Reasonable and Responsible Offshore Practice

[_LifeInTheWild_]

I am moving back to the east coast of Florida in the near future. I spent last year sailing on Lake Superior on a 30ft vessel. There isn't a ton of sailing other than on the outside on the east coast, as far as I am aware. That is fine by me because I bought a sailboat to sail on the ocean. Coastal sailing on nice flat days can be nice. I am interested in getting some experience in the not so nice stuff. I am not talking about being Erik Aanderaa, but getting some work in heavier weather. Is this something that is typically done? Is it responsible and reasonable to head out in conditions that are not ideal if you have worked up to them? How does everyone else do this?

In my opinion, when stuff gets a little hairy on a crossing it is beneficial to be familiar and know how you will react. Thoughts?