Hi,

So I just moved to Californiam (from Canada) for 4 months. I tried surfing once in San Diego, but the waves were too big and all of my buddies (who were supposed to show me) ditched me because the waves were good during that week. 

I'm in the Santa Monica region and I need to find a few things:

1. A good surf shop with used boards.

2. A good place to take a few lessons (unless there's no point in taking lessons). I'm a quick learner, but some people tell me I should take lessons, others say there's no need to.

3. What kind of board should I get? I know I'll learn fast, and since I live on the east coast I'll probably be surfing in New England most of the time. So I'd like something that can last a few years, but still easy to learn on.

Thanks for the help!