Surfboard for a beginner in Santa Barbara/ Goleta?

Question

As a freshman at UCSB, I've noticed a lot of surfers here and I want to get in on the fun, but first off, I need a board. I plan on getting a nice cheap used board to learn on. I'm 5'3ish and 120 lbs. I have taken a ton of surfing classes and for the most part can paddle my own waves (if tiny). What size board should I get if I want to move onto more challenging waves? What should I look for when purchasing a board? Also, it would be nice if it was small enough to carry under my arm...

I understand that everyone has to start somewhere, but is localism really a problem? I know some basic surf ettiquette (don't go for a wave someone is already going for), and I know I'll probably have "newbie" written on my forehead, but any tips for somehow faking that I know what I'm doing? It will be the first time going out on my own...but maybe I can get away with stuff being a girl :)

Answer 1

The best thing to do is to take a class in Surfing.  I'd be surprised if UCSB didn't offer such a thing through it's student services/student union.  And certainly the City of Santa Barbara must offer those through their Parks & Recreation Department.  That way you can try out the local spots under the auspices of the class and find out alot about the local surf scene.

I would get the largest board you can handle.  One that you can carry, certainly, but the longer boards will be more stable for a beginner, plus will have better performance in the smaller surf and marginal wave conditions you're likely to do a lot of surfing in at first.  You might consider one of those 'soft top' padded boards if you can find one in good shape (used).  

I used to surf up far north in California (Eureka/Arcata area).  Localism wasn't a problem there.  Too few surfers, too many good waves.  Cold though.

Here in Southern California I've encountered some problems.  But if you are polite and learn the local 'rules' (wave ettiquette) it will help.  Being a woman doesn't hurt, either.  

You might also check and see if there are local surf clubs.  And join the Surfrider Foundation.  Go to their meetings, you'll connect with the best sort of local surfers there who can show you the ropes!  

Great sport!  Good luck!

Answer 2

lol so ur a gromit/grom i.e begginer haha im from australia and love surfn thats what we call beginers overhere...u should get a board thats a good foot/foot and a harf bigger than u...u need sum lingo i.e ther waves r frofn/the waves r good...its closin out/dumpers...its h**l rippy/strong rips.. u ride a mal or a jita bugt/a mal is a long board and a jita bugt is a short board just sumov what we use overhere