FS23,
Welcome to the forums
My first kayak had small hatches on it, so I didn't have the option to stow my rods below deck like I do now. What I used to do was remove the reels and put them below or in a dry bag. Then I would take a small piece of cord and tie the rods down to some deck loops I installed on the deck of the kayak. They're still exposed, but they are laying down instead of standing up at a 90 degree angle. Very good idea with the extra sunglasses. I always carry an extra pair also, but fishing partners have seemed to wear them more when they forget or lose theirs.
The guys are right on about playing in waves with your kayak or whatever watercraft one launches in the surf. It never hurts to have some practice. I took a kayak surf zones class from southwind kayaks down in Irvine,CA. I think they still offer them also if you're interested. It was "Good Stuff" as they say. TC&TL,
Perry