Learn to Surf while on holiday

Hi, We want to go to a tropical island for our next trip (I've never been to a tropical island before) and I want to learn to surf while I'm there. We're in our mid to late 30s. Want somewhere chilled but with the option to do outdoor activities, specifically learn to surf at a good safe school, nothing too over populated??

Any suggestions (either on location and/or surf school)?

Basically, the tropical islands of the Pacific do not have "good, safe" places to learn to surf, as they are surrounded by coral reef, anf the surf is generally outside the reef, meaning you need to get there by boat, and/or take the risk of landing on coral. You might be better considering places on mainland Australia south of the Great Barrier Reef,(which poses the same problem). eg Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Byron Bay, none of which are secluded.

Tahiti has some good surfing spots but I have no idea about surfing instruction there. If Tahiti interests you, you could try checking out the forums at www.tahiti-explorer.com - I would think the posters there would be able to help you out. While not in the South Pacific, you could also take a look at Hawaii - maybe the islands of Kauai or Molokai if less crowds are important.

Thanks some useful suggestions and comments. I really didn't know where to start so we're also flexible on location. Just want to have a bit of active fun really
: )

There's always Hawaii ... plenty of surfing 'schools' all over Oahu and, as mentioned, the other islands as well.

Edited by: Watsoff

If you can afford it, Tahiti is magnificent. However, the magic of Hawaii should never be down-played. Go to Kauai or the more remote locations on Maui to get a more pristine feel of the Islands. Both have great places and schools to learn how to surf . If you want an authentic pacific island experience, do all you can to avoid Waikiki and the majority of Oahu. Do yourself a favor and see the REAL pacific island culture. You'll thank yourself. Much love and aloha.