It would also help to know what exposure your patio area has, whether it gets direct sun, bright shade, morning, all day or afternoon sun, and if you get direct winds and salt spray off the ocean or not. Recommendations for plants will also vary depending on how much care you wish to give them, will you be handwatering, installing an automatic drip system, etc?

You have so many choices in your climate, that it might be easier to state what won't grow in your location! I'd also suggest visiting some local nurseries to see what appeals to you, and look around your immediate neighborhood to see what is doing well with similar conditions to yours. Or just take a stroll down to nearby Venice Beach and walk the alleyways connecting to the beach. You will see lots of plants and small space gardens which may give you ideas for your own.

Bahia's recommendation is excellent. Bring a camera. For a fun field trip go to:

http://www.rainforestflora.com/about.htm

Foliage: Palms, Cycads, Shefflera. Flowers: Bougainvillea, Canna, Hibiscus. Bulbs: Agapanthus, Amaryllis, Clivia (latter needs a bit of shade ). Cacti: Any, but keep them COMPLETELY dry in winter. Orchid: None of my recommendations is ever without this - Cymbidium ( this also likes a bit of shade in summer). The choice is almost endless!

hi,i live in culver city and hang out in playa all the time
i am an avid grower of tropical plants.
we could meet up if you would like?
i usually go to the chinese at the end of culver every sat
gary