Yea if I were you, Id be putting in as many hours on the freshwater as possible to get yourself ready for salmon season this summer/fall. You'll be able to get casting down pretty well that way, and when your not able to fish do your research on salmon life cycles a feeding patterns. Also while on the freshwater, talk to as many people as possible and they will be more than happy to answer any questions you have and will probably be able to point you in the right direction for beach fishing areas close to where you live. This website also contains some valuable information, but in regards to fishing spots I think fishermen will be more likely to share that information with you in person. Also, I find its worth it to spend the little bit more money and do all your shopping at a local fishing store rather than a big box store like walmart or canadian tire. In the long run you will get to know these guys on a first name basis and they get to talk to more fishermen then any. They will be more than happy to give you the low down on where to focus your time and efforts. Other then those tips, just fish fish fish as much as possible and you'll get the hang of it!
Best of luck to you and your new hobby, looking forwards to seeing more post from you here.
Mike