Learn to Surf
03.07.07
Surfing, as they say, is the new golf. So if you’re hoping to make your riding dreams reality, here are the best places to learn
Located in Brazil’s sunshine state of Bahia, 300km south of Salvador, Itacare is a fishing village turned laid-back surf paradise where the water is so warm you won’t even need a wetsuit.
The town itself nestles in the middle of a large protected area of tropical rainforest and is adjacent to dozens of near-deserted, white, sandy beaches which have strong waves all year round.
It’s a popular spot for Brazilian tourists and after a day of surfing you can enjoy the multitude of mellow bars, restaurants (including a sushi bar) and cool boutiques.
There are several surf schools in Itacare but EasyDrop is the best and already has an international reputation, so you’ll likely be sharing classes with Americans, Europeans and fellow Brit.
With several beaches to choose from, you are bussed each day to the one with the best conditions and lessons take up an entire morning (four hours), or afternoon, depending on the tide. There are always several instructors on hand and all place a strong emphasis on technique.
I was standing up in white water by the end of my first day and caught my first unbroken green wave on the fourth. All your surfing is filmed and analysed by the instructor in the evenings.
You stay in a local guesthouse where rooms include a balcony with a hammock.
Or you can find your own hotel, allowing you to get involved with as little or as much of the group action as you like.
Sort it out: Seven day surf package includes, all equipment, 6 days tuition, 7 nights lodging, shuttles
Price range Dec 16 – March 11 £652, March 18 to mid-Dec £460 – £495
Get there: To get to EasyDrop, you will need to take a flight to Salvador and then a domestic flight to Ilheus.
Air France and Virgin Atlantic fly from Heathrow to Salvador from £600.
GOL Airlines flies from Salvador to Ilheus, starting at £70 return. www.voegol.com.br. Tam airlines flies from Salvador to Ilheus, starting from £75 return. www.tam.com.br. The camp arranges airport transfers from Ilheus to Itacare, which takes 1 and a half hours.
