A group of friends are going to South Padre next month. My friend wants to learn to surf. She is 200 lbs and 5ft 3. Althought she does not look that heavy. What boards are decent, but inexpensive. Any tips for her? And is Padre an ok place to learn????

The larger / Longer the board the better.
Easier to balance for beginners.
Make sure it is well waxed too.
Why not rent a board on the beach?
There are usually day and week rentals if you're near the ocean.
Also, inquire about lessons they can recomend the correct size board to start with.
Enjoy!

Tell her not to buy a board either before she goes or while there. Way too expensive to travel with, plus she has no idea if she will even like surfing. Find a surf school or ask any surfers she sees about surf lessons. It is not that big a place and l would bet all the locals know who gives lessons. The instructor will have a board that fits your friend.