Escape to Big Bear Lake: Discover the Ultimate Girls’ Weekend Getaway from Los Angeles
If you envision Big Bear Lake solely as a winter wonderland for skiing, you’re overlooking a hidden gem just a short two-hour journey from Los Angeles! Nestled in the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains, this destination transforms into a vibrant summer retreat, perfect for a delightful weekend with friends. During my visit in early September—a time when Los Angeles often sizzles with heat—Big Bear offered a refreshing change. With its temperate climate and the peaceful charm of its lakeside setting, it’s no wonder that USA Today readers recently crowned it the top lake in the United States.
Big Bear Lake is not just a picturesque retreat; it’s a small community situated along the shores of a lake teeming with fish. The area boasts a variety of quaint boutiques, inviting gift shops, and a range of delightful dining options that establish its commercial charm. It is a place that holds great significance for the indigenous Serrano people, who continue to share their rich cultural heritage. You’ll find evidence of their ongoing efforts in the revitalization of their language and traditional practices, such as singing and basket weaving.
Each year, Big Bear also hosts a vibrant three-day Pow Wow—a colorful celebration of Native American music and dance that honors age-old traditions alongside its 5,000 residents (as of 2020). Whether you’re a local or perhaps just visiting Los Angeles and looking for an alternative to the typical trips to places like Santa Barbara or Palm Springs, I have crafted the perfect itinerary for making the most out of 48 hours in this mountainous paradise.
Activities You Can’t Miss:
To maximize your experience in Big Bear, it’s wise to plan for a late check-in around 4 PM at most cabins or hotels. Instead of following the routine, consider heading to the mountains early! Find a convenient street parking spot and treat yourself to a secluded beach cove where you can unfurl your towel, take a refreshing dip, and begin your relaxation journey.
As you drive around the northern part of the lake, you’ll uncover hidden gems. The shores vary between sandy stretches and pebbly beaches, but the inviting waters are just right for swimming, floating, or simply dipping your toes.
For a truly unique experience, set out on the lake! Holloway Marina provides rental options for various pontoon boats, available for two hours or even the entire day. This is undoubtedly one of the best ways to spend your time in Big Bear. Even if you’re new to boating, these vessels are user-friendly and can accommodate groups ranging from six to twelve people. The added touch of Bluetooth connectivity means you can enjoy your curated lake trip playlist while you soak up the stunning scenery.
While nestled in the mountains, a multitude of hiking trails await exploration. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or are looking for more adventurous hikes that require proper gear, there’s something for every fitness level.
Did you know that Big Bear Lake boasts a theme park? It’s true! The Alpine Slide offers a thrilling bobsled experience unique to Southern California, featuring a scenic chairlift ascent with breathtaking views of the lake. You get to control your speed, making it an exhilarating option for everyone. Alternatively, you can try the Mineshaft Coaster, a two-seater ride where you dictate the pace down the mile-long track, along with go-karting, mini-golfing, and a water slide to cool off during summer.
Don’t overlook the importance of indulging in some spa time! A getaway is incomplete without treating yourself to at least one restorative massage. However, keep in mind that power outages and thunderstorms can occur at an altitude of 7,000 feet in the mountains. On the morning of my departure, the city experienced a blackout, yet my booked hot stone massage at Indigo Spa—newly established in Big Bear—was unwavering. The dedicated therapist, Chelsea, insisted we proceed, lighting battery-operated candles and playing soothing music from my phone. Those 90 minutes turned out to be the highlight of my year!
Shopping Extravaganza:
No girls’ trip is truly complete without a leisurely stroll through the shopping district. Village Drive features an array of delightful independent boutiques. One personal favorite is O Koo Ran, offering a charming blend of trendy fashion and accessories from up-and-coming brands. I still regret not snagging an adorable cardigan embellished with cowboys and cowgirls dancing!
Among other must-visit spots are the Leather Depot and the Village Faire—a hidden treasure trove where you can find an assortment of vendors, including "Bearly Used Books," which humorously carries gently used literature, vintage signs, second-hand records, and charming embroidered bags.
Delightful Dining and Libations:
Your culinary adventures in Big Bear Lake will be plentiful, offering a variety of dining experiences. For a casual Italian meal, head to De La Nonnas, located in the lovely Hotel Marina Riviera. The lakeside view presents a fantastic backdrop for enjoying pizza, flavorful wines, and delightful cocktails as the sun sets.
Captain's Anchorage, an establishment since 1947, is just a short drive from the village and is perfect for a hearty dinner with friends over shared glasses of wine. This cozy spot feels like a charming British pub, complete with the unexpectedly delightful Pimms liqueur and excellent fish and chips.
If you’re in the mood for a more relaxed vibe, check out Barrel 33, a casual wine bar featuring California wines alongside its neighbor, Whiskey Daves—a bustling sports bar famous for live music, karaoke, and pool tables.
And let’s not forget the necessity of indulging in random stops for cocktails or ice cream; 572 Social is an excellent pitstop boasting live music and happy hour specials, while North Pole Fudge and Ice Cream Co promises you the largest scoops of ice cream you could ever dream of!
Where to Stay:
Big Bear offers a wide array of lodging options tailored to your preferences, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. The town is dotted with cabins, and Big Bear Cabins dot com simplifies finding accommodations that suit your needs—whether it’s a luxurious cabin with breathtaking lake views for a grand gathering or a cozy, rustic space that immerses you in a mountain ambiance.
I highly recommend selecting a cabin equipped with a hot tub. Regardless of the weather, enjoying a soak with a refreshing drink in hand is the ideal way to unwind after a day filled with driving, hiking, and exploration.
As a final tip, while most cabins enforce a 4 PM check-in, arriving earlier allows you to take advantage of those serene beach coves and kickstart your relaxation directly upon arrival.
How to Get There:
Reaching Big Bear Lake from Los Angeles is a straightforward two-hour drive. There are three picturesque routes available, with the most scenic being through Highway 330 to Running Springs and then Highway 18. However, just a friendly warning—the winding roads aren't the best for those prone to motion sickness! Big Bear is also Accessible via a local airport, allowing options to fly into Los Angeles Airport and rent a car, or you could opt for Ontario International Airport, which is the closest to Big Bear.
