What is the right size/type of surfboard for me?

Question

I am 5'6 and would be surfing in California around the bay area. Do you know what type and size of surfboard?

Answer 1

7-8 foot and very thick.

Answer 2

I'd say based on your size any board 6.0 + would work in general.  But it really depends on the conditions.  The shorter the board the harder it is to catch bigger waves and the closer and tougher the take off will be for you.  I spent three months surfing from Santa Cruz to Ocean Beach and used a 6'3" and I'm 6'2", and surfed waves between 5 - 12 feet without issue.  But I've also been surfing 29 years.  Your first board should be a longer board so you can catch the wave easier, perhaps in the 7' to 8' range.  It all depends on your abilities and the the actual conditions however.