TESTIMONIALS
Rocky brings a tremendous skill set on top of his easy going, friendly way which makes our participants feel safe and cared for while surfing with him. Rocky has also been instrumental in helping us develop our tandem surfing with children with special needs best practices and sharing these skills and insights with our volunteer surfers. Rocky's skill and charm help us create Best Days for everyone.
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— Brooks Lambert
Founder, Best Day Foundation
Our Hawaiian culture revolves around the ocean. To understand the oceans moods takes years to learn and a lifetime to master. This information has been passed down from generation to generation. Rocky McKinnon always respected our Hawaiian culture and admired our Aloha Spirit. This made it easy for myself and other elite Hawaiian Watermen to share with Rocky what it means to live Aloha in and out of the water. If you are looking to progress your knowledge of surfing. Rocky has the ability, talent and experience to help you reach your goals.
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— Brian Keaulana
Waterman Extraordinaire, Lifeguard, Stunt Coordinator, Tandem Surfing World Champion, Hawaiian Legend
Our company President, Isao Nagasako, is an avid surfer and paddler who wanted to share his love of the sport with our employees while also building work relationships. We arranged a group lesson with Rocky that was a great experience for everyone. Rocky provided all of the equipment and had enough staff on hand to ensure personalized attention regardless of skill level. We highly recommend this activity to any organization looking for a unique way to strengthen bonds between co-workers and management, while doing something healthy in an outdoor setting.
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— Alpine Electronics of America
(Corporate Group Lesson)
Rocky showed up to our party with numerous boards of all different sizes and greeted everyone with a warm smile. He made the complete novice feel comfortable participating in SUP for their first time. He also was a wealth of information for those who wanted to know more about the sport from equipment to paddling techniques. I highly recommend Rocky for what ever event you are planning and he is a great ambassador for the sport.
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— Futures Fins
(Corporate Group Lesson)
After moving to Huntington Beach, I wanted to learn how to surf. I went out with a surfer friend thinking I could pick it up fairly quickly, but instead, I ended up getting pummeled by waves. A coworker referred me to Rocky McKinnon and on day one I learned critical ocean safety skills, wave mechanics, and even popped up to my feet! Rocky has that special “something” that stems from his authentic love and passion for the ocean, surfing, and his students. I’m inspired every day to be the surfer that he saw inside of me over a year ago.
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— Melissa Solano
Private Lessons
Rocky demonstrated exceptional preparation and group management, handling our groups with ease and professionalism. His focus on safety was evident throughout, with clear instruction and attentive oversight that made even first-time (and sometimes nervous) surfers feel secure and supported.
What truly sets Rocky apart is his ability to foster confidence and inclusion. He created an environment where every participant felt welcome, regardless of skill level. His encouraging approach helped our team members step outside their comfort zones and connect with each other in a meaningful way.
The customer service provided by McKinnon Surf & SUP Lessons was outstanding. Rocky’s communication was timely and thoughtful, and his ability to adapt to the needs of our group made the experience seamless and enjoyable. His presence and professionalism were especially appreciated by our senior leaders, who noted the positive impact of the surf experience on team morale and cohesion.
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Lynn Hochrine
Manager, Employee Events & Ops
REI
(Corporate Group Lesson)
As someone who had never surfed before, I was immediately impressed by Rocky’s ability to make the ocean feel approachable and safe. He took the time to teach me how to read the ocean—understanding the waves, the currents, and how to position myself for success. That foundational knowledge not only improved my surfing skills but gave me a deep respect for the water and the sport itself.
Because I’m a bigger-sized athlete, Rocky made thoughtful adjustments to my training, including setting me up on a larger, more stable board that fit my frame and skill level. This personalized approach allowed me to learn faster and with more confidence than I ever expected.
In every way, Rocky represents the best of what the City of Huntington Beach stands for -- community, skill, and passion for the ocean.
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— Carson Anderson
TNT FIREWORKS- PRESIDENT
Rocky’s instruction goes far beyond the basics of riding a wave. He emphasizes water safety, ocean awareness, and respect for the environment, instilling in our young participants a deeper appreciation for the ocean and their own abilities. His patient and encouraging teaching style helps each child feel confident, regardless of their experience level, and his passion for surfing is contagious
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Rocky has demonstrated generosity toward our organization. His continued commitment to supporting access and opportunity for local youth reflects his genuine community spirit and dedication to giving back.
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We are deeply grateful for Rocky’s partnership and the positive influence he brings to our youth. His professionalism, compassion, and dedication to service make him an exceptional role model, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration for many years to come.
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— Ryan Brenes, COO
Boys & Girls Clubs of Huntington Valley
As the founder of A Great Day in the Stoke —the largest
gathering of Black surfers in the world—I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with
Rocky and his team for the past four years. Their professionalism, surf instruction
expertise, and commitment to community engagement have been vital to the success of
our annual event.
Each year, McKinnon Surf & SUP Lessons plays an essential role in creating a safe,
supportive, and welcoming environment for both new and experienced surfers
participating in A Great Day in the Stoke. Under Rocky’s leadership, his instructors
demonstrate patience, skill, and genuine enthusiasm that empowers our participants—
many of whom are surfing for the first time—to build confidence and connection with the
ocean.
Rocky is a true community advocate who uses surfing as a bridge for inclusion, education, and empowerment. His support of our mission to increase representation in aquatics and surf culture has helped us expand access and inspire the next generation of surfers.
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— Nathan Fluellen
Founder, A Great Day in the Stoke
For years, Hearts For Sight has partnered with McKinnon Surf & SUP
Lessons to host our annual Surf Clinic for the Blind and Visually Impaired. This
has become one of the most anticipated events within our wellness and outdoor
recreation programs, creating a space where blind and low-vision participants can
build confidence, connection, and joy in the ocean.
The McKinnon Surf & SUP team consistently demonstrates professionalism, adaptive
teaching expertise, and genuine care for the individuals we serve. Their instructors
thoughtfully adapt techniques to ensure safety and accessibility, while fostering a
supportive learning environment rooted in dignity and empowerment.
The impact of this approach is reflected in the enthusiasm and growth of our participants each year.
Hearts For Sight Foundation truly appreciates the dedication
and collaborative spirit of McKinnon Surf & SUP Lessons, and we look forward to
continuing this relationship for years to come.
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— Joseph Burton, LCSW
Executive Director
Hearts For Sight Foundation
