Surfing Waves

Hey all,

I am going over to LA for the last week in Jan and first week in Feb. I have a work thing on the first week but the second week is all mine to do with what I want but I am on a bit of a budget. I would like to try and get in a bit of surfing when I am there but am completely ignorant of places to go and rental of gear and all that so would appreciate some advice. I would say I am an intermediate surfer but do not get out enough and will be on my own so I dont want to go anywhere too heavy.

What are the best beginner/intermediate spots in the LA area for Feb?

Could anyone recommend a good place to stay that is pretty cheap and close to these areas?

Do I need to rent a car to get to these places?

How reasonable is it to rent equipment there? I can bring my own board (7ft fish) and 5/4 winter suit but I will have to pay extra for the flights and carry it around so if it is reasonable to rent there I might do this.

What is the water temperature that time of year? Is a full winter suit necessary?

Sorry for all the questions. Any advice is very much appreciated

4/3 full suit is recommended....You will need a car to surf in LA.....no cheap place to stay, except camping. Winter in LA is full of beginner surf(county Line, Staircase, Secos, even Malibu.. all better on south swell. ...there are very few expert waves. Ventura, 20 minutes up the coast from North La, has way better winter surf, cheaper places to stay, less crowds...you should still rent a car.
Send me a PM, I could show you some Ventura/LA spots when you come out.