really need a collage of info. tidbits... all appreciated

[MochaSips]

Hey everyone. I'm really going to try not to ask questions that haven't already been asked yet. I went looking through the forum, but i still definitey have some questions if anyonen can help. I've wanted to learn how to surf for the longest time, and hopefully very soon I'll get the chance. I just need some places to start from. I live in North Carolina, and of course i'm really not sure where to go, for example, etc etc.

anyways, here i go.

* first of all, IS it really okay to try to learn by yourself? it it harder without ? and should you at all ? ( i'm not really sure i have other friends who want to learn like i do) because i've read that you should probably go out with a friend that is learning, too.

* this may seem dumb ... but , do you guys keep your eyes opened underwater? ( i guess i havent been to the beach, only to the pool, and know chlorine stings, but does salt hurt?) j/w.

* been doing a little research on the boards .... i understand that probably a longboard is best to start out on ? i'm 5'4 and 125 pounds female. also, what is the price range, for say, a used board? i am clueless here ! i was thinkin about checkin out the surf shops when i head to the beach this weekend, but am still wary about what i may need to look for.


Thanks in advance for ANy input to help me out. i nEEd it ! haha.

~ nay *

[XAlley]

Personally, I'm having a tough time finding a good used starter board. Most of the used boards that I've found in the shops are shortboards. But I'm in Florida - perhaps you'll have better luck where you are.

[surferdude_scarborough]

dont keep your eyes open when you hit the water. i ended up doing this on a day where i took a beating and my eyes went red for like a week! i have no problem keeping my eyes open once i am underwater. i think it varies from person to person but i cant see salt water being very good for the eyes!

[namino tsume]

I can keep my eyes open underwater, i dont cuz i have contacts and my salt water is dirty as hell.
you dont have to learn iwth a friend. Just learn wtih people around you. Afriend will only help for encouragement. I didnt have any friends when i was learning, its no harder i think.
As to boards, a long board is easiest to learn on, but rent a board from the local shop before you buy. Save the board question until you can stand consistently.