Surfing Waves

I have just started surfing and am aware of the imprpotant surf etiquette and how locals have their own beaches and that some beginners are seen as more of a hassle. Are there any beaches in LA that are quite beginner safe or are there any beaches in LA which beginners should definitely stay away from?

as a general rule, any beach break (sandy bottom) that is easily accessible is fine. just observe etiquette and all will be good.

if you're using a longboard, you may want avoid crowded lineups (ie Malibu) until you can exit the wave or at least fall and control your board. it can be a little disconcerting to look up, while paddling back to the lineup, and see a freshly bailed off of board barrelling at you like a run away freight train...even with a leash attached, an uncontrolled board can still reach out and touch someone.

that said, there are a ton of places in the county to check out...just give indicators and lunada bay (palos verdes pt.) a pass for now...it can get local around there.

Bay street dude, all beginners mostly,its to the left of the santa monica pier