This is going to be a bias-answer only because I have only ridden Sector 9 boards.
But the best board to start riding would be a Sector 9 Original. Don't get into the Apex 37 or 34's because they are pintail and are a little trickier to start with and are meant for more professional riders. Not saying they are not a good choice because they are but I would say Sector 9 with basic setup. 78mm Wheels (Orangutang are best), Gullwing trucks and Red Swiss bearings. Also check for cutouts on the board which will allow you to turn sharper without wheel-bite. Hope this helps! (I'm a girl by the way!)
You can use a longboard on any type of wave but gently breaking waves are best.
I would say longboard because its bigger and more room. The penny is alot smaller so it could be harder staying on.
its called a longboard
VOLADOR 42inch Freeride Longboard. Playshion Drop Through Longboard Cruiser. Magneto Bamboo Longboards. JUCKER HAWAII Original Longboard. Slendor Longboard 42 inch Drop Through. Landyachtz Switch Longboard Complete and Colors.
there is no best longboard for anything there just different but a good crusing board must be quiet smooth and easy to push.
sector 7
setor 9
Chicken nuts
If you want to try longboard surfing you should go to First Point, Malibu, California. Makaha in Oahu, Hawaii is also a popular place. Cardiff in California is known as one of the best places for longboard surfing.
There is no best or worst Sector 9 longboard, or any longboard for that matter. This answer is all about preference and riding style. If you are into downhill the best board will be different from someone into carving. I am personally into downhill and I like the new Sector 9 Downhill Division boards, they are really nice.
purple orangutans are good
there not the best, but they are pretty reliable