Although I have never visited in April I would be surprised if there are surfable waves on StJ at that time of year. I do not recall if Maho offered surf classes. I think that they used to offer windsurfing lessons. Check out www.maho.org
They are closing the middle of May so their schedule may be out of sorts. I know that they do rent boards.

The kids aren't very good so small regular waves are what we're looking for. A tip on a local that might like to give a lesson will work too. I don't think we'll bring their boards so we will need to borrow or rent something from the teacher.

Depends on weather as to whether or not there will be any surf.
You may have to indulge your kids in other activities of which there are many to choose from but you can't plan on there being regular surf that would suit your kids as the type weather that brings surf also brings undertow and other unsafe conditions for them to be in the water.

http://magicseaweed.com/Cane-Garden-Bay-Surf-Report/480/

This is on the N. Shore of Tortola -- surf report -- it will give you an idea of surf conditions a few miles west on the N. Shore STJ beaches and not be very much different.

http://www.windguru.cz/int/index.php?sc=229370

This predictive site will also give you a fair idea of Atlantic side conditions.

Scienceguy wrote:
I'm going to be in St. John in early April. My kids are learning to surf and would like to take some lessons. Are there any surf schools on St. John that can give lessons? I did a quick google search and wasn't very successful. I know there must be something though.

Thanks

Last time on St John (March 2010) Cinnamon Bay had Surfboard rentals, and if I remember correctly, offered lessons as well. I remember because I was tempted to rent one. The surf looked about 2' to 3' breaking way outside (had to be a reef or sand bar). People were surfing. Looked like fun. I'd call Cinnamon Bay and ask.

See Link Below:
http://www.cinnamonbay.com/contactus.html

It's an offshore reef that breaks so depending on your kids and, again, the weather it may or may not be their cup of tea.

Reff and a long paddle out. Most VI breaks are reef. BUT.. good boogie boarding (sandy bottom) to the right of the point at Cin. Like some else said, surf is very condition dependent.

There is a famous local on STJ named "Surfer Gary", I do not have his number, but I am sure someone on STJ would. Hit up Gifft Hill School and ask around. Surfer Gary is great, and he charges 20 per class.

I saw a blog post about him in my google search. There was no contact info though. If anyone has an email I would appreciate it.