It is generally accepted that Polynesians from Tahiti and Hawaii were the first to enjoy the sensation of surfing (gliding across the face of an unbroken sea wave, standing proud on wooden surfboards crafted from the timber of sacred trees).
Fifteenth century ‘Meles’ (Hawaiian chants sung by elders and passed down generation to generation) record the surfing activities of the great Royal families and other dignitaries of even earlier times.
As most schoolchildren will be aware, Captain James Cook was the first ‘civilised’ western observer of this pastime. He came in the early 1770s, closely followed by western missionaries, resulting in a suppression of the sport. It is commonly accepted that surfing at the time was outlawed as being an ‘unchristian’ activity. (more…)
Indonesia has some of the best surf spots in the world. Nias and Bali are probably the best known destinations, but there are many more islands with fantastic waves. "The best quality waves on the entire planet" are, according to Indo Surf & Lingo, in the Sumatran Mentawai Islands.
In Brazil climatic conditions can change at any time, big swells can come any time of the year. Due to its diverse sea floor and other geographical conditions, Itacare is considered one of the best places to surf in Brazil. You can find nice and easy beach breaks, or big waves on shallow coral reefs. There are over ten good surfing spots, which is why it’s called the Brazilian Hawaii.
The Island of Phuket sits like a jewel in the Andaman Sea in the south of Thailand. The island’s terrain is incredibly varied, with idyllic little secluded coves, long white powdery beaches, dramatic limestone formations, mangrove forest reserves, and jungles with waterfalls and tropical vegetation of all kind. This makes Phuket a wonderful place for any action adventure.