California might be synonymous with beaches and sunshine, but the Golden State has one of the strongest ice skating communities in the country. With a warm climate keeping outdoor ice impractical, California's rinks are almost entirely indoors and open year-round — meaning you can work on your crossovers in January or lace up after a summer hike in July. Here are the best ice skating rinks across California.
Los Angeles Area
Pickwick Ice Center — Burbank
One of the most storied rinks in Southern California, Pickwick Ice Center in Burbank has been the home rink for countless competitive skaters, coaches, and even a few Olympic champions. Located just minutes from the major Hollywood studios, it's not unusual to see professional figure skaters training alongside enthusiastic beginners during public sessions. Pickwick features three sheets — two NHL-sized and one smaller studio rink — open year-round. Adult admission runs around $18, with skate rentals, helmets, and wrist guards available at the main counter. The pro shop offers professional sharpening with a full range of hollow options.
The rink hosts a robust freestyle program popular with figure skaters from across the greater Los Angeles area. Check pickwickice.com for current session times.
Lakewood Ice — Lakewood
Serving the South Bay and Long Beach area, Lakewood Ice is a two-sheet facility with strong youth figure skating and hockey programs. Public skating admission is around $15 for adults. The rink has a solid freestyle schedule and is a good option for skaters in the Long Beach, Compton, and Torrance corridor.
San Francisco Bay Area
Solar4America Ice at San Jose
If you're looking for one of the best ice skating facilities in Northern California, look no further than Solar4America Ice at San Jose. Operated by the San Jose Sharks, this impressive complex features four NHL-sized sheets open year-round. It's one of the largest ice facilities on the West Coast and serves as a home base for Bay Area competitive figure skaters and hockey players alike. Adult admission is around $16, with a full-service pro shop offering sharpening with custom hollow selection. Freestyle sessions are available throughout the day across multiple sheets.
Oakland Ice Center — Oakland
Right across the Bay, Oakland Ice Center is a cornerstone of Bay Area skating culture with two full sheets. Located in downtown Oakland, it offers strong figure skating and hockey programs at around $16 per adult session. The facility has a friendly community atmosphere and is a great option for East Bay skaters.
San Diego Area
San Diego Ice Arena
One of San Diego County's premier ice facilities, the San Diego Ice Arena features two full NHL-sized sheets in the Mira Mesa area of San Diego. The pro shop offers sharpening with custom hollow selection, and the rink runs a comprehensive freestyle program with sessions daily. Adult admission runs around $16, with full rental service including helmets and wrist guards. The rink hosts a strong figure skating and hockey community year-round.
Poway Ice Rink — Poway
A city-operated facility in North San Diego County, Poway Ice Rink offers an accessible, affordable public skating experience for families in the Poway, Rancho Bernardo, and 4S Ranch area. Adult admission is around $12. While smaller than private rinks, it's well-maintained and a great entry point for beginner skaters and families.
Ventura County / Inland Empire
Iceoplex at Simi Valley
Iceoplex at Simi Valley is a two-sheet facility serving the Conejo Valley and Ventura County with year-round programming. Adult public skating is around $15, and the rink has active figure skating and hockey programs. It's the top option for skaters in Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, and surrounding communities.
Icetown Riverside
For skaters in the Inland Empire, Icetown Riverside is a two-sheet year-round facility with a strong Learn to Skate program and competitive figure skating community. Adult admission runs around $16. Located just off the 91 freeway, it serves Riverside, Corona, Moreno Valley, and surrounding communities.
Tips for Skating in California
Year-round availability is the norm. Unlike many parts of the country, nearly every California rink is a climate-controlled indoor facility open 365 days a year. Summer skating is just as easy as winter skating.
Competitive programs are strong. California regularly produces top-tier figure skaters and hockey players. If you're looking for coaching, most California rinks have coaches affiliated with US Figure Skating available for lessons.
Check for open hockey sessions. Hockey culture is growing rapidly in California. Many rinks offer adult open hockey sessions that welcome skaters of all skill levels.
For a complete directory of California ice skating rinks, see the California state rink guide.