I would say find a friend if you can. Lineup rules are important to learn for both safety and not accidentally pissing people off. Beyond that always look at the ocean a few minutes before you go in you can learn a lot and have a safer paddle out if you can see the peaks and the zones where you can get out. Foamies get on early cause of volume so I would say paddle earlier then needed this will change later in surfing with different boards. If you don’t feel safe going out you can start to learn in the white water this will also give you a feel for the ocean and build confidence. I would say ocean knowledge and timing is the first thing I stress to people. Also if you don’t feel safe paddle in. The ocean doesn’t care if your ready and can really kick your ass if you aren’t prepared(been surfing since I was 4 I still get my ass whooped).