Surfing Waves

I am jetting off to America and then on to Mexico in a couple of weeks time for a bit of a surfing holiday. It will be my first surfing holiday, so i was just wanting a bit of advice really. Also, i have my own board and was wondering whether you guys recommend i take it with me or just hire when im out there, i personally think i should take my own board but everyone ive spoken to has suggested otherwise, but then theyve never been on a surfing holiday, so a bit of advice from those who have actually been there and done it before would be great! whats the situation with taxis/buses etc, will they be willing to take me and board or will it cause a bit of a fuss??
thanks very much
naomi