Where To Skate, Ski And Sled In And Around Capitola

Feeling inspired by the excitement of the Winter Games? You don’t have to travel far to get in on the seasonal spirit. Around Capitola, you’ll find places where families can lace up skates, enjoy indoor winter fun, or plan easy day trips to nearby skiing, tubing or sledding spots. Whether you’re looking to stay close to home or head out for a weekend adventure, these ideas can help you make the most of the season. Just be sure to double-check hours, weather conditions and reservation details before heading out.

⛸️ Ice Skating & Indoor Winter Fun

Winter Lodge

Address: 3009 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94306

Phone: (650) 493-4566

Details: A beloved seasonal outdoor ice rink that stays open for much of the winter and offers public skating sessions, rentals, and festive ambiance just south of San Francisco. The drive time from Capitola is about 2 hours, making it one of the closer non-San Jose rink alternatives if you want a seasonal outing.

Sharks Ice at San Jose

Address: 1500 S 10th St, San Jose, CA 95112

Phone: (408) 279-6000

Details: A full-size indoor rink with regular public skating sessions, rentals, and lessons throughout the year. It’s roughly a 1-hour drive from Capitola, making it a dependable option when the urge to hit the ice strikes.

🎿 Skiing, Snowboarding & Tubing — Day Trips

Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort

Address: 1 Dodge Ridge Rd, Pinecrest, CA 95364

Phone: (209) 965-3474

Details: Dodge Ridge offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, lessons, and snow play with a relaxed Sierra vibe and varied terrain. The resort is about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Capitola, depending on winter road conditions.

Bear Valley Mountain Resort

Address: 2280 CA-207, Bear Valley, CA 95223

Phone: (209) 753-2301

Details: Known for reliable snowfall and approachable runs, Bear Valley features skiing, snowboarding, and tubing during peak winter months. It’s approximately a 4-hour drive from Capitola, so it's best suited for a long day or overnight trip.

☃️ Outdoor Play & Sledding Spots

Winter in Capitola is more scenic than snowy, but fresh air and open space still shine this time of year. Cooler temperatures and lighter crowds make it an ideal season for coastal walks, quiet trails, and cozy time spent outdoors.

Capitola spots to consider:

• New Brighton State Beach offers bluff-top trails, coastal views, and peaceful winter walks when crowds thin out. It’s located right in Capitola, making it an easy option for getting outside without leaving town. (Source: California State Parks)

Further outdoors:

• Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park — This park provides towering redwoods, shaded trails, and cool-weather hiking about a 25 to 30-minute drive from Capitola, offering a welcome contrast to the coast without heading to a ski resort.

Bundle up, stay safe and have fun wherever winter takes you!

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