An Expanded, In Depth Winter Resource for Local Families, Visitors, and Holiday Enthusiasts

Southern California may not experience snow-covered rooftops or icy sidewalks, but during the holiday season, the South Bay and Los Angeles transform into a festive winter playground filled with twinkling lights, cheerful music, and most importantly, real ice skating experiences. For many families, holiday skating has become a beloved tradition, blending nostalgia, activity, and seasonal celebration in a uniquely Californian way. You can skate under towering skyscrapers, beside the ocean, within charming winter villages, or in year-round arenas that come alive during December with special programming and community spirit.

This expanded guide dives deeply into all the major ice skating venues that South Bay and Los Angeles residents look forward to each year. Whether you are planning a family outing, a holiday date night, an activity for visiting relatives, or a festive moment with kids, this comprehensive 3000 word resource highlights every option, what to expect, tips for maximizing your experience, and why skating has become such a lasting holiday tradition for Palos Verdes and South Bay families.

Why Ice Skating Has Become a Southern California Holiday Tradition

In regions with natural snowfall, skating is simply another winter pastime. But in Los Angeles, holiday ice skating feels special because it is so unexpected. The contrast between palm trees, sunshine, and a perfectly smooth ice rink creates a sense of novelty and wonder. Children who have never seen snow get to experience a little taste of winter magic, while adults enjoy stepping into what feels like a holiday movie set brought to life.

Ice skating in Southern California blends three unique elements that create its charm:

First, the atmosphere. These rinks are intentionally festive, surrounded by holiday decorations, music, lights, and often themed events. Skating here feels like stepping into a holiday celebration rather than simply a recreational activity.

Second, the settings. Few places in the world allow you to go ice skating outdoors with a view of the Pacific Ocean or beneath the glowing skyline of one of the largest cities in the country. Every rink offers a distinctive environment that enhances the experience in its own way.

Third, accessibility. Skating is one of the few holiday activities that is affordable, family friendly, and inclusive for all ages. Almost all rinks offer skate rentals, beginner supports, and staff who help young skaters or those stepping on ice for the first time.

Because of these elements, ice skating has become a treasured annual outing for many families in the South Bay and Palos Verdes communities. It brings people together across generations, encourages outdoor activity, and provides a joyful break from the busy holiday season.

Ice Skating Options in the South Bay

Local Convenience with the Festive Spirit of the Season

Families in Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills Estates, Torrance, Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Manhattan Beach often appreciate having skating options close to home. While the most dramatic seasonal rinks appear in places like Downtown Los Angeles or Santa Monica, the South Bay offers reliable year-round facilities that become especially popular during the holidays.

LA Kings Ice in the South Bay and Palos Verdes

This is one of the most accessible and practical choices for families looking to skate without driving far or dealing with heavy seasonal crowds. These rinks offer public sessions throughout the week, structured lessons, hockey training, figure skating clubs, and holiday themed events.

What makes South Bay ice rinks ideal during the holidays:

• They maintain high quality indoor ice that does not melt or become slushy.
• They offer consistent session times throughout the season.
• They provide skate rentals in a wide range of sizes.
• They are staffed with trained coaches who can help beginners.
• They offer plenty of parking and easy access for families with children.

For families with young skaters, year-round rinks tend to feel safer and more controlled. The boards create a boundary that helps new skaters regain balance, and the indoor temperature remains consistent. If you want a comfortable, crowd free skating experience that still captures the holiday spirit, these South Bay facilities are an excellent option.

Holiday Ice Skating in Downtown Los Angeles

The Most Iconic and Atmospheric Winter Rinks in the Region

During the holidays, Downtown Los Angeles becomes a festive hub full of lights, concerts, markets, and seasonal activities. It is also home to two of the most beloved holiday ice rinks in Southern California. These locations attract visitors from across the region and offer a quintessential holiday outing for families and couples.

L A Kings Holiday Ice at L A Live

The rink at L A Live returns every year as one of the most highly anticipated holiday attractions. Located next to Crypto dot com Arena, the outdoor rink sits in the middle of a lively entertainment plaza surrounded by huge screens playing holiday imagery, sparkling lights, and a towering Christmas tree that rises above the ice.

Why this rink is a Southern California favorite

The setting. The energy of the plaza, the music, and the towering holiday displays create an immersive atmosphere unlike any other rink in the region.

Evening ambiance. Skating under the lights feels magical, especially when the plaza glows with vibrant holiday colors.

Convenience. Families can combine skating with dining, movies, or exploring nearby holiday attractions.

Who this rink is perfect for:
• Teens looking for a lively evening activity
• Adults on a holiday date night
• Families hosting holiday guests who want a signature LA experience
• Anyone who loves bustling, high energy holiday environments

What to know before you go:
Tickets are sold only on site and include skate rentals. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.

Holiday Ice Rink at Pershing Square

A Downtown Classic with Skyline Views

Pershing Square offers a holiday tradition that has endured for many years. Located in the center of Downtown Los Angeles, the rink sits between tall office towers, creating the feeling of an urban winter village. Unlike indoor arenas, this outdoor rink captures the essence of a winter celebration surrounded by bright lights and city architecture.

What makes Pershing Square memorable

A classic holiday feel. With music, lights, and a festive layout, the rink appeals to both families and adults.

Skyline views. Few skating rinks in the country offer such dramatic city scenery while you glide across the ice.

Walkability. Pershing Square is close to restaurants, cafes, and holiday markets that often pop up nearby.

Skater friendly features include included skate rentals, optional locker storage, and skating aids for children.

Evening sessions are especially popular because the lighting transforms the rink into a sparkling winter scene. It is a wonderful choice for families coming into the city for holiday shows, concerts, or shopping.

Beachside Ice Skating in Santa Monica

Ice at Santa Monica: A Coastal Winter Wonderland

Perhaps the most unique skating option in Southern California is the seasonal rink in downtown Santa Monica. The 8000 square foot rink opens each year from late fall through mid January and attracts thousands of families who want to combine beachside charm with festive holiday tradition.

What makes Ice at Santa Monica special

The location. Few places in the world allow you to lace up skates just steps from the ocean. The coastal atmosphere creates a refreshing blend of winter and beach life that is quintessentially Californian.

The environment. Holiday lights, cheerful music, and friendly staff create a warm and welcoming environment for skaters of all ages.

Full day activity potential. Many families pair skating with shopping, dining on the Promenade, or watching the sunset at the pier.

Programming and events.
This rink offers themed nights, special performances, group reservations, and premium fire pit lounges for gatherings. December celebrations often include live music, special guest appearances, and holiday festivities.

Session information:
Tickets include skate rentals and provide a set window of time on the ice. This ensures the rink never becomes overcrowded.

Because Santa Monica draws visitors from all over the region, planning ahead is recommended, especially for weekend evenings.

West Hollywood Park Winter Village Ice Rink

West Hollywood has added new life to its holiday festivities by transforming West Hollywood Park into a whimsical Winter Village complete with an outdoor ice rink. This seasonal installation offers photo opportunities, cozy food stands, and holiday merchandise along with a full schedule of themed nights and performances.

Why skaters love this location

Creative themes. West Hollywood is known for its artistic culture, and the Winter Village programming reflects that spirit. Events often include music themed skates, pop culture celebrations, drag performances, and nights dedicated to local artists and small businesses.

Inclusive atmosphere. This rink attracts a wonderfully diverse crowd, making it one of the most welcoming and lively holiday environments in Los Angeles.

Convenient setup. The rink is large enough for beginners and experienced skaters alike, and rentals are included in the admission price.

This is a great choice for adults seeking a festive outing with personality and flair or for families with older teens who appreciate themed entertainment.

Enchant at Santa Anita Park

A Holiday Light Maze and Skating Trail

This seasonal holiday attraction is known for having one of the largest Christmas light mazes in the world, illuminated by a towering 100 foot structure that glows with color. Inside the festival, visitors find a skating trail rather than a traditional oval rink.

About the skating experience

The skating trail winds through glowing arches and sparkling decorations, creating a whimsical and immersive holiday activity. Instead of circling a conventional rink, guests glide along a path that feels like an enchanted winter forest.

This is especially magical for children who enjoy exploring different sections of the trail. Adults appreciate how peaceful and scenic the layout is, making it a standout experience among holiday attractions.

The skating trail is offered as an add on to the general admission ticket and is suitable for all ages.

Orange County Holiday Ice Skating Options

Popular Alternatives for South Bay Families

Many South Bay and Palos Verdes families travel between Los Angeles and Orange County for shopping, dining, and seasonal events. During the holidays, two OC skating destinations stand out.

Irvine Spectrum Center Ice Rink

The Irvine Spectrum is known for its shopping, restaurants, Ferris wheel, and entertainment. During the holidays, the center adds a beautiful open-air ice rink that attracts families, couples, and groups gathering for a day of winter fun.

What makes Irvine Spectrum skating appealing

A pristine ice surface. The rink undergoes resurfacing after every skating session to maintain excellent conditions.

Activity variety. Families can hop between holiday shopping, dining, the Ferris wheel, and the rink without ever leaving the plaza.

Holiday atmosphere. The center decorates extensively, creating a warm and festive environment filled with lights, music, and seasonal cheer.

This rink is ideal for families already planning a shopping day or those who want a polished, organized skating experience.

Winter Fest OC in Costa Mesa

Winter Fest OC is one of the most immersive seasonal festivals in Southern California. Along with ice skating, visitors can experience a walk-through forest of lights, ice tubing, carnival rides, snow play areas, live entertainment, seasonal treats, and themed performance zones.

Skating details

The rink here offers timed sessions of approximately forty five minutes. Since there are so many attractions on site, most families plan several hours at the festival, exploring both the ice rink and other activities.

This destination is perfect for families who want an all in one winter festival that blends skating with a wide array of seasonal attractions.

Mountain Ice Skating Adventures

SkyPark at Santa’s Village near Lake Arrowhead

If you are interested in combining skating with a true mountain holiday getaway, Santa’s Village near Lake Arrowhead offers an experience that feels straight out of a storybook. The Silver Bells Arena is a picturesque outdoor ice rink surrounded by tall pine trees, holiday lights, and the crisp mountain air.

Why it is worth the drive

Authentic winter setting. In December, you may even get real snowfall, transforming the area into a genuine winter wonderland.

Holiday programming. Breakfast with Santa, live performances, character meet and greets, and nighttime forest walks make this a full day experience.

Family friendly skating. Skate rentals are included, and the staff provides assistance to young or first time skaters.

For South Bay families who want a weekend holiday escape, Santa’s Village combines nature, skating, entertainment, and seasonal charm.

Planning Your Holiday Skating Outing

Tips and Tricks for a Smooth and Enjoyable Experience

To make the most of your holiday skating experience, consider the following recommendations.

Arrive early. Seasonal rinks often fill quickly, especially during the week before Christmas and on weekend evenings. Arriving early helps secure rentals and allows time for parking and check in.

Wear layers. Even when the daytime temperatures are warm, evenings can cool down. Light layers allow you to adjust comfortably as you warm up while skating.

Bring socks. Most rinks require socks for rentals, and thicker socks can make skates more comfortable.

Know the session schedule. Many outdoor rinks operate with timed sessions rather than open ended skating, so planning ahead prevents long waits.

Reserve online when available. Some rinks offer online reservations. Securing your time slot in advance ensures you will not miss out on your preferred session.

Check for themed nights. Many rinks host special events, including Santa meet and greets, live music, classical performances, holiday markets, or seasonal parties. These events add extra value and entertainment for families.

Consider weekday visits. Weekdays, especially in the early afternoon, tend to be less crowded and are ideal for families with young children or beginners.

Why Holiday Ice Skating Matters for South Bay and Palos Verdes Families

The South Bay and Palos Verdes Peninsula are known for their sense of community, beautiful scenery, and family oriented lifestyle. Holiday ice skating carries these same qualities, offering families a chance to slow down, enjoy one another, and create memories away from screens and distractions.

For many local families, skating marks the beginning of the holiday season. Children look forward to their yearly photo on the ice. Teens enjoy meeting friends at the rink. Parents appreciate an activity that feels wholesome and festive. Even grandparents can enjoy watching their grandkids glide across the rink while sipping warm cocoa.

Ice skating also serves as a connection point between generations. It is an activity almost anyone can participate in regardless of skill level. Whether you are confidently skating backward or holding the rail for the first time, the shared experience brings joy and laughter to everyone involved.

In a region where holiday traditions often require creativity, ice skating has become a centerpiece of the season for South Bay families.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate the Season with a Skating Tradition

Holiday ice skating in Southern California offers something special. It blends festive celebration with the beauty and charm of our region. You can skate under glowing city lights, beside the ocean, near a Ferris wheel, within a mountain forest, or inside a year round arena filled with joyful music and children learning new skills. Each location offers its own personality and experience, giving families endless ways to celebrate the holidays.

For residents of Palos Verdes and the South Bay, the assortment of skating options makes it easy to enjoy a full season of winter fun. Whether you prefer a quiet morning at a local rink, an afternoon by the beach, a vibrant evening in Downtown LA, or a full holiday festival in Orange County, you will find a skating destination perfect for your holiday mood.

Suzanne Dyer
Luxury Real Estate Specialist
Strand Hill | Forbes Global Properties
Over 1 Billion Dollars in Career Sales
Top Realtor in Rolling Hills, Palos Verdes Estates, and the South Bay
310 528 7480 | [email protected]
DRE 01054310