• Introduction
• 1. Biking
• 2. Climbing
• 3. Fly Fishing
• 4. Hiking
• 5. Horseback Riding
• 6. Kayaking
• 7. Rafting
• 8. Sailing
• 9. Scuba
• 10. Surfing

Surfing

SPLURGE: Oahu, Hawaii
Nancy Emerson is a former champion Women’s World Tour competitor, sometime Hollywood stuntwoman, and owner of the Nancy Emerson School of Surfing, probably the best known surf school on the island. She’s usually on the road, so her 5-day clinics are rare indeed. Top up the fantasy level with a stay at Waikiki’s legendary Halekulani resort (from $405/night, daily transfers included; halekulani.com). $1,800 to $2,900 for 5 days.

VALUE: Victoria, Australia
Former professional surfer Jodie Smith is passionate about the mind-body benefits of her sport, combining surf lessons with yoga classes and fantastic food (she’s also a qualified nutritionist) at her Surf and Soul retreats. The new 5-day learn-to-surf courses take place on Great Ocean Road, the best surf coast in Australia, from late-August. $1,150 for 5 days, all-inclusive (though only 2 dinners).

See United States Travel Guide