Are your kids are begging for a vacation where they can shred some waves or do you have an entire family of willing surfers? We have rounded up the best resorts where kids (and parents) can learn to surf and where the non-surfers among you can relax and enjoy some R&R.
Start surfing with one hour taster sessions
Hotel del Coronado, California
Hotel Del, as it is affectionately known, is a family-friendly beachfront resort located on the beautiful Coronado Island, 15 minutes from downtown San Diego.
If your little adventurers want to learn to catch a wave and you want an unforgettable vacation, this is it! As well as surf lessons for tots as young as four, there are also daily surf camps for older kids or teens. And there’s no upper age-limit, so mom and dad can join in too.
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The younger kids start, the faster they learn
Kids learn to surf year-round at The Boca Raton in Florida
Surf’s up for the whole family at The Boca Raton in Florida. The resort sits between West Palm Beach and Miami and lessons are available year round on its private beach. As well as getting the hang of the perfect pop-up kids will also learn about ocean conditions and sea safety.
If you aren’t up for the beach, catch the FlowRider at Harborside Pool Club. Simulating a continuous wave, this attraction lets kids boogie board or surf and it’s great for building confidence, or learning new tricks. Naturally, certified lifeguards are on hand to offer instruction and keep everyone safe. In more good news, the FlowRider includes a padded washout zone, so even wipeouts are fun.
Group lessons are a good idea for first timers
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, California
If you dream of a quintessential beach getaway for the family with surfing for your wannabe waver riders, head to Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort. It’s located at the popular surfing spot, Dana Point in Southern California and great value surf lessons are available for adults and kids.
There’s also an awesome kids clubs for five to 12 year olds, as well as a spa and plenty of other activities including golf and tennis. So if you don’t fancy hitting the waves, you won’t be bored.
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All surfing starts with a perfect pop-up
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island is a primo spot for surf newbies and Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort offers both private and group lessons for kids. Private lessons start from age of 5 to 6, and older wannabe surfers can take group lessons from age 7.
Apart from surfing, the resort has a long list of other activities golf, tennis and a wide range of watersports. So even non-surfers in the family won’t have time to get bored.
Gentle encouragement creates confident young surfers
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, California
Mediterranean-style villa resort, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is the perfect setting to begin your SoCal surfing adventure.
The philosophy here is surfing for everyone, so expect expert lessons with a friendly, encouraging vibe. The Surf Experience includes transport to and from the beach, as well as a 2-hour lesson and all equipment, right down to towels. A great start for kids and adult beginners, lessons start from age 9 and there’s also private coaching for more experienced surfers.
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Even experienced kids learn to surf smarter with expert coaching
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Hawaii
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa in Hawaii is said to be the birthplace of surf. So there’s nowhere better to take your junior wave riders on an unforgettable vacation.
Beach babies can catch their first waves at Ka’anapali Surf Club. Alternatively, for a tamer start, they can try stand up paddle boarding. However, if surfing is not your cup of tea, you’ll also find golf, scuba-diving, luaus and endless other family adventures at this all-round fantastic resort.
Book your stay at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa
Get your little dudes ready for a summer of surf
Typhoon Lagoon at Walt Disney World® in Orlando
For a tidal wave of fun and a private surfing lesson, head to Walt Disney World® in Florida.
The legendary theme park might not be on the coast, but it is home to the Typhoon Lagoon waterpark. Not only is this a world beating waterpark, it also features North America’s largest wave pool. Kids can have a lesson before the park opens, riding waves up to six feet high. Plus once surf school is done, you have the rest of the Disney magic to enjoy.
Peaks ‘n’ Swells all-inclusive family surf camp, Costa Rica
If you’re looking for a family surfing adventure of epic proportions, the ever-popular Peaks ‘n’ Swells Family Surf Camp on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica is just the ticket.
There is a full range of surf breaks in the area making it ideal for all levels including the little grommets in your family. These week long camps, available in the spring and fall, will have you catching waves like a pro in no time. If mom and dad want to relax and have some time off, they’ll take your kids on an adventure or two of their own.
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