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Big Bear Lake
5,046 people (2020)
A popular year-round mountain resort offering boating, fishing, and skiing amidst stunning mountainous scenery.
Written by our AI
Sightseeing weather
May, June, August, September and October
Weather only, worked out from the town's records.
On the map
Where it is, and the other places we have mapped around it.
Skip the map- This place
- Things to do
- Places to eat
- Places to stay
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Tiles by OpenFreeMap.
Things to do in Big Bear Lake
25 of the 37 we list here · our AI's top picks first
Written by our AI
1Big Bear Alpine ZooTop pick·Wildlife & natureBig Bear Alpine Zoo is dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured animals and showcases a variety of species in a beautiful alpine setting.
2Bluff Lake ReserveTop pick·Wildlife & natureBluff Lake Reserve is a secluded nature reserve ideal for nature walks and wildlife sightings.
3Big Bear Snow PlayFamily & kids attractionsBig Bear Snow Play is a family favorite for snow tubing, offering thrilling rides down their dedicated lanes.
4Alpine SlideFamily & kids attractionsThe Alpine Slide is a thrilling ride that attracts visitors looking for adventure on the slopes.
5San Gorgonio WildernessWildlife & natureThis expansive wilderness area is perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
6Bighorn Mountain WildernessWildlife & natureThe Bighorn Mountain Wilderness is a stunning natural area perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and immersing oneself in nature.
7Sand to Snow National MonumentWildlife & natureThis unique national monument showcases a diverse range of ecosystems from desert to alpine environments.
8Eyes Of The World Vista PointScenic drives & viewpointsThis vista point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
9Bear Mountain Golf CourseOutdoor adventureThis golf course is known for its beautiful scenery and well-maintained greens, making it popular among golfers.
10Time Bandit Pirate ShipAttractions & monumentsThe Time Bandit Pirate Ship offers fun boat tours with a pirate theme, ideal for families and kids.
11Butler Peak Fire LookoutScenic drives & viewpointsButler Peak Fire Lookout provides breathtaking views of the San Bernardino Mountains and surrounding areas from its elevated position.
12Snow PlayAttractions & monumentsSnow Play offers various fun winter activities including sledding and tubing.
13Gold Rush Mining Company AdventuresAttractions & monumentsThis venue offers family-oriented activities including gold panning and mining experiences.
14Voodoo GardenOutdoor adventureVoodoo Garden is a vibrant outdoor space known for its artistic displays and community events.
15Bear Valley Dam Vista PointScenic drives & viewpointsBear Valley Dam Vista Point offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the dam itself.
16Swim BeachBeaches & waterSwim Beach offers a great spot for families to enjoy water play, picnics, and relaxation by the lake.
17Champion Lodgepole PineAttractions & monumentsChampion Lodgepole Pine is notable for being one of the largest pines in the region.
18Silverwood FallsOutdoor adventureSilverwood Falls is a stunning waterfall hidden in a tranquil setting, perfect for hiking and photography.
19King Clone Ecological ReserveWildlife & natureThis ecological reserve features the world's oldest living organism, a bristlecone pine tree, making it a unique spot for nature lovers.
20Van Dusen CabinAttractions & monumentsThe Van Dusen Cabin is a preserved historical site that provides a glimpse into early settler life in Big Bear.
21Big FallsOutdoor adventureA scenic waterfall accessible through hiking trails, perfect for a refreshing visit during warmer months.
22Monkeyface FallsOutdoor adventureA captivating waterfall that serves as an excellent photo stop for hikers.
23Big Bear Valley Historical SocietyMuseums & galleriesThis museum showcases the rich history of the Big Bear Valley area through various exhibits and artifacts.
24The Village Shops & CourtyardShopping & marketsThe Village Shops is a quaint area featuring a variety of shops and eateries.
254wd obstacleAttractions & monumentsThe 4wd obstacle course in Big Bear is a thrilling attraction for adventure seekers looking to test their off-road driving skills.
Durations, effort and best times are our AI's estimates.
Places to eat in Big Bear Lake
25 of the 79 we list here · our AI's top picks first
Written by our AI
1TropicaliTop pick·Poke, Hawaiian·Suits lunch, dinner·$$A colorful Hawaiian‑inspired restaurant known for fresh poke bowls, lake views, and a pleasant island vibe.
2Murray's Saloon and EateryTop pick·Suits lunch, dinner·$$A Village bar & grill popular for burgers, nachos, and bar‑food favorites with friendly staff and a fun village atmosphere.
3Grizzly Manor CafeTop pick·American·Suits breakfast, brunch·$$An iconic breakfast spot known for huge portions, quirky mountain‑diner energy and long weekend lines.
4Teddy Bear RestaurantTop pick·Suits breakfast·$A family‑friendly spot known for homestyle American breakfasts, homemade pies, and cozy comfort food.
5The Old German DeliTop pick·German·Suits lunch·$A deli popular for hearty sandwiches like Reubens and sausage platters, plus homemade soups in a casual setting.
6Mountain MunchiesTop pick·Sandwich·Suits breakfast, lunch·$A small local spot known for dependable take‑out breakfasts, sandwiches and comfort food at solid prices.
7572 Social Kitchen & LoungeTop pick·Suits lunch, dinner·$$A lively American bar & lounge with a large outdoor patio, live music, and popular items like poke bowls and calamari.
8Sweet Basil BistroTop pick·Italian·Suits dinner·$$$An Italian‑contemporary bistro offering fine‑dining feel in the Village, known for its great ambiance and upscale meals.
9Peppercorn GrilleTop pick·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$An upscale Village favorite for intimate dinners or refined mountain lunches, serving steaks and seafood with lake‑view ambiance.
10Himalayan RestaurantTop pick·Nepalese, Indian·Suits lunch, dinner·$$A Village spot serving authentic Indian and Nepalese dishes with a vast menu, including vegetarian and vegan options and imported beers.
11Gaby's Latin FlavorsTop pick·Bolivian, Mexican·Suits lunch, dinner·$$A well‑regarded Latin‑flavored eatery off the Village known for authentic Mexican/Latin dishes and praised by locals.
12Big Bear Lake Brewing CompanySuits lunch, dinner·$$$This brewery offers a selection of house-made craft beers paired with tasty pub grub.
13Sonora CantinaSuits dinner, late-night·$$$Sonora Cantina offers an extensive selection of flavorful Mexican dishes and delicious margaritas.
14Café CrêpCrepe·Suits breakfast, brunch·$$Café Crêp specializes in sweet and savory crêpes, made to order with high-quality ingredients.
15Slopeside PubSuits dinner, late-night·$$$Located near the slopes, this pub is perfect for apres-ski drinks and hearty comfort food.
16Moonridge Coffee CompanyAmerican, Breakfast, Coffee shop·Suits breakfast, brunch, late-night·$$This cozy café offers a warm atmosphere and excellent locally roasted coffee.
17Big Bear Moose LodgeSuits breakfast, lunch, dinner·$$This rustic lodge offers hearty meals in a charming mountain setting, popular for its breakfast and comfort food.
18OJ's Donut HouseSuits breakfast, brunch·$A beloved local cafe specializing in fresh donuts and coffee, OJ's Donut House is a must-visit for breakfast.
19Cocina de MexicoMexican·Suits lunch, dinner·$$Cocina de Mexico is celebrated for its authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.
20The Pines Tavern On The LakePizza, Sandwich, Steak house·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$This lakeside tavern offers a relaxed atmosphere with stunning views.
21Masala CraftIndian·Suits lunch, dinner·$$Masala Craft features an array of delicious Indian dishes, known for their authentic flavors and spices.
22The Pines LakefrontSuits dinner·$$$The Pines Lakefront offers stunning views paired with a menu featuring seasonal and local specialties.
23Azteca Grill Mexican Restaurant & CantinaMexican·Suits lunch, dinner·$$This vibrant cantina is renowned for its authentic Mexican dishes and lively atmosphere.
24El MexicanoMexican·Suits lunch, dinner·$$El Mexicano features a diverse menu of authentic Mexican dishes, well renowned for its vibrant flavors and festive atmosphere.
25North Shore CafeAmerican·Suits breakfast, brunch·$$North Shore Cafe offers hearty breakfast and lunch options with a local twist.
Cuisine from OpenStreetMap. "Suits" and price bands are our AI's estimates.
Places to stay in Big Bear Lake
25 of the 61 we list here
Written by our AI
Type of stay from OpenStreetMap. "Good for" and price bands are our AI's estimates.
Each place opens our booking partner, where you can check prices and book. We may earn a commission if you book.
The weather you'd get
Typical daily high and low, and the share of days with rain, from historical records (2011-2025). Average weather for Big Bear Lake, not a forecast.
January high 50°
low 32°
rain on 19%
February high 50°
low 32°
rain on 22%
March high 52°
low 33°
rain on 25%
April high 59°
low 39°
rain on 14%
May high 65°
low 45°
rain on 18%
June high 77°
low 56°
rain on 8%
July high 81°
low 62°
rain on 24%
August high 80°
low 61°
rain on 20%
September high 75°
low 56°
rain on 16%
October high 68°
low 47°
rain on 9%
November high 58°
low 39°
rain on 11%
December high 51°
low 34°
rain on 17%
Warmest month: July, highs around 81°F, 27°C. Wettest: March, rain on about 25% of days. Driest: June.
Sightseeing weather. The mildest, driest and calmest months for sightseeing are May, June, August, September and October. That is weather only. It says nothing about ski seasons, beach days or festivals, which is often why people go.
From Wikipedia
Big Bear Lake is a city in San Bernardino County, California, United States, located in the San Bernardino Mountains along the south shore of Big Bear Lake, and surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest. The city is about 25 miles (40 km) northeast of the city of San Bernardino, and immediately west of the unincorporated town of Big Bear City. The population was approximately 5,046 at the 2020 census.
Text: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Sources and credits
Names, place details, opening times and addresses © OpenStreetMap contributors, available under the Open Database Licence.
Text: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Weather: Open-Meteo historical weather data.
Airports: OurAirports, public domain.
Photo: BBV Summer 2019 -33 by BigBearCabins, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Descriptions, themes and estimates are written by Journey Builder's AI.