Hey traveler, and welcome to one of my favorite destinations in Southern California, Big Bear Lake! Believe it or not, Big Bear Lake is man-made, and it’s the ultimate travel destination all year round – especially for people who live in California! If you, too, are one of the many who want to visit this incredible destination, you’ll be wondering where to stay in Big Bear!
Not to worry! I’ve compared all the areas around Big Bear Lake and came up with a list of 6 amazing places to stay in Big Bear.
So, I can share with you that the best area to stay in Big Bear is the Village, where you’ll find a great range of dining and accommodation options, as well as cool activities to make your stay even more fun!
To make things even easier for you, I handpicked the best accommodations in each recommended area. You’ll find cabins, holiday homes, and cottages to suit every budget – whether you’re going on a luxury getaway or a budget-friendly trip, there’s something for you!
Just keep in mind that Big Bear is a super popular spot, so accommodations sell out before you know it. Make reservations in advance and secure your stay at the best rates!
Let’s go!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here’s a shortlist of the best accommodations, all located in the Big Bear Village:
Below, you have a map of the best areas to stay in Big Bear featured in this post:
1. The Village – where to stay in Big Bear for the first time
The Big Bear Village is the heart of Big Bear! Situated on the lake’s Southern shore, the Village has a cozy yet lively atmosphere and is home to many boutique shops, restaurants, and amazing accommodations. If you’re visiting for the first time, this is definitely the best place to stay in Big Bear!
FUN FACT: Before the lake even existed, the surrounding area was home to many grizzly bears, hence the name Big Bear! However, the name Big Bear Lake originally referred to the lake we now know as Baldwin Lake.
The Big Bear Village is the go-to spot for people visiting the area, so you can expect some crowds at all times of the year. And although the area is walkable, there’s quite a lot of traffic, so it can get noisy – keep this in mind if you’re looking for a quiet retreat!
But if you’re looking for a fun-filled holiday, the Village will deliver on all fronts! One of the top attractions near the Village is the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain (map)! Open year-round, the Alpine Slide offers bobsled tracks in winter and water slides in summer, so fun is guaranteed whenever you visit. Tickets are available on-site.
PRO TIP: When driving to Magic Mountain (or anywhere in the mountains), make sure you have chains in your car. During winter, the roads can get slippery, so chains are a necessity!
If you’re more of a water sports person, you’ll enjoy the Big Bear Marina (map). Here, you can rent boats, kayaks, jet skis, and even fishing boats, or you can try one of the water sports on offer, like tubing or wakeboarding.
Other fun ways to spend your time include shopping at The Village Shops and Courtyard (map), or go for a relaxing stroll with lake views at the Rotary Pine Knot Park (map).
In need of food recs? I’ll direct you to Tropicali (map), an amazing Hawaiian restaurant. But if Hawaiian food is not your thing, the Teddy Bear Restaurant (map) is a laid-back, family-friendly restaurant serving classic American food.
Finally, a few more words on getting around Big Bear. So, even though the Village is walkable, you’ll need a car to explore the rest of the area. Most people drive here from San Diego (2h 45 mins) or Los Angeles (1h 50 mins), so they have their own vehicle. But if you didn’t, you should consider renting a car – you’ll need it, especially if you choose to stay outside the Village!
TIP: The city of Big Bear Lake provides a free trolley for getting around the Village and getting to the ski resorts. The Free Big Bear Trolley is a great choice if you don’t want to drive all the time or you want to avoid traffic jams. More info on routes and schedules is available here.
In case you need any more info, the Big Bear Visitor Center (map) is right here in the Village, so you can ask for anything else.
Luxury hotel
This newly remodeled home is in a central location in the Big Bear Village and features 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, and front and back yards with barbecue facilities – perfect for up to 5 people. The spacious living room is perfect for relaxing, while the fully equipped kitchen is great if you want to cook your own meals.
Other accommodation options in Big Bear Village
Mid-Range
Cozy cabins with easy access to Big Bear Lake offering BBQ facilities, family rooms, and a kitchen
Budget
A pet-friendly hotel with an on-site tavern and pub, with rooms featuring coffee-making facilities, a TV, and a private bathroom
Airbnb
This 2-bedroom cabin has an outdoor deck overlooking the lake, a hot tub, and a living room with a fireplace
NOTE: For your stay in the Village (as well as all the other areas), I recommend cabins and holiday homes rather than hotels in Big Bear Lake. There are a couple of reasons for this: first, there aren’t that many hotels in Big Bear, California, and second, staying in vacation rentals is a much better way to experience the area.
However, if you want the traditional hotel experience, Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge At Big Bear Lake is a good option. Although it’s slightly lower-rated than what I usually recommend, it offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. This is also the best hotel in Big Bear if you want to be close to all the top sights.
Other Big Bear Lake hotels you can check out include Hotel Marina Riviera and Sierra Blue Hotel & Swim Club.
Things to do in the Village
- Spend a fun day at the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
- Rent a boat from the Big Bear Marina and go out on the lake
- Do some shopping at The Village Shops and Courtyard
- Have a fun family night at Big Bear Bowling Barn (map)
- Admire the views of Big Bear Lake at Rotary Pine Knot Park
- Go for dinner at Tropicali or at the Teddy Bear Restaurant
2. Boulder Bay – the best area in Big Bear for a relaxing stay
The Boulder Bay area is situated on the lake’s Southwest shore, just 2.5 miles (4 km) West of the Village. Compared to the Village, this area is quieter and more relaxed, making it the ideal choice if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle but still be a short distance from the top attractions.
One thing you should know about Boulder Bay is that the landscape is steeper and more rocky, but don’t let this turn you away! The views from here are absolutely magnificent, and you can take some amazing photos!
Boulder Bay Park (map) is a great place to spend the day, whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with kids. The park is very family-friendly – in fact, the whole neighborhood is great for family stays. During the summer months, you can also go swimming from the park, as this is one of the designated swimming areas in Big Bear.
Another kid-friendly attraction nearby is the Gold Rush Mining Company Adventures. Just a 3-min drive away from Boulder Bay, this interactive amusement park allows kids to mine for crystals, uncover pirate treasures, harvest pearls, and more!
TIP: The weather in Boulder Bay, much like in many other places in Big Bear, can get quite chilly and windy. Even if you’re visiting in summer, be sure to pack some layered clothing!
The Pleasure Point Marina (map) is situated in Boulder Bay, so you can rent boats and jet skis and have a fun day out on the lake.
But if you’re more into hiking, the Castle Rock Trail (see trail map) is right near Boulder Bay. This moderate route allows you to experience the beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest and get some physical activity during your holiday!
Luxury hotel
Just a short walk away from the lake, this holiday home has 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, plus a patio with lake views, a fireplace, and a hot tub. Guests will also benefit from free private parking and free Wi-Fi access and try out many fun activities available nearby.
Other accommodation options in Boulder Bay
Mid-range
A lakefront home with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, a hot tub, and large immersive windows providing stunning lake views
Budget
A historic cottage featuring 1 bedroom with a queen-sized bed, a wood-burning stove, and a small kitchen
Airbnb
This small and cozy condo is decorated in unique and modern style, has a brand-new kitchen and a fireplace
Things to do in Boulder Bay
- Pack a picnic and spend the day at Boulder Bay Park
- Take the kids to the Gold Rush Mining Company Adventures
- Enjoy dinner at Blanca’s Restaurant (map)
- Rent a boat from the Pleasure Point Marina and go out on the lake
- Hike the Castle Rock Trail
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3. Moonridge – where to stay in Big Bear Lake for skiing
For all my readers who love winter sports and adventure, the Moonridge area will become your favorite part of Big Bear Lake! It’s located 4 miles (6.5 km) Southeast of the Village, and it’s famously known as the village surrounding the Snow Summit Ski Resort. Even though this is a mostly residential area, be prepared to meet a lot of out-of-town visitors!
Yep, here you can hit the slopes and stay at some of the best cabin rentals in town. Big Bear Lake is famous for its idyllic landscapes, but just wait until you go up in the mountains; the views are pretty iconic!
The most popular spot to hit the slopes is Snow Summit (map). And when I say popular, I mean it – the lines to get to slopes can be super long. So, I recommend getting your tickets in advance – not only will you avoid the lines, but online tickets are cheaper, too.
Even though Snow Summit is highly frequented, especially by families with kids, this is not the only ski resort in the area! There’s also the Bear Mountain ski resort (map), which has a bit more advanced slopes. But, the Big Bear Mountain elevation is 7,140 ft/2,176 m, so the drop is much steeper – not suitable for young kids!
NOTE: The Big Bear Mountain Resort encompasses 3 mountains – Snow Summit, Snow Valley, and Big Bear Mountain. The Snow Valley Mountain Resort (map) is a bit further away from the other 2, but it’s another great choice for skiing in the area.
At the base of the mountains, you’ll find plenty of shops, restaurants, and tons of old and newer vacation rentals. And while I’m sure that the ski resorts will take most of your time, you should know there are also other activities such as golfing at the Bear Mountain Golf Course (map) or visiting some cute animals at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo.
Lastly, I have to recommend Dank Donuts (map), where you can enjoy super delicious donuts, and the Moonridge Coffee Company (map), a nice spot to grab some coffee.
Luxury hotel
Ultimate comfort, a modern yet rustic design, and some incredible mountain views make this place one of the best cabin rentals in Big Bear Lake! Come back from a day spent at the Snow Summit Ski Resort and warm up by the fireplace in this cabin that offers easy access to the hiking trails and has a balcony and kitchen.
Other accommodation options in Moonridge
Mid-Range
A 3-bedroom chalet just minutes away from the lake, offering a large wraparound deck and a wood-burning fireplace
Budget
The perfect spot for traveling with pets, this budget-friendly cabin has 2 bedrooms and is great for 4 people
Airbnb
Offering easy access to the mountain resort, this vacation rental has a hot tub and an indoor fireplace
Things to do in Moonridge
- Hit the slopes at the Snow Summit Ski Resort
- Visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo
- Go skiing at the Bear Mountain ski resort
- Play some golf at the Bear Mountain Golf Course
- Get some donuts from Dank Donuts and coffee from the Moonridge Coffee Company
- Explore one of the many hiking trails near Moonridge
4. Big Bear City – where to stay with family
Are you craving some adventure? Or maybe you wish to escape the city life and enjoy a more laid-back environment? Either way, you’re in good hands because Big Bear City will guarantee you all that! Located on the Eastern shore of the lake and 5 miles (8 km) East of The Village, this is the best place to stay in Big Bear if you’re vacationing with your family.
Most of the activities in Big Bear City, much like anywhere in the area, include spending time in nature, hiking, or skiing. Still, there are quite a few other things you can do and have fun as a family.
The first thing I’d recommend is a visit to the Big Bear Valley Historical Museum (map). This is not your typical museum – and the kids will love it! During your visit, you’ll go on a tour of several wood cabins full of various artifacts, and the kids can try panning for gold or watch the blacksmith crafting items they can later take home as souvenirs!
FUN FACT: Many Hollywood movies like Gone with the Wind, Frankenstein, Magnolia, and other blockbusters, were filmed in Big Bear.
Another great spot for the whole family is Big Bear Snow Play (map), a family-friendly recreation center and the best place to try snow tubing! I would also suggest going out to Baldwin Lake (a 7-min drive away) and try horseback riding at the Baldwin Lake stables (map)!
TIP: If you happen to visit on a weekend between September and November, don’t miss the Big Bear Oktoberfest. This annual celebration takes place at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center (map) and offers authentic German entertainment!
You can enjoy a meal at Thelma’s Family Restaurant & Bakery (map), but eating out in Big Bear, especially if you’re traveling with family, can get quite pricey. I encourage you to book accommodation with a kitchen or at least a barbecue so you can cook your own food. And if you need cooking supplies, the Community Market (map) will have everything you need.
If you still have some time left, I highly recommend you go for a walk around the so-called ‘Peter Pan neighborhood.’ Situated between Greenway Drive and Van Dusen Canyon, this neighborhood features both newer homes and older Maltby-style houses (A-shaped houses). The neighborhood is very charming and a great place to admire the architecture.
PRO TIP: If you’re staying somewhere near the Whispering Forest neighborhood, you should know that this area is often visited by mountain lions and black bears, so you need to be extra cautious!
Luxury hotel
I love this vacation rental. Everything from the rustic design to the fireplace makes this place look so cozy! And what better way to enjoy those beautiful views than sitting in a hot tub, relaxing, and taking it all in! The Big Bear Lake accommodation has 2 rooms, a kitchen, and free Wi-Fi.
Other accommodation options in Big Bear City
Mid-Range
This top-rated property offers private rooms, access to a shared kitchen, an outdoor fireplace, and a complimentary American breakfast
Budget
A cozy studio that offers views of the forest, a comfy Queen bed, and a well-equipped kitchen
Airbnb
A tastefully decorated cabin, with 2 bedrooms and 2 baths, and a large backyard deck with barbecue facilities
Things to do in Big Bear City
- Visit the Big Bear Valley Historical Museum
- Try snow tubing at Big Bear Snow Play
- Go horseback riding at the Baldwin Lake stables
- Dine at Thelma’s Family Restaurant or get food from the Community Market
- Admire the unique architecture in the Peter Pan neighborhood
- Enjoy a drink or a meal at the Lumberjack Cafe (map)
5. Sugarloaf area – where to stay in Big Bear for a local vibe
If you’re looking for a place in Big Bear where you can immerse yourself in local life, then Sugarloaf is the perfect choice for you! This residential area is located a 15-min drive Southeast of the Village and it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Back in the 1950s, the Sugarloaf area hosted the first ski resort in Big Bear. However, this ski resort is no longer there, so the area attracts less tourists. Well, if you’re the type of traveler who wants to stay away from the crowds, this is great news for you!
One of the best things to do in the neighborhood is visit Sugarloaf Park (map), a small but very kid-friendly park with a nice playground. Another thing you shouldn’t skip is going for a hike in the Pebble Plains (map). This nature preserve offers numerous hiking trails that are both kid and dog-friendly, so it’s a great time for everyone.
Seeing as this is a very local area, there’s not much more to do. You can grab a quick bite at Kallans Bar And Grill (map), but if you’re looking for more activities, I suggest driving to the Village and finding something to do there or going for a drive in the nearby Fox Farm area.
Luxury hotel
The atmosphere of this log cabin will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, but you’ll still be able to enjoy modern luxuries, like a hot tub, smart TVs, and Wi-Fi. You can get a fire going in the fireplace, relax on the outdoor deck, or have some fun in the games room.
Other accommodation options in the Sugarloaf area
Mid-range
A cozy cabin steps away from the forest, with 2 bedrooms, a large yard, a porch, and a full kitchen
Budget
This 2-bedroom cabin has an open common area with a TV and a fireplace, plus a backyard with a barbecue
Airbnb
This family-friendly cabin features 1 bedroom and a living room with a sofa bed, a children’s playroom, and a backyard
Things to do in the Sugarloaf area
- Take the kids to Sugarloaf Park
- Go hiking in the Pebble Plains
- Grab a meal at Kallans Bar And Grill
- Drive out to the Village and spend a fun day there
6. Fawnskin – where to stay in Big Bear for lake views
Formerly a mining town, Fawnskin is the ultimate place to stay in Big Bear if you want to enjoy the best lake views. Nestled along the lake’s Northern shore, this lovely small town is only a 15-min drive from the Village and offers a quiet escape.
Besides enjoying the stunning views from your lakeside cabin, one of the best activities in the area is hiking! Fawnskin is very close to the Cougar Crest Trail (see trail map), a moderate route that meets the Pacific Crest Trail (see trail map), and a more challenging (but also more rewarding) hike!
NOTE: The area around Fawnskin is also ideal if you want to go camping. The Serrano Campground (map) is situated along the North shore of the lake, a short distance away from the town of Fawnskin. This is a modern campground with all the necessary facilities you’ll need for a comfortable stay. You can book a campsite here.
Other cool spots you can easily visit from Fawnskin include the Bear Valley Dam (map) and Treasure Island/Garstin Island (map), both situated along the lake’s Western tip. Nearby, you’ll also find an amazing swimming spot for those hot summer days – Pine Oak Lane North Beach (map) is just a 7-min drive from the center of Fawnskin.
The Captain John’s Fawn Harbor & Marina (map) is here if you want to rent a boat or a kayak, while the Fawnskin Market (map) is the place to get some food supplies. Unfortunately, there are no restaurants in the area, so plan on cooking during your stay in Fawnskin (or heading to the nearby areas of Boulder Bay and Big Bear Village).
Luxury hotel
This gorgeous villa boasts a living area with wall-to-wall windows that offer stunning views of the lake, 2 outdoor decks, and a hot tub. Other perks of staying at this luxury home include access to a game room and a library, warming up by one of the 3 fireplaces, and free parking for up to 3 cars.
Other accommodation options in Fawnskin
Mid-range
A 3-bedroom cabin where you can enjoy on-site sledding, stay warm by the fireplace, or fire up the grill
Budget
This quiet room is in a mountain home and has a comfortable queen-sized bed and access to a private bathroom
Airbnb
With the national forest as its backdrop, this pet-friendly cottage features 2 bedrooms and a full kitchen
Things to do in Fawnskin
- Hike the Cougar Crest Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail
- Visit the Bear Valley Dam and Treasure Island/Garstin Island
- Go swimming at Pine Oak Lane North Beach
- Rent a kayak from Captain John’s Fawn Harbor & Marina and go out on the lake
- Get some groceries from Fawnskin Market and cook a delicious dinner
- Check out the Big Bear Solar Observatory (map) and the Big Bear Discovery Center (map)
- Pack a picnic and spend the day at the Juniper Point Picnic Area (map)
- Go for a drive along the Rim of the World Scenic Byway (map)
FAQs about where to stay in Big Bear Lake
The best place to stay in Big Bear is the Big Bear Village, offering a variety of shops and restaurants, many opportunities for water sports, and some of the best Big Bear resorts and holiday rentals, like The Village Retreat and the Lakewood Cabins.
Big Bear Lake offers lots of activities all year round. Still, if you’re going there for skiing, then I recommend visiting between December and March. During summer, visit between May and late August if you want to try mountain biking or other outdoor activities.
To experience everything the area has to offer, I recommend staying in Big Bear for at least 3 days! This amount of time should be enough to go skiing or hiking, try some water sports, and explore the Big Bear Village.
Accommodation prices in Big Bear vary depending on the season. However, expect to pay approximately US$300 to US$350 per night for 2 people in a luxury accommodation, about US$200 for a mid-range stay, and US$130 for budget lodging in Big Bear.
Yes, you’ll find many unique cabins in Big Bear Lake! In fact, cabins are the most popular places to stay in Big Bear, and they outnumber Big Bear hotels. My favorite cabins in Big Bear include the Lakewood Cabins in the Village and Tree Hütte in Moonridge.
Moonridge is one of the best places to stay in Big Bear for snow and winter sports. From here, you’ll have easy access to both Snow Summit and Bear Mountains, and you can stay in incredible cabins like Tree Hütte and the Alpine Retreat.
Big Bear Lake is a picturesque mountain resort town known for its stunning lake, while Big Bear City, located nearby, is primarily a residential area with fewer tourist amenities.
Big Bear Lake has a maximum depth of approximately 72 feet (22 meters), making it a popular destination for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation in Southern California.
The best and safest road to Big Bear is Highway 18 through the Lucerne Valley. You can use this route if you’re coming from Los Angeles, San Diego, or even Las Vegas. More info is available here.
No, there are no grizzly bears in Big Bear. Even though the area was teeming with grizzlies in the 19th century, the only bear you can expect to see is a black bear. Even though bears don’t often venture among people, it’s wise to be careful.
Final thoughts on the best places to stay in Big Bear, CA
What a fabulous location! I hope you’ll have as much fun finding where to stay in Big Bear Lake as I’ve had in writing this post for you guys!
I know there are so many excellent accommodations in the post, and it can be hard to decide, so here are my top 2 favorite options, both located in the Big Bear Village:
- The Village Retreat – a newly renovated holiday home in a central location with a spa bath and parking for 2 cars
- Lakewood Cabins – lovely wooden cabins with comfy beds, offering access to barbecue facilities and a kids’ playground
As I said earlier, all the accommodations sell out super fast here, so I highly recommend booking yours in advance to get the best deals!
If you want to know more about Big Bear Lake, leave me a comment below, and I’ll answer as soon as possible!
Enjoy your adventure,
Hristina
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