Is surfing listed on your new year's resolutions, we got you!
The world literally and figuratively seems to be on fire, so why not seize the opportunity to make your "Point Break" dreams come true while you still can? Although it is not possible to teach an old dog new tricks, it is never too late for humans to try to balance on a surfboard, if only for a few fleeting moments. Here are some of the most suitable planetary spots for beginners to paddle and surf.
Seminyak, Bali
Double Six Beach is a paradise for surfing beginners, located in everyone's paradise: Bali. The waves are constantly breaking. Better yet, private tutoring and board rental won't ruin your budget. The water temperature is pleasant. Surf (or at least try) all morning or afternoon, then recover with a fresh coconut on land, or an Indonesian lunch at Warung Murah's just up the street. The area is full of hotels a few steps from the beach, such as Royal Beach Seminyak Bali, where accommodation ranges from affordable guest rooms to villas with ornate Balinese doors.
Waikiki, Hawaii
There is probably no place easier to learn to paddle than Waikiki Beach - no breaking waves on the horizon. Here, the setting is set for your success: the water is warm, the weather is perfect and you will be surrounded by other beginners who will not judge you. If the Royal Hawaiian with its bright pink facade is full, get off at Moana Surfrider (for the name first, but also for the seaside location and the huge porch where you can squat on a deckchair).
Byron Bay, Australia
Head to the land of Tim Tam (the chocolate cookie brand) and Vegemite (the very salty dark brown yeast-extract spread) for a novice approved surf vacation. Byron Bay, in southeast Australia, is one of the most famous surf spots in the world. If the radiant blue water is relatively attractive to newcomers, you will make the most of your visit by taking lessons at Soul Surf School. The four-hour sessions will cost you about forty euros. The rest of the time, relax in your nearby cottage, also known as The Atlantic Byron Bay, a sunny hotel where you can play surfers.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
There is nothing worse than trying to learn to surf while thinking about avoiding rocks or falling on a steep coral. (You saw the movie Without Sarah, nothing is fine, right?) These problems don't apply when you're here. Settle down at Andaz Costa Rica Resort on the Papagayo Peninsula, a luxury seaside hotel on a lush hillside. The Andaz brand has just teamed up with RED, Bono's non-profit association and Bobby Shriver who is fighting AIDS, so that you can feel slightly altruistic during your holiday. Book a room and the hotel will donate 30% of the rate to the charity; you will get a credit of just under €90 for a spa, plus free cocktails, juice and meals served in your cabin.
San Onofre, California
Some surf spots have scary names like Jaws and Cyclops. Avoid these if you've never surfed before, and prefer something infinitely cooler like San Onofre State Beach Old Mans Old Mans. Go to Stewart Surfboards in San Clemente to get the teachers' contact details. Once you're ready to take it to the next level, go back to Stewart Surfboards to buy one of Bill Stewart's legendary boards. Stewart, a.k.a. "Kentucky's Greatest Surfer", has made over 40,000 boards in his career. 15 minutes from Old Mans is your most convenient accommodation option, Casa Tropicana, a charming ten-room boutique hotel located almost at the top of the San Clemente beach and pier. A 15-minute drive will take you to the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel if you are looking for a resort with all the usual luxury equipment.
Via GQ US.
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