The most obvious element of ocean safety is weather because of its unpredictability. The best surfing weather is sunny with a few clouds. 
Something to look out for is sudden changes in the patterns of currents and waves caused by weather. Increases in wind can cause wave size to increase in a hurry, so go to shelter quickly if a storm appears.
Wave size is the most important part of ocean safety. Big waves are dangerous for beginners who are unfamiliar the conditions. 
Hollow waves should be avoided by beginners because they are more dangerous than crumbling waves. These are formed when the bottom goes from deep to shallow in a hurry. Crumbling waves have a more gradual slope and are ideal for beginners.
One of experienced surfers biggest concerns is the rip current. Depending on the situation, they can sometimes be friendly, but other times very dangerous.
Probably the biggest hazard of ocean safety for beginners is other surfers. 
Crowded oceans are very dangerous simply because of all the boards flying around. Surfers must respect surfing etiquette, or it can become dangerous for everyone involved. Make sure you learn the rules before going surfing and obey them.
Often overlooked, a surfers ability to swim is probably the most important aspect of ocean safety.
The most dangerous thing you can do is jump into an ocean that you are not capable of swimming in. Surfers should never consider their board as a flotation device because you can be easily separated from it, even with a leash.
Probably the most unpredictable but still very important element of ocean safety is the presence of ocean animals.
Ocean creatures can include stingrays, jellyfish, sea urchins, and sometimes even the scariest creature of them all, sharks.
