About Makos
Our Story
Malibu Makos Surf Club began in 1991, not with a business plan—but with a passion.
Tom Corliss was a young lifeguard at a local beach club, spending his days watching the ocean and sharing his love for it with anyone who was curious. On quiet days, he’d teach a handful of kids how to surf, stay safe in the water, and respect the ocean. It started with just four kids—but the joy, confidence, and connection they found in the waves sparked something bigger.
Word spread. Families came. And from that small group on the sand, Malibu Makos Surf Club was born.
What began by chance grew into a lifelong mission: to inspire the next generation through surfing, ocean safety, and a deep love for the water.
Tom’s been a Malibu local pretty much his whole life, and over the years he’s watched his first surf students grow up to become doctors, lawyers, lifeguards — and even a few pro surfers. As a former PE teacher and coach at Point Dume Elementary , Now Malibu elementary School and Malibu High School, Tom’s always had a knack for helping kids thrive by building their confidence, self-esteem, independence, and respect — both in and out of the water. His deep love for surfing and natural gift for teaching are a big part of what makes Malibu Makos’ summer surf camp. such a special (and wildly fun) place to learn. surf camp program.
Today, Malibu Makos offers way more than just summer surf camp. We’ve grown to include private surfing lessons and group surf lessons all held at iconic Zuma Beach in Malibu, CA. From private events to one-day surfing experiences, to surf camps and lessons for both children and adults,
Whether you’re a kid catching your first wave or an adult looking to sharpen your skills, we’re all about sharing the stoke. Every session is packed with fun, good vibes, and a strong focus on ocean safety and environmental respect. Because at Malibu Makos, it’s not just about surfing — it’s about respecting and learning from the ocean every step of the way.
At Malibu Makos, we’re all about making surfing easy and accessible for everyone — that’s why we provide all the gear you need for your lesson. No need to buy anything… just show up, suit up, and begin your surfing journey.
Surf Safe. Surf Smart. Surf with Malibu Makos
At Malibu Makos, safety is everything — and fun is a close second! Our team is stacked with seasoned ocean lifeguards, pro surfers, top-tier instructors, and ocean-loving educators who are all about helping you catch waves with confidence.
Our nstructors is CPR and First Aid certified, and we’re fully insured — because your peace of mind matters just as much as your pop-up.
And here’s something no one else in Malibu can say: we’re the only surf school licensed and permitted by the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors to teach surf lessons in Malibu. Yep, we’re the real deal. That means we’ve passed the highest safety and skill standards around — and our instructors are ready for anything the ocean throws their way.
We’ve been riding the Malibu waves and teaching people to surf for over 35 years. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that great surf instruction isn’t just about catching waves — it’s about patience, positivity, and passion.
Whether you’re 3 or 73, brand new or looking to level up, we’ve worked with students of all ages, skill levels, and comfort zones. Our goal? Make every lesson safe, exciting, and unforgettable.Come join the Malibu Makos family— the water’s perfect.
We’re all about surfing — but there’s a lot more to it than just popping up on a board. At Malibu Makos, we teach ocean safety, how to respect the water, and how to take care of the beach we all love. Our instructors take the time to really connect with students of all ages, making sure they not only learn to surf but also leave with a better understanding of the ocean.
When you hang with Makos, you’re getting more than just surf skills. You’re getting:
🌊 A big boost in confidence
🧘♀️ Chill vibes, better focus
🌿 A real connection with nature
♻️ A little spark for protecting the planet
🏄♂️ A love for being active and outside
🤙 And yeah… lifelong friendships too
It’s more than just a surf lesson — it’s good times, good people, and good energy all around.
Whether you’re looking for a summer camp for your child, or want to experience surfing yourself, check out our surf camps and surf lessons for more information about what we offer.
