When most people think of Big Bear Lake, they immediately think of the immense winter snowfall, and the fantastic skiing that blankets the entire area. Although these are wonderful qualities of an area set apart from the hustle and bustle of modern day life, these are not the only bonuses. In fact, many travelers have found that the robust spectrum of colors that populate the area during the summer months offer an equal balance to the fun-packed slopes of the winter-time. Add to that the fact that Big Bear Lake has a mild summer climate and minimal summer population and you have the perfect combination for a secret weekend getaway!
As a potential Big Bear Lake guest, your first destination should be the condo, cabin, or lake-front villa where you can drop off your bags and throw on your swimsuit! Haven't decided on your lodging, yet? You'll find that many local residents rent their cabins out during summer months and offer tremendous deals. We often-times travel with friends and rent larger cabins with fantastic communal living spaces for a fraction of the cost that you would spend at larger resort hotels.
Once you are along the lake, there are a plethora of fantastic water sports that you can partake in, even if you have never even seen a lake before. You can go the traditional route and have a summer BBQ along the beach, or even break out the old fishing pole for some nostalgic casting along the shore. Our personal favorite is cruising over to the helpful people at the Big Bear Marina to rent anything and everything under the sun pertaining to water sports. At any given time they have pontoon boats, jet skis, water ski boats, kayaks, and even paddle boats available to rent at very reasonable rates. The paddle boats are great for kids and provide a fantastic workout for all of those calories that you will be taking in at the local eateries. Speaking of local eats...
The dining scene at Big Bear Lake is nothing short of spectacular. The eclectic mix contains everything from traditional family favorites like IHOP and Sizzler, to some of the finest dining you will find anywhere in the area. When with the kids, a favorite stop is always Boo Bear's Den Restaurant. The friendly folks there cater to families, and offer everything under the sun for little kids and big kids alike. If you happen to venture upon the lake without any little ones in tow, the best in adult dining can be found at The Mandoline Bistro. Be sure to get there early on the weekends as the Loft Bar fills up quickly. Stop in for a drink and pass the time listening to the sweetest tunes you are going to find across the lake. Once you've enjoyed the ambiance, venture downstairs for some of the best Italian-infused seafood in the region.
Once you have taken in the lake and the town (definitely embrace the shopping that this quaint town has to offer!) check out the local mountains for a fantastic hike. There are paths to suit all sizes from toddler to senior, and the color and spectacle of the area is simply marvelous. You can spend an hour, or an entire day, and best of all, most of the hikes are less than twenty minutes from the lake. Be sure to bring your suntan lotion, but leave the ice packs and fans at home as the temperature here is rarely going to come close to that of its Angeleno neighbors.
The best part about Big Bear Lake is that no matter how many times you stay there, there is always something new on the horizon. That's why Big Bear Lake is the perfect place to stay one night, one weekend, or even the whole summer. Get away from "real life" for a bit and see what the "real world" has to offer you, you may never come back!
This tidbit of real Big Bear Lake travel advice was brought to you by Greg Hurst.