recs for cycling routes in So Cal?

[Bluetree]

^^^ I was recommending those to the "experienced" BF... the training rides are not for beginners. ;-)

The PV Loop is fairly easy to do if you keep a reasonable pace. Clockwise is a bit easier than counter-clockwise. If you're wary about the switchbacks, the out-and-back route along PV South Drive is quite nice. Just remember to pay attention to road rules, always ride in a straight line and watch out for other riders (no stopping in the middle of the path, no u-turns, no weaving, etc). I noticed when I ride with people from out-of-state, they are sometimes not used to the volume of cycling traffic, especially on the weekends.

P.S.
One more thing... avoid riding Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) between Santa Monica and the L.A. Harbor if you can, which is most of its length thru L.A. County. It's been labelled as a "bike route" on some sites/books but with a few exceptions, there are safer, better alternatives.