Top reasons to visit Big Bear Lake
- Adventure Awaits: Big Bear Lake is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering exhilarating skiing at renowned resorts like Bear Mountain.
- Scenic Beauty: Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, the area boasts stunning landscapes and picturesque views.
- Relaxing Retreat: Enjoy leisurely strolls along the lake boardwalk and unwind in a tranquil natural setting.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming lodges to pet-friendly resorts, catering to every traveller's needs.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The destination offers a variety of outdoor excursions suitable for families and adventurers alike.
Find great hotels in and around Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake offers a delightful selection of lodgings, perfect for those seeking adventure, family-friendly experiences, or pet-friendly options. From charming lodges to inviting resorts, you’ll discover an array of accommodations to suit every traveller’s needs. Whether you choose the serene Lagonita Lodge or other top hotels in the area, your stay at Big Bear Lake promises to be both memorable and enjoyable.
- Citrus Suites Redlands Loma Linda Hotel: Nestled 34km from Big Bear Lake, Citrus Suites Redlands Loma Linda Hotel offers a budget-friendly lodging experience with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This hotel is ideal for business travellers seeking a comfortable and economical stay. The property features essential amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay while catering to the practical needs of those on business trips.
- Ayres Hotel Redlands – Loma Linda: Located 34km from Big Bear Lake, Ayres Hotel Redlands – Loma Linda boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, making it an excellent choice for families and pet owners. This 3-star property is designed with family-friendly amenities, including free cribs and specialised services for children. The hotel also welcomes pets, complete with a range of provisions for furry companions, making it a versatile option for varied traveller needs.
- Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge At Big Bear Lake by IHG: Situated in the heart of Big Bear Lake, Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge At Big Bear Lake by IHG is a charming 3-star retreat catering to families and ski enthusiasts alike. Guests can enjoy easy access to ski shuttles and lifts, making it a prime pick for winter sports lovers. The property also offers amenities tailored for children, such as free cribs, a children's club, and nearby sledding opportunities, ensuring a fun-filled family experience.
Where to stay in and around Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake, nestled in the picturesque San Bernardino Mountains, offers an idyllic retreat for adventurers and families alike. This charming city is perfect for ski enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, with its stunning landscapes and friendly atmosphere. Explore the scenic Big Bear Valley, embark on exhilarating excursions, and unwind in a relaxing environment that feels like a dream getaway. Whether you're seeking thrilling activities or serene moments, Big Bear Lake promises an unforgettable experience.
- Moonridge: Nestled around the scenic Big Bear Lake, Moonridge is a charming neighbourhood that attracts visitors for its seasonal allure, particularly from July to September. With a focus on outdoor adventures and skiing, this area boasts easy access to ski resorts and picturesque ski fields. The stunning local landmarks, including the lake, mountains, and charming beaches, provide a perfect backdrop for winter sports and summer activities alike. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or enjoying a hike, Moonridge promises a memorable outdoor experience.
- Sugarloaf: Located a mere 8km from Big Bear Lake, Sugarloaf is a vibrant city that offers a blend of adventure and relaxation throughout the year. While summer and winter months see a spike in visitors, Sugarloaf remains a delightful destination for those seeking outdoor experiences, shopping, and skiing. With its proximity to beautiful lakes, serene beaches, and the expansive national state park, visitors can explore nature while enjoying the local shopping centre. Sugarloaf is an ideal spot for a well-rounded adventure.
- Big Bear City: Situated 11km from Big Bear Lake, Big Bear City is a lively hub that attracts tourists seeking adventure and outdoor activities. With visitor numbers peaking in February, March, and December, the city is a favourite for skiing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The area is well-equipped with ski resorts and shopping opportunities, making it convenient for both thrill-seekers and casual visitors. Its close proximity to the lake, beautiful beaches, and national state park ensures plenty of options for exploration, making Big Bear City a must-visit during your stay.
Things to do near Big Bear Lake
Shopping
In Big Bear Lake, browse local shops like Big Bear Lake Village, featuring unique boutiques and gift stores. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Mountain Mall, located 16km away, where you can find a variety of shops and eateries to enhance your shopping experience.
Recreation
Big Bear Yoga offers rejuvenating classes amidst stunning mountain views, fostering mindfulness and relaxation. For a holistic experience, visit the Zen Spa, where you can indulge in revitalising massages and skin treatments, surrounded by tranquil nature, ensuring a peaceful retreat from daily life.
Adventure
Apple Valley Speedway offers exhilarating motor racing experiences, situated 48km from Big Bear Lake. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch thrilling races or participate in driving events, surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of motorsport enthusiasts and the roar of powerful engines.
Nightlife
Visit the Big Bear Lake Brewing Company for a selection of local craft beers and a lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed vibe, try the Moonridge Coffee Company, where you can enjoy warm drinks and occasional live music on weekends.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake presents numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free entry to attractions like Meadow Park, and consider visiting during the cheaper months of May to June or November. Mondays usually offer the lowest accommodation rates, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search features to find affordable hotels and consider combining bookings for additional savings. Also, keep an eye out for eco-certified hotels that support sustainability. Lastly, explore walking options for transport, as the area is easily navigable, helping you save on transport costs.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Big Bear Lake are May to June and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Big Bear Lake is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Big Bear Lake is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search feature enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to easily identify the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your Big Bear Lake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake offers a thrilling escape for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, featuring stunning marinas, scenic lakes, and urban parks. Key attractions include the Big Bear Mountain Resort and Bear Mountain, perfect for skiing and other outdoor activities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the area's natural beauty while enjoying beachside experiences and captivating scenery. A trip to Big Bear promises a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Bear Mountain: Located 6km from Big Bear Lake, Bear Mountain offers exhilarating outdoor adventures amidst stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding in winter, and hiking during warmer months, all surrounded by the natural beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest.
- Big Bear Lake: Situated a mere 1km from the heart of Big Bear Lake, this picturesque lake is ideal for a romantic getaway or family outing. Enjoy sunbathing on the beach, engaging in water sports, or simply soaking in the tranquil views of the surrounding mountains.
- Meadow Park: Nestled within Big Bear Lake, Meadow Park is a charming urban park that caters to families. With picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails, it provides a perfect space for outdoor activities while enjoying the serene city atmosphere.
Best time to go to Big Bear Lake
The best time to visit Big Bear Lake is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with light rain.