anyone ever stay or hear of inchape (i believe its on the south coast of barbados). we'd like to try our hand at surfing, while relaxing on the beach... thanks for your advice

Location is wild and rugged, accommodations ok. You can find some other surfing locations on the island here:

http://www.destinationcaribbean.net/...mp;parentid=19

Surfing is available year round on some part of the island.

Not for beginners. I'd suggest Rincon or even Tortola, but the surf in Barbados is really strong on the east coast, and while it's beautiful there, I just don't think it's safe for a first-timer.

Have you given serious though to Maui? Lots of beaches there have light to moderate surf, and there are many people to give you lessons.

thanks, yeah maui is a really far (and expensive flight) from new york.
now i'm rethinking everything! where else do you suggest, we like ocean sports and to stay in accommodations that are more like cottages/bungalows than part of the large hotel structure. thanks

Rincon, PR, IS a good suggestion.

Inchcape is great but the other posts are correct - not for beginners. I don't know if you mean wind surfing or just surfing. The south coast has lots of wind for wind/kite boarding but not alot of wave action for surfing. Big currents as well. If you are just wanting to try surfing, Tamarindo in Costa Rica has an awesome beach, great options for accommodation and lots of surfers.

been to jaco and tamarindo and also rincon... any other islands?

Some of the Bahamas Out Islands have surfing, as well as cottage/bungalow type accomodations. Eleuthera has a beach known as Surfer's Beach; and Elbow Cay in the Abacos has a break known as the Garbanzo Break, which is located between the Abaco Inn and Seaspray Resort (both of which would probably meet your needs). Just don't go December - March, as you might find the water too cold for swimming.