Hi Rex,
there is a really cool skate/scooter/bmx park approx 2km from Anse vata beach.
It's quite large and nicely set up. My son goes over there and it's very safe.
All the rental outlets have really good beginner's gear : Aloha and Naish pro center also give lessons ($); Sp8ce (rrd) does the lessons for free and the guy is irish so language is not an issue (except for the accent
)
You should definitely take your kids snorkelling on duck island, it's just unreal !!
Your 15 yo will probably also enjoy the local charm of the chicks on the beach.....
Plenty of activities to choose from (light house day trip/cultural center/beautiful new aquarium/helicopter ride over the reef, etc)
Dining is great and wine is cheap !
As for aussie feedback you can ask Wineman/Haircut/Drift/Col555 about their opinion. They've all made different journeys here.
Col is the Lucky one he's been sailing a lot and seeing a few interesting things (duck island buoys...
)
Laurent (RRD) hires Loft sails but only wave and freeride sails (up to 5.9).
No one hires slalom gear locally, too costly.
Hope this helps.
I won't be there from 1st to 18 january(I'll be in Oz) so don't hesitate to let me know when you're coming so I can tell the rental guys to give you the "mate rate"
