I stick with my 10 ' Harbour Classic.  I have been  fortunate to surf  The Ranch on bigger days where the crowd is not too much of an issue. I have ridden waves 1 to 2 feet overhead numerous times and the board works wonderfully. I have also been  caught inside and taken a " whoopin " .
There is a channel to get out to the lineup but the shorebreak can be very tough to get through. I do not make a habit out of riding big days, but every once in awhile it sure gets the blood pumping.
Around Ventura I stay away from big days because the current can be very tough.
Ride what you feel comfortable with.