surfing french polynesia

hi surfers and party people. just looking for info on these islands .are they like bali or fiji? would u recommend them for a surfing holiday in june / july?is there backpackers or some cheap hotels.any info would help.is there breaks for beginners ? thanks a million.

If you are an absolute beginner surfer, then I wouldn't recommend many places in the islands.. Tahiti has a few beach breaks, but also many reef breaks which are fairly unforgiving if you don't know what you are doing. Also, the breaks are crowded which makes learning even more tricky! Tahitian surfers don't greet learner surfers into their waters with the same warmth as do Balinese, so be respectful if you want a wave ;-) My advice is to get some experience at home (there are waves in Ireland!) before venturing to the pacific. And no, french polynesia is not really like bali, in that it is probably the most expensive part of the pacific. Keep in mind that surf gear is incredibly expensive in french polynesia - over $AUD1200 for a board in a couple of the shops we visited! Bring your own, plus any spares (leggies etc) if you do intend to have a surf trip. Fiji is not suitable for learner surfers either, and while less expensive than french polynesia it is also way above the costs of bali.. There are relatively cheap hotels in french polynesia, but not cheap places to stay. Sorry to sound so negative..

I agree totally with poster #1.

How 'bout Hawaii? Specifically Oahu's north shore. Believe it or not its a LOT cheaper than FP, as far as a longish surf holiday is concerned.

Ed