Hi FitFreak!
I live in your area and if you want help on local LBS's feel free to PM me. It is great that you are getting into cycling, it is tons of fun!
Once you get a bike and get comfortable on it, a great ride to start with is the Sheena Ride out of Downtown Bicycles on Wed. mornings(leaves the shop at 6am)(if you are in the Ft.Lauderdale area, if you are in Miami or Boca can help you find other rides). It is a no-drop ride meant for those who are just starting out, and a lot of other more experienced riders join in so it is a great group and great place to learn! Everyone usually goes to Starbucks afterwards for coffee and chit chat:-)

So glad to see another SF women on TE finally!

Welcome