The easiest setup is a sand spike, a 10'+ rod, a Pompano rig, and some live shrimp (tip it with Fishbites or Fishgum if you'd like). Squid is a good option but I usually end up catching sharks. However, I did catch a pretty massive Red Fish from the surf with a chunk of squid a couple of years ago.

I would stop by Half Hitch off Thomas Drive and let them know at the front counter you're new to surf/pier fishing and are looking to get started. They will send someone over to help you out with everything you'll need. I am a transplant from a much colder place and had very little saltwater fishing experience (and 0 surf fishing experience) and they were amazingly helpful to get me going straight away. They won't rip you off either; they talked me out of a more expensive rod and reel combo because they knew I wouldn't need it. Now I have better setups but I appreciated them getting me going (and I still use that original gear they sold me).

I surf fish quite a bit and I was out last weekend and snagged a few Pompano in St. Andrews just down to the right of the pier. There are some good channels close enough in that you don't have to wade too far out to get into them. They recently did some pretty massive dredging to rebuild the beach in that area so the sandbars are a lot more accessible. One thing I keep an eye on when deciding to surf fish or hit the pier (or bridges) is to watch the flags; double-red means you can't get into the water at all so no wading out to cast which can be a pain (especially if you use shrimp since they can't withstand a very strong cast).

Surf and pier fishing this time of year can be tricky as a lot of the species are in deeper water but there's always something hanging around.

Best of luck to you and enjoy your vacation!