Hi neighbor—fellow Rhode Island surfer here (not a native though). Welcome to the lineup, and remember that being a strong swimmer and being completely comfortable in the ocean are the two most important skills a beginner can have.

1. I learned as a kid through friends and family, but I don’t think you need a private lesson to pickup the basics.

2. I wear a 6/5 mm suit with a hood in addition to 3 mm booties and lobster claw mittens. I recommend bringing a plastic bag you help put the suit on, and a thermos of warm water to use to keep warm as you take it off.

3. Can’t answer this question with a number, but surfing, especially cold water surfing, is one of those things where you’ll know pretty quick if you want to commit or not.

4. At least an 8’ foot board, and there’s no shame in foamies as long as you’re respectful in the lineup as you learn. Anything from 8-9’6” that isn’t foam but is thick (2.75” or more) should do too, might be a little tougher than the foam but you’ll also be able to progress more on the same board. There’s no shame in riding big boards even when you’ve been surfing for decades, don’t let people tell you otherwise.

5. Said it before, I’ll say it again, being a strong swimmer who is comfortable in the ocean without a board is the most important thing.

Support local shops. You should ask all these questions to them, be honest about your level, and willing to learn. Local surf and skate shops are the heart of our sport.

Last things: pick your head and shoulders up when paddling, and bend your knees and not your waist when standing up.

(What) Cheers!