My husband has mentioned several times that he'd like to learn how to sail a boat. Just for the experience -- we'll never own a sailboat.

So I was thinking that I'd like to surprise him with a lesson (or lessons, if necessary) as part of a vacation. No firm destination in mind yet, although San Diego and Key West are two possibilites we've talked about. If anyone has a recommendation elsewhere in the U.S., though, I'd still like to hear it.

Thanks for any advice!

Here are the websites of two well-known sailing schools with several locations each. I learned to sail as a boy in a sailing club, but I did take an advanced course at the Colgate school (over 20 years ago, though) and thought it was quite good.

http://www.offshoresailing.com/

http://www.annapolissailing.com/index.php

My husband took sailing lessons from Chesapeake Sailing School in Annapolis and when our kids got old enough, they took lessons there too. They enjoy renting boats from them a couple times each summer for a day of sailing (I easily get seasick, so I stay on land) and always comment on how friendly the staff is.
http://www.sailingclasses.com/homestart.html

My husband and I both took lessons with Annapolis Sailing in Florida, however, we really learned how to sail from a friend who had a sailboat, and then when we purchased our sailboat. As in anything in life, experience is the best teacher, but I think either of the schools listed above would be fine and I would suggest that you both take the lessons. You might find yourselves with a new hobby!

You could check out the Belle Haven Marina near Washington, DC, that's the one my ski club uses
http://www.saildc.com/

That way you could combine it with a trip to Washington where there is lots to do. Also, it's right near national airport, so very convenient for travel.

Having sailed some since college, I personally think it would be preferable to learn to sail on something other than the ocean, some smaller lake or reservoir or something more protected.

Thank you so much for the replies....that's exactly the kind of information I was looking for!