The 10 Best Gym Facilities in California for 2026

Ten facilities made this list, located in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Jose, and San Francisco. Ratings for these venues range from 4.4 to 5.0. The selection includes a mix of specialized combat sports gyms, athletic clubs, CrossFit boxes, Lagree studios, a YMCA, and a multi-use facility.

Rankings are determined by multiplying the rating by the log of the review count, with no paid placements.

1. THE ARENA | The Boxing, Jiu Jitsu, MMA & Muay Thai Gym in San Diego

Located in San Diego, this gym holds a 4.8 rating from 1,343 reviews. Members describe the team as welcoming and friendly. One review highlights coach Joe as a knowledgeable boxing coach who is well known within the boxing community.

2. Los Angeles Athletic Club

This Los Angeles facility has a 4.5 rating based on 1,365 reviews.

3. The Plex

The Plex in San Jose has a 4.4 rating from 1,385 reviews. A recent review mentions that the bouncing house is open on weekend afternoons, though not in the mornings.

4. War House Gym

With a 5.0 rating from 397 reviews, this San Diego gym is noted for its unique machines and excellent staff. The facility uses QR codes on equipment to provide instructional videos, and reviews mention a clean environment where people rerack weights.

5. LFBA Studios – SJ Berryessa

This San Jose studio earns a 5.0 rating from 397 reviews. It offers 40-minute Lagree classes from early morning until evening. Reviews describe the instructors as professional and energizing within a clean environment.

6. CrossFit Humanity

Located in San Diego, this gym maintains a 5.0 rating from 395 reviews.

7. The Lab Athletic Club

This Los Angeles gym has a 4.9 rating from 405 reviews. It is described as a curated facility with equipment for athletes and those serious about working out. One reviewer specifically recommends the owner, Rocco.

8. Barbell Brigade Gym

Based in Los Angeles, this gym has a 4.7 rating from 427 reviews. It offers $25 day passes and is described as clean and well maintained with friendly staff.

9. CrossFit ATR

This San Diego facility holds a 5.0 rating from 281 reviews. Reviews highlight a supportive community and knowledgeable coaches who provide scalable workouts in a clean, well-equipped facility.

10. Embarcadero YMCA

Located in San Francisco, the Embarcadero YMCA has a 4.5 rating from 511 reviews.

How we ranked these

Our list is generated using a formula that weights the rating against the volume of feedback. For more details, see our methodology.

Americano Sports Editors

Americano Sports Editors

Americano Sports is maintained by a small editorial team. Venue facts come from public listing data and each venue's own website; rankings follow rating weighted by review volume, never payment. Spotted something wrong? Tell us through the contact page.