This looks like an ideal sub-SLR camera for anyone looking to take surf pics from the beach. 18x optical stabilised zoom. leica lens and a shitload of features for €337. Might consider one later in the year.

http://www.komplett.ie/k/ki.aspx?sku=341016

i've it's grandad - an FZ20. if it's anything like mine - go for it you really won't be dissapointed.

it's best feature is the lense, mine is 12x optical which is the equivalent of 430mm in 'film' terms. full f2.8 operation at that, so lots of light too. good optical stabilisation (antishake), you can take handheld full zoom shots. pin sharp at full zoom, 5mp, 4fps burst. good enough for a half page shot in a magazine

Camera's a good'un I reckon

The Panasonic F-Z5 (older version) I have is excellent, no complaints

Their cameras just work...and are simple to use

....oh yeah....and cheap

Here is a link to a handy package deal

I bought one of these myself about two weeks ago Panasonic L1

That camera B.a. posted looks seriously tempting, but
I can't get surfer 207's link to work though!!