Hotels in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake: A Mountainous Retreat of Lakeside Charm and Heritage

Nestled amid the majestic San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake enchants visitors with its picturesque landscapes and cosy small-town charm. This delightful destination offers a perfect blend of lakeside serenity and mountain adventure, inviting travellers to explore scenic trails, quaint churches, and serene waters. Whether enjoying a leisurely boat ride on the beautiful Big Bear Lake or savour the tranquillity of its pristine nature, every moment here is steeped in natural beauty and peaceful allure.

Discover great hotels near Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake offers a variety of hotel accommodations, ranging from cozy lodges to modern resorts. Visitors can find options with scenic lake views, rustic charm, and easy access to outdoor activities. Whether you seek a romantic getaway or a family retreat, Big Bear Lake hotels cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Big Bear Lake:

1. Cathy's Cottagesopens in new window: This charming 3.0-star lodge offers a unique blend of comfort and style, highlighted by a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. With a focus on providing a distinctive travel experience, guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms tailored for relaxation. The hotel is particularly suited for leisure travellers seeking a serene retreat, featuring inviting communal spaces and a tranquil setting. Review sentiments reflect satisfaction with the cleanliness and overall pleasant atmosphere, making it an appealing choice for those looking to unwind in a delightful environment.
2. Gold Mountain Manor Bed and Breakfastopens in new window: A stunning 4.0-star Bed and Breakfast, Gold Mountain Manor Bed and Breakfast boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. This property is a haven for adventure seekers, offering easy access to ski shuttles and lifts, along with a myriad of exhilarating outdoor activities such as snowboarding and mountain biking. The historical charm of the accommodation, combined with luxurious amenities and beautifully maintained grounds, creates a memorable experience. Positive review sentiments highlight the exceptional breakfast and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for leisure travellers seeking an adventurous getaway.
3. Tao Cabinsopens in new window: This inviting 3.0-star motel features a commendable guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. With a focus on comfort and affordability, the property provides a delightful stay for travellers looking for a relaxing escape. Amenities include a restaurant offering diverse dining options, ensuring guests can enjoy satisfying meals without venturing far. The positive feedback emphasises the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms, making it a fantastic choice for leisure travellers who appreciate a pleasant and hassle-free lodging experience.

Where to stay near Big Bear Lake

In Big Bear City, Sugarloaf, Fawnskin, each offers a distinctive appeal: Big Bear City enchants with mountain adventures and nature pursuits; Sugarloaf delights with a cosy, family-friendly atmosphere and quaint charm; Fawnskin captivates with live music, scenic hikes and floral beauty. For first-time visitors, Big Bear City provides the ideal blend of excitement and natural splendour.

1. Big Bear Cityopens in new window: Big Bear City is the heart of outdoor adventure, offering stunning mountain views and easy access to Big Bear Lake. It's a haven for snowboarding and skiing enthusiasts in winter, while summer brings opportunities for kayaking and hiking through beautiful natural parks. The local art scene adds a unique charm, with galleries showcasing local talent. This area is perfect for those who love to camp and immerse themselves in nature, making it a fantastic base for exploring the forests and enjoying excursions like scenic drives and wildlife spotting.
2. Sugarloafopens in new window: Sugarloaf is a small-town gem that radiates a friendly vibe, making it ideal for families. Its proximity to the lake ensures that leisurely days can be spent enjoying the water, while sledding and family-friendly entertainment options keep everyone engaged. The area is dotted with cosy coffee shops perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. With a welcoming atmosphere and community spirit, Sugarloaf is a lovely spot to relax and connect with nature, all while being close to Big Bear's attractions.
3. Fawnskinopens in new window: Fawnskin is a tranquil escape nestled by the lake, perfect for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. This charming area is known for its hiking trails, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and a variety of wildflowers. The local music scene adds a fun twist, with live performances often taking place in community spaces. Fawnskin’s campgrounds offer great spots for families to bond over nature, making it a wonderful choice for a laid-back stay surrounded by the great outdoors.

Things to do in Big Bear Lake

Nestled amidst towering mountains and serene forests, Big Bear Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its sparkling waters perfect for boating and fishing, and trails inviting hikers to explore, there's no shortage of activities. In winter, the snowy slopes beckon to skiers and snowboarders, making it a year-round retreat for nature lovers.

• Big Bear Marinaopens in new window – Start your journey at Big Bear Marina, where you can rent boats and explore the serene waters of the lake. Whether you prefer fishing, kayaking, or just enjoying the views, this marina is a fantastic launch point for your adventures.
• Pine Knot Marinaopens in new window – Just a short distance away, Pine Knot Marina offers a range of water activities. Rent a pontoon or take a guided tour to experience the beauty of Big Bear Lake from a different perspective. The surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop.
• Pine Knot Parkopens in new window – Take a break from the water at Pine Knot Park, a lovely urban park perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Enjoy the well-maintained paths and lush greenery, ideal for families and anyone looking to relax in nature.
• Metcalf Bayopens in new window – Head over to Metcalf Bay for a quieter spot to enjoy the lake. This picturesque bay is perfect for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. The tranquil environment makes it a great place for reflection and relaxation.
• North Shore Recreation Areaopens in new window – Finally, don’t miss the North Shore Recreation Area. This park features a variety of trails for hiking and biking, alongside spots for fishing and picnicking. Embrace the outdoors and take in the stunning views of the mountains and the lake.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Big Bear Lake

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most wallet-friendly period to visit Big Bear Lake is during May, June, and November, when hotel prices may drop to lower prices. For a comprehensive experience of the area's landmarks, history and culture—including attractions such as the lake, ski, mountain, snowboarding, hiking, smalltown, camping, beer, excursions, and churches—a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is ideal, offering affordable, budget-friendly options that provide great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: You may discover great savings on your next trip to Big Bear Lake by exploring the Dealsopens in new window section on Hotels.com. For those planning a spontaneous getaway, the Last-Minute Deals area offers discounted hotel rates close to your travel dates. Additionally, the Smart Shopping app feature allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see competitive offers should rooms become available or prices drop. Stay alert with email or push notifications to seize the opportunity to book a hotel deal when the time is right.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may vary depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your dates might help you save on your stay in a Big Bear Lake hotel. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised service and potentially better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average, and if it is on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could offer a more attractive deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually command higher prices, but thanks to Big Bear Lake's excellent public transport links, you might find an independent hotel further afield that is more likely to be affordable while still being well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 42.1°F (5.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.3°F (23.5°C). December is usually the wettest month. February, March, and December are the peak travel months in Big Bear Lake, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, May, June, and September tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no rainfall and sunny conditions.