To the OP: Best thing I ever did was start exploring my local area from home.
Nothing better than having several "go to" rides available from your front door.
Pro Tip: Identify local communities that are "No Commercial Zones." You will not have nearly the street nor truck traffic.
The streets are also in better shape and not beat-up. The locals I find are pretty laid back and respectful of cyclists.
Where in SoCal are you?