Ft. Walton Beach

[keenand]

I am moving to the Pensacola area for a 3 - 4 month detail that may take me through the beginning of next year. I'm new to the sport and still taking my licks here in the San Francisco Bay Area where the wind is pretty consistent during the season May - Mid-September. I was wondering how long the season is in the Panhandle and if there are launch sites close to Pensacola - I guess more importantly launch sites for beginners with nice long beaches to go downwind. Any help will be appreciated.

Thanks.