ditto what SofaGeorge said; about MuscleBeach, try to work arms or one of the smaller groups, the equipment is somewhat scant and the benches get hot as fuck from sitting under the sun all day. Also, no open-toe shoes (sandals) there... Met some cool people at the pit -- including a bouncer that got me into one of the clubs (Club 51? Can't remember) where they were having a hustler kick off party, crazy shit... but I digress...
If you get a chance, hit Worlds Gym in Venice; has a nice outdoor area and has a great atmosphere. The Powerhouse sucked when I went (didn't allow deadlifting, didn't have any collars), but maybe it's better now.