The challenge I have found with going somewhere that has lifeguards is that the usually aren't there early or late enough for me. I also either swim and my husband kayaks or there are a number of places here that many triathletes swim. You may be able to find a team or a group that swims regularly. Key is don't want to be out there alone.

I always where a wetsuit when I swim OW regardless of the temp. I'm fairly new to the OWS and gives me an extra layer of security. I ordered online with no issues using the size charts. Xterra using has pretty good prices and is almost always running a sale. I bought a mid-range sleeveless for $99.