OC Exits For Dummies

I didn’t write this, but I know the guy who did. He’s been making the long journey from Hermosa Beach to Costa Mesa everyday for the past five years. The hilarious/sad part is: he wrote this all from memory (and experience).


You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll probably suggest he get another job closer to home.


Excerpt from the email: "I've got O.C. dialed. I know every exit on the 405… "


Westminster-great stop. Motel 6, In-n-Out, 76 Station.


Bellflower-Chevron with a nice mart and easy accessed bathroom.


Brookhurst-a 1/4 mile detour earns you a plethora of choices from Exxon, Mobil and Chevron, to the holy grail: Starbucks. Plus, if you need some last-minute stirrups for your Wednesday night softball game, there is a Big 5 behind the strip mall on the left.


Best car dealers: tie -- Beach Blvd. or Lake Forest Blvd. Both have a nice selection but Beach has more white 2-wheel drive pick-ups.


Best IKEA
Harbor - way better than Carson. Known as super IKEA to insiders. Bigger, newer and has warmer cinnamon buns. Skol!


Best Airport
Three-way tie: LAX for numerous international and direct flights options, and SNA at MacCarthur for in-terminal amenities. Finally, LGB for its outside luggage carousel and trailer park-like terminals. (Sorry San Diego. You're not technically on the 405. No flights to Boston without stops in Phoenix and Cinci.)


Most useless exit:
Palos Verde - had no services or green cliffs, for that matter.


Best spot for tire change ON the freeway:
1/2 mile past Seal Beach Blvd. - there is a unusually wide shoulder, sheltered partially by a sound wall. If you get a wobble, make an effort to get here if you can't exit. It could save your life.


Finally, consider making a stop at the Magnolia Diner for late-night eats. There is a roller skating rink and go-karts across the street if you feel like taking a spin.