First trip to the ocean

Not to thread jack,

Does any one know of any classes in which the kayak would be provided?

I think almost all classes include the kayak & some gear. The classes at Kayak Connection in SC always included the kayak, paddle, skirt (if SIKs), and PFD. SOT classes included wetsuits too.

I taught a few classes where the folks brought their own boats & stuff, which was always allowed too as long as the gear passed instructor inspection.

First trip to the ocean? I would spend a little time on Tomalas Bay first.  But don't go alone. You can rent and take a class in Marshal or if you are serious about kayaking in the ocean and bays you can join Bay Area Sea Kayakers. Under no circumstances should go go out in the ocean alone without experience and even then it's not all that wise.

Park and launch from the Santa Cruz harbor. A half hour paddle straight out to the mile buoy has been producing rockfish and lings.

what about muir beach or baker beach?

these spots have the potential to be pretty gnarly surf launches. Probably not spots I would recommend to a beginner.
Dumping shorebreak is doable, but not something to learn on.

BASK has some wicked pro paddlers in the group, and they do trips all the time. It is an excellent resource.

Save Muir for when you've built up skills and confidence.

It's just not worth lost/broken gear or worse. It can be nice and easy, or it can be rough and serious. The tricky part about the ocean is that conditions can change VERY fast. At Muir, this usually means a STIFF wind from the northwest. It can get serious very quickly.

what about muir beach or baker beach?

I would not go to Muir Beach or Baker Beach now.  Wait till you feel comfortable, can self rescue, and after a few times in the ocean.  Then, go with someone that has been there before.  You will enjoy yourself more. 

How about joining us at pay it forward on July 13Th in HMB ?

Get there at sunrise introduce yourself and don't forget to bring some drinks and food to share with the group at the potluck
bring cash for the raffle tickets.

Mooch once told me, about being in the ocean, Learn to paddle first, get comfortable with your kayak, then learn to fish with it.