Any beginners around Dana Point/Capo Beach?

I'm thinking of trying out surfing for the first time this summer. Either with a cheap-o costco foamie, or an epoxy funboard. Any of you peeps beginners around the area? Possibly looking to hit up Capo during the weekdays mostly and maybe the weekends. Is that a good spot to learn at?

Second question, is it crazy to buy a board, watch a few vids/hear some tips from others, and then go straight to learning how to surf without a lesson?

Second question, is it crazy to buy a board, watch a few vids/hear some tips from others, and then go straight to learning how to surf without a lesson?

LOL that’s a lot more than I did. I went out and got a used 5-10 beater thruster, an Oniell spring suit that was way too big but I didn’t care cos it was black, and paddled out at Topanga which is probably the least beginner friendly and highly localized spot. And I’m still alive lol.

If possible, I would recommend a lesson but maybe worth it to just paddle out a few times to get a feel for what to expect. A lesson is always a good idea though to at least get you on the right track and keep you from developing bad habits.

Cheap-o Costco foamie, is the way to go. They're not that hard to ride, no ding's to repair, great to keep for friends to ride, best of all CHEAP.

Like Rob, I've never had a lesson and didn't have the internet for help. If you could swing at least one lesson you would probably benefit greatly, but it certainly can be done without.

I would avoid Doheny and Poche, only because of the pollution. A lot of people learn at San-o and San Clemente pier area

Cool, thanks for the replies everyone. What kind of pollution is it? Like bacteria levels, or things like trash, or oil from the offshore rigs, etc? Is that from the marina or some place with runoff?

Is there anything else I should know before hitting up spots like near the pier? I heard that you should respect the lineup, etc, but will guys pitch a fit if they see a noob with el foamie? The surfing etiquette thread was helpful.

Anyone other spots in addition to San-O and the pier? Thank you!

Runoff, Doheny from San Jaun Creek and Poche from another creek. Bacteria, Industrial and agricultural waste.

San-O and the pier have noob's quite often. When I say the Pier I mean at least 200 yards + north (I would avoid the pack next to the pier)

I'm not much of a teacher, but I'd be happy to show you around different spots and give you what ever pointers I can.

Runoff, Doheny from San Jaun Creek and Poche from another creek. Bacteria, Industrial and agricultural waste.

San-O and the pier have noob's quite often. When I say the Pier I mean at least 200 yards + north (I would avoid the pack next to the pier)

I'm not much of a teacher, but I'd be happy to show you around different spots and give you what ever pointers I can.

Nice, thanks sc.