Despite its none-too subtle name and the lack of real granite anywhere on the grounds, Planet Granite in Santa Clara, CA is a pretty decent rock climbing place. The weight machine and yoga/pilates classes worried me a little bit, thinking that it might be more of a general workout place than a rock climbing gym but was I wrong. It's pretty big with plenty of faces to scale up. There's also a bouldering section near the back. It's pretty expensive for non-members starting out as there is a $30 belay lesson fee plus a $16 day pass plus equipment (around $4). But a student membership is a decent deal. Each month (unlimited usage of the facilities) is $42 and they include the belay lesson free if you need it. Rentals are $4 for harness/shoes every time you go, or you coudl buy your own pair.

I'm a complete neophyte so rock climbing and bouldering for me is an exercise in performing pull ups. All in all, about 3 and a half hours and I'm completely worn out (this include belaying time for a partner and lots of bouldering time). Plenty of energy left to do bench presses and running and what not. Absolutely NO forearm strength left. A lot of fun though, and with my 2 month membership, I'll definitely be going back often. Once I get my own equipment, popping in for a quickie during lunch should be rather fun. It's a bit far (6 miles) from Cisco but not too bad. If you're in the bay area, specifically Milpitas, Santa Clara, Mountain View and vicinity, a pretty decent place to get started. There's a bouldering only gym in san jose (called Touchstone I think) but no scaling up tall walls...and no fun belay rides down!