There is no better way to experience Southern California than from the driver’s seat of a classic Chevelle or El Camino with the windows down and the salt air filling the cabin. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) offers some of the most iconic vistas in the world, but navigating this historic route in a vintage A-body requires a bit more planning than a trip in a modern commuter car. This guide highlights our club’s favorite coastal segments and stops for maximum cruising enjoyment.

The Malibu Run: Santa Monica to Leo Carrillo

This segment is the quintessential SoCal cruise, offering long stretches of open road and stunning cliffside views that perfectly complement a gleaming paint job.

• Start Early: Beat the heavy traffic by hitting the road before 8:00 AM to ensure you have plenty of room to let your Big Block breathe.
• The Neptune’s Net Stop: This legendary roadside eatery is a favorite for car clubs; the parking lot is often a mini-car show in itself.
• Photo Ops: Pull over at Point Dume for a high-contrast backdrop that makes chrome bumpers pop against the deep blue of the Pacific.
• Temperature Watch: Keep a close eye on your gauges during the stop-and-go sections near the Santa Monica Pier, especially on warmer days.

The South Bay Loop: Palos Verdes Drive

For those who prefer winding curves and elevation changes over straight-line coastal cruising, the "PV Loop" is a must-drive.

• Handling Check: Ensure your suspension and steering linkage are tight before tackling the switchbacks of Palos Verdes Drive South.
• Wayfarers Chapel: A beautiful architectural landmark that offers a quiet spot for a club regroup and cooling down the brakes.
• Coastal Breezes: The lower temperatures on the peninsula make this an ideal route for cars that tend to run a bit hot in the Inland Empire heat.

Orange County Coastal: Huntington to Laguna Beach

This route takes you through the heart of California’s surf and car culture, passing through towns that helped define the muscle car era.

• Huntington Beach: Cruise past the pier and pay homage to the home of the "Donut Derelicts".
• Crystal Cove: A perfect stretch for a steady 45 MPH cruise where you can really hear the exhaust note echoing off the coastal bluffs.
• Laguna Village: Be prepared for plenty of "thumbs up" and waves; this area remains one of the most appreciative communities for classic American iron.

Essential Prep for the Cruise

Before heading out on any long-distance club run, a quick pre-flight check of your Chevelle or El Camino is mandatory to avoid the "breakdown of shame."

• Check All Fluids: Verify oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels are topped off.
• Tire Pressure: Set your pressures for highway cruising to ensure a smooth ride and even wear.
• Communication: If cruising with the club, ensure your handheld radio is charged and set to the designated club frequency.
• Emergency Kit: Always carry a basic tool kit, a fire extinguisher, and a gallon of water—just in case.

Conclusion

Cruising the PCH isn't just about the destination; it’s about the connection between the machine, the road, and the landscape. Whether you are solo or in a twenty-car convoy, these routes are where memories are made and the legacy of the A-body is kept alive. Join us for our next sanctioned club cruise to experience these roads with the best crew in Southern California.