Any kayak lovers out there? Requesting beginners help...

I've decided I want to get into kayaking. For now, I decided to go the cheaper route to make sure it's something I want to commit to and am probably going to get the Emotion Spitfire 8. A major reason I'm going with the 8 footer is because of space. I live in an apartment and drive a 2012 Elantra so space is definitely limited.

I have a few questions. I've been reading up on recreational kayaks and their uses. I'm wanting to use my kayak for rivers and lakes and such but is it not really possible to use it in the surf as well? And I know physically I could take it anywhere I want but I'm wondering if it will work well. I've only just learned that there are surf-specific kayaks. Do you think the Spitfire 8 would suffice for a beginners "hybrid" kayak?

I've also been reading up on paddles and the different materials and how they can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, etc. What types of styles/brands do you guys recommend?

Please feel free to throw in any other kayak related info to inform me and help me out, thanks!

wonderspark said:

For that much money, you could buy a used "real" kayak that is good for surf! Look for a used Prijon, like this one:
http://denver.craigslist.org/spo/3555339910.html


Then again, I see you're in Florida... so are you going to travel to Georgia for paddling, or surf on beach waves?

I wish I would have kept my Kendo.

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Yes. I live on Pensacola Beach so I definitely plan to surf with what I get. I'm trying to stay away from an ocean yak, though because I want something I can take on the river as well.