Most of the criticism you hear isn't very relevant for a beginner who's learning, and most people having those discussions have forgotten what it is like to be a beginner a long time ago.
If you like the "accessibility" of PHP, if you like programming in it, if you like the learning resources you have and you like the forums you've found, then go for it.
In due time you'll discover what the criticism about PHP was all about, form your own opinion and might check out other options (and Java won't be scary any more - just different syntax and a few concepts that you'll appreciate better when you have some experience).
If you like the "accessibility" of PHP, if you like programming in it, if you like the learning resources you have and you like the forums you've found, then go for it.
In due time you'll discover what the criticism about PHP was all about, form your own opinion and might check out other options (and Java won't be scary any more - just different syntax and a few concepts that you'll appreciate better when you have some experience).