is well known for doing tandem lessons with kids (see gallery page). When Scott isn't doing a surf lesson, he is either out on the ocean fishing, working at The Crab Catcher restaurant in the La Jolla Cove, or spending time with his family. Scott is deeply involved with the local community, and regularly donates lessons to charitable organizations such as Kids Korps USA and New Haven Youth and Family Services. He provides sliding scale prices to low-income households, and will waive all fees on rare occasions for passionate children with no access to funds. Scott is also a trained EMT (emergency medical technician), capable of handling any emergency situation.
