Well, I'm no expert but Ive been trying to find a decent guitar these days as well. I am certainly in the beginner range of playing but have been hacking away for long enough to warrant a little spoiling
About a year ago, my gf bought a nice Martin D-15 that has really fit my own needs for playability and overall feel...it also sounds amazing and has a beautiful look. Compared to my old Yamaha (about 30 years old) that Ive had kicking around the sound difference is completely overwhelming. Comparing the feel of the neck, and sound, I just couldn't stand and have been playing hers daily. I even had the Yamaha set up properly, and the action lowered. It has sentimental value to me and will make a good travel guitar but I just don't enjoy playing and learning on it.
Of course Im comparing apples to oranges but Im just saying that personal preference goes a long way, even as a beginner. Ive tried a number of different brands/models and find that a Martin feels best in my hands and has the sound I prefer.
Something to consider is that you can offen rent a guitar at the bigger stores. I recently brought home a Martin DCXIRE (the cutaway, w/ electronics, version of the guitar Pablo mentioned) to try out and am loving it.
Take your time picking one out. It's fun, you get to play a lot of different models, and really learn a thing or two in the process, which, as a beginner is what you're after anyhow.