As the holiday season rolls around again, Ice Skating by the Bay has reopened for its annual stint in Monterey. Nestled in between the Portola Hotel and Fisherman’s wharf in the Custom House Plaza, Ice Skating By the Bay offers a unique experience for skaters as one of the few ice rinks with a view of California’s coastline.
For $15, skaters can purchase an all-day pass to access the rink, open from 11am to 10pm (except for Sundays). The rink also offers skate rentals for $5, which means this rink is available to people of all experience and skill levels. Regardless of whether you are already an experienced skater or total beginner, Ice Skating By the Bay is a great holiday activity for those looking to get away from Pacific Grove’s mild climate.
In my several trips to Ice Skating By the Bay, I have always found it enjoyable and worthwhile, although I have a couple of tips to maximise the experience. First and foremost, the most ideal time to go is between the hours of 6-10pm (except Sundays). Skating after sunset is much more enjoyable, with the seasonal soundtrack and ambient lighting adding to the nighttime atmosphere. Additionally, parking at the Waterfront Lot at Fisherman’s wharf is no longer charged after 8pm.
Note: If you arrive before 8pm you only have to pay a small amount for the time parked until then. Alternatively, the Sports Center Lot is a nearby 2-hour free parking time zone during the day.
The number and age of fellow skaters also tend to change over the course of the week. During weekdays before sunset, Ice Skating By the Bay typically has less people out on the ice at once. This is a pretty big advantage to going earlier in the day, since the rink itself is pretty small and experienced skaters usually like a little more room to skate. However, daytime hours usually attract a younger/kid crowd, especially on weekdays, so plan accordingly. Conversely, the evening hours (especially on weekends) tend to have more adults and more crowds in general. If you’re looking to show off your speed skating skills, I would avoid evenings (and small rinks like this in general). Expect the rink to be more crowded closer to Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Fortunately, Monterey never gets uncomfortably cold, so you don’t have to worry about bundling up. However, I still recommend wearing something warm, especially if you are a beginner to ice skating since falling on the ice is not uncommon. Thick, long socks are essential to making the skates as comfortable as possible. Rental skates in general are notorious for being poorly maintained and ill-fitting, but a good pair of socks can help. In my experience, the rental skates at Ice Skating By the Bay in particular are not exceptionally uncomfortable, but they tend to be a little dull so I prefer to use my personal skates. Plus, it saves me an extra $5 every time I go!
Finally, the best piece of advice I can give is to bring your friends or family with you. Especially for inexperienced skaters, the fun comes from spending time with loved ones during the holiday season.
Have fun out on the ice Breakers
