Taylor 100 or 200 series. Same neck / playability as the expensive ones but they use laminated back/sides.
under $300 out the door
Really good guitars at a great price. American made, too.
Agreed. I have been playing since I was about 14. You need something with good play-ability and a comfortable neck size and you won't be able to put it down.
Warning...guitars can quickly become addictive like fine rifles.
Good luck and take some lessons or there is tons of free stuff to start you out online. Then move on to something like this.
Vanderbilly twofish