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Tucked into a lush San Bernardino Mountains valley and named for its thriving grizzly bear population, the city that serves as the epicenter of our list was once California’s largest Gold Rush boomtown. The miners may have moved on, but heart-pounding recreation and glorious scenery in every season have made Big Bear Lake one of Southern California’s top vacation destinations. For our list of Top Big Bear Vacations, we set out on a quest for unique Big Bear Lake lodging experiences that not only highlight this breathtaking town; they actually manage to enhance it! From full-service marina resorts set on Big Bear Lake’s shores to adults-only themed cabins in the San Bernardino forests, we’ve uncovered Big Bear’s best on our list of Top Big Bear Vacations!
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Big Bear Vacations

Big Bear Lake, California

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+1 (888) 976 - 2995
Big Bear Vacations' more than 300 homes and cabins range from rustic and simple to luxuriously grand. Peruse their online catalog and you'll undoubtedly find your perfect match!You really can't go wrong when staying... read more

Big Bear Vacations' more than 300 homes and cabins range from rustic and simple to luxuriously grand. Peruse their online catalog and you'll undoubtedly find your perfect match!

You really can't go wrong when staying in the Big Bear region. But you can go RIGHT, and Big Bear Vacation is the most right resort in the area. Their incredibly hospitable team of professionals well be happy to assist you in every way possible, and will ensure your time is spent enjoying the beautiful mountain setting. There's also a great selection of locations, amenities, decor and pricing to the accommodations, so when you aren't exploring the surrounding 600,000 acres of pristine San Bernardino National Forest you'll be staying in plentiful comfort!

Address

41693 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Related activities

Nearby there's hundreds of miles of trails and 23 miles of lake shoreline.

Related Onsite Offerings

Enjoy the 3,000 acres of crystal clear Lake Surface!

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Embers Lodge

Big Bear Lake, California

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+1 (909) 878 - 0601
Starting out as a go to destination for movie stars and film crews back in the 1930’s, Embers Lodge has evolved to one of the top lodging destinations in the Big Bear Lake area.With a historic guest list that has... read more

Starting out as a go to destination for movie stars and film crews back in the 1930’s, Embers Lodge has evolved to one of the top lodging destinations in the Big Bear Lake area.

With a historic guest list that has includes the likes of Roy Rogers and Andy Devine, Embers Lodge has been providing high quality accommodations and service for over 80 years. Embers Lodge is located only one mile from Big Bear Lake, in the breathtaking wilderness that the area is famous for. Embers Lodge offers a spectrum of lodging options that can accommodate groups up to eight people per unit. You can choose from cozy single rooms or if you're in need of more space, their beautiful cabins are a great option. Each of their cabins are well maintained, fully furnished and designed with rustic elegance in mind. Embers Lodge wants you to feel right at home during your stay. They accomplish this with In-room amenities like fireplaces to keep warm during the cooler months, flat screen TV to keep current on shows and news, comfortable beds for a easy night's sleep and more. Embers Lodge features a public barbecue area that is perfect for a cookout and meeting fellow travelers staying at the lodge. The Big Bear Lake area is home to a multitude of year round outdoor activities. During the summer months you can enjoy fishing, photography, hiking, boating, sightseeing and so much more. The winter season is filled with skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Come and experience the unique lodging that attracted Hollywood royalty at the Embers Lodge!

Address

Embers Lodge 40229 Big Bear Boulevard Big Bear Lake, California 92315

Related activities

If you're a fan of beer and breweries, the Big Bear Mountain Brewery is located across the street from Embers Lodge. You have the opportunity to sample some of their tasty brews and check out their facilities.

Fun facts

Big Bear Lake has a population of over 17,000 people and it sits at an elevation of 6,743 feet.

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Edgewater Resort

Big Bear Lake, California

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+1 (909) 866 - 3105
We could spend all day heaping praise upon our No. 6 pick, but we think it’d be so much simpler to let its name do the talking. We know what you’re really after on your Big Bear vacation and true to its name,... read more

We could spend all day heaping praise upon our No. 6 pick, but we think it’d be so much simpler to let its name do the talking. We know what you’re really after on your Big Bear vacation and true to its name, Edgewater Resort puts you right on its shores. Even your boat stays for free!

Sure, Edgewater Resort’s lakefront suites offer the convenience of kitchenettes, the cozy ambiance of gas log stoves and expansive windows to take in the view. But we bet it won’t be long before Big Bear Lake’s deep blue waters lure you from these spacious accommodations and into its refreshing depths. Those who prefer less waterlogged adventures can skim the water on a pair of skis, cruise the shoreline in a canoe or race the wind atop a WaveRunner. Every suite at Edgewater Resort includes a private deck overlooking Big Bear Lake, a perfect place for watching the sun set over these California waters. And on the very edge of the horizon, we spotted something that’s sure to stir your littlest land-lovers into a frenzied state. Big Bear’s pirate ship – an authentic replica of a Spanish galleon – hints of whirlwind adventures and buried treasures, but in reality offers something better: narrated tours of Big Bear Lake!

Entrance fees

Big Bear group events or reunions are always welcome at the Edgewater, where a range of spacious rooms and suites can accommodate an intimate party or family function of up to 50 guests.

Related activities

Edgewater Resort is only one block from Big Bear Village, where you can peruse the unique shops and boutiques or sit down and savor some of Southern California’s finest dining experiences.

Related Onsite Offerings

Though not part of the Edgewater grounds, the adjacent Water’s Edge lakefront home offers three bedrooms, two baths and a one-bedroom apartment, both available through the Edgewater.

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View call direct
+1 (800) 866 - 3121
Our No. 7 spot is known for its spectacular Big Bear weekend getaways, but we have a hard time believing anyone would settle for so little time in such an unsurpassed California destination. So turn that two-day... read more

Our No. 7 spot is known for its spectacular Big Bear weekend getaways, but we have a hard time believing anyone would settle for so little time in such an unsurpassed California destination. So turn that two-day trip into a week-long Big Bear vacation at Northwoods Resort – we promise you won’t be disappointed!

Imagine your Big Bear vacation, your way. An endless variety of Northwoods Resort amenities makes your dream Big Bear Lake vacation come to life before your very eyes! As if Stillwells Restaurant’s juicy prime steaks weren’t enough to tempt your tastebuds, this gourmet Big Bear eatery also serves up the freshest seafood in the valley. The restaurant’s flaky Atlantic salmon filets are best followed with an aquatic venture of another kind. No, not the shrimp cocktail – we’re talking about a refreshing dip in Big Bear’s only year-round heated outdoor pool and spa! You’ll be treated to the best of both worlds in your Northwoods Resort guestroom. Inside these Adirondacks-inspired accommodations, you’ll find all the rustic touches you’d expect from a Big Bear cabin, without the six-legged critters that all too often come with it! No wriggling bugs here, just modern conveniences like wireless Internet paired with creature comforts like wet bars and spa-like tubs.

Highlights

Tradition not your thing? A California mountain wedding ceremony like no other awaits you in Northwoods Resort’s lovely poolside courtyard.

Fun facts

Known first by the Serrano Indian name Yuhaviat, Big Bear Lake, California received its title from Benjamin Davis Wilson, an esteemed California statesman.

Related Onsite Offerings

In-room movies, Nintendo games and cribs make Northwoods Resort perfectly suited to Big Bear family vacations.

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Robinhood Resorts

Big Bear Lake, California

Set in the heart of Big Bear Village, our No. 8 spot earned itself a place in hearts of another sort – ours! In reality there wasn’t any theft involved, but in keeping with the tradition of its namesake – best... read more

Set in the heart of Big Bear Village, our No. 8 spot earned itself a place in hearts of another sort – ours! In reality there wasn’t any theft involved, but in keeping with the tradition of its namesake – best known for robbing the rich to feed the poor – we’ll say that Robinhood Resorts ran away with our hearts on our Big Bear vacation!

Our No. 8 pick is so much more than a resort; it’s a trio of fanciful Big Bear accommodations – the Robinhood Inn, the Sherwood Forest and the Wishing Well – that will transport you to the fairytale forests that first made this beloved hero famous. We can’t promise you any merry men, but we can give you our solemn pledge that you’re in for something special on your Big Bear vacation. Speaking of special, we think it’s high time you took that special someone on a romantic California getaway to Robinhood Resorts! Sherwood Forest’s deluxe spa rooms feature wood-burning fireplaces, en-suite Jacuzzis and inspiring views of Big Bear Lake that will tempt even the fairest of maidens. And just in case, the fine California cuisine – including scrumptious seafood and pasta dishes – served up at Nottinghams Restaurant ought to strike a few sparks in your loved one’s heart.

Highlights

Robinhood Resorts’ lightly-themed event spaces, including Friar Tuck’s Tavern and Little John’s Pub, add a playful twist to Big Bear meetings and corporate events.

Getting there

From Los Angeles and Orange Counties, follow I-10 East to the Running Springs/Hwy. 30 exit in Redlands. Follow Hwy. 30 to Hwy. 330 and exit onto Hwy. 18. Follow Hwy. 18 to the Robinhood Resorts entrance.

Related Onsite Offerings

In addition to Big Bear guestrooms and suites, Robinhood Resorts offers charming chalets and Big Bear Lake homes with plenty of space for Southern California group vacations.

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Inn at Fawnskin

Fawnskin, California

Some might turn up their noses at our No. 9 spot’s small proportions, particularly when comparing it to the grand-scale lodges that dot Big Bear Lake’s shores. But if you ask our opinion, we’d tell you that... read more

Some might turn up their noses at our No. 9 spot’s small proportions, particularly when comparing it to the grand-scale lodges that dot Big Bear Lake’s shores. But if you ask our opinion, we’d tell you that the Inn at Fawnskin – like its hoofed counterpart – has certainly grown into its spots, even if there are only five of them!

Surrounded by the towering pines of the San Bernardino Mountains and fronting Big Bear Lake’s north shore, the Inn at Fawnskin is equal parts mountain solitude and lakefront adventure on your Southern California vacation. With such a warm, cozy ambiance offered in each of its suites, the innkeepers knew it would take something special to tempt you from your peaceful slumber. That’s why the inn serves a scrumptious gourmet breakfast each morning! Spring in Big Bear is a well-kept secret, so skip the crowds and plan your Big Bear vacation around this spectacular season, when tulips, daffodils and lilacs – and a hint of romance – are all in full bloom. And with Southern California temperatures hovering around a breezy 65 degrees, we think it’s the perfect time to hole up with your sweetie in front of the Garden Suite’s fireplace or in the jetted tub for two!

Highlights

Rooms in the Inn at Fawnskin include fireplaces, sitting areas, televisions, luxurious microfiber spa robes, balconies and views of Big Bear Lake.

Getting there

From the 10 Freeway, exit at Hwy. 210 to 330. Stay on Hwy. 210 for three miles and exit at the Mountain Resorts off-ramp. Take Hwy. 330/18 to Big Bear Lake and follow it to the dam. The Inn at Fawnskin will be on your left as you approach the corner of North Shore Drive and Canyon Road. From the High Desert area, take Hwy. 18 and stay on North Shore Drive. Follow the signs to Fawnskin and continue past Stanfield Cutoff and into the inn’s entrance.

Fun facts

At a mile and a quarter above most of Southern California, Big Bear's forests, mountains, lake and weather make for ideal three-day fall getaways to the Inn at Fawnskin.

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Black Forest Lodge

Big Bear Lake, California

Before encountering our No. 10 spot, our closest association with the Black Forest – a wooded mountain range in southwestern Germany – was a delightful taste of the world-famous chocolate, cherry and cream cake... read more

Before encountering our No. 10 spot, our closest association with the Black Forest – a wooded mountain range in southwestern Germany – was a delightful taste of the world-famous chocolate, cherry and cream cake that shares its name.

While the Black Forest Lodge obviously isn’t edible, we think you’ll find plenty to love about this Bavarian lodge on your Big Bear vacation. For centuries, residents of Germany’s Black Forest region made a name for themselves as talented artisans, known around the world for their exceptional craftsmanship and intricately-carved cuckoo clocks. Today, you can get a taste of this Bavarian tradition without ever leaving the states. Each of Black Forest Lodge’s nostalgic cabins boast traditional stone and cedar shake exteriors, shuttered windows and hand-painted trim. Steeped in German traditions, it’s no coincidence that Black Forest Lodge’s rustic cabins are reminiscent of cozy ski chalets. Come winter, a flurry of snow blankets this Big Bear lodge and transforms it into a Bavarian village of folklore proportions. With in-cabin fireplaces and two-person spa tubs, we think these Big Bear cabins are a welcoming retreat after a full day of skiing on Big Bear Mountain Resorts’ slopes. And with Black Forest Lodge’s convenient ski packages, it’s never been easier to enjoy them!

Highlights

Accomplished artist Valentina Ratshenko-Lamdin, whose work is featured in galleries, museums and private collections throughout the world, holds painting workshops at the Black Forest Lodge.

Related activities

Indulge in some much-needed pampering after hitting the Big Bear Mountain slopes. Black Forest Lodge’s onsite salon, Enchanted Forest Hair Designs, offers tanning, nails, hair and massage services.

Related Onsite Offerings

Black Forest Lodge also offers a selection of private Big Bear homes accommodating from two to ten people.

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Castle Wood Cottages

Big Bear Lake, California

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+1 (909) 866 - 2720
What do a museum and our No. 11 pick have in common? They both showcase artifacts born from ancient civilizations, global cultures and the occasional mythical character. While Castle Wood Cottages’ themed rooms... read more

What do a museum and our No. 11 pick have in common? They both showcase artifacts born from ancient civilizations, global cultures and the occasional mythical character. While Castle Wood Cottages’ themed rooms may be reproductions, the romantic ambiance found inside each is assuredly authentic!

Spanish tiles, pirate ship murals and hidden treasure may be prominently featured in the Captain’s Quarter’s, but we can promise one thing won’t stay buried for long: the romance on your Big Bear Lake vacation! But this amorous ambiance isn’t solely limited to Castle Wood’s pirate-themed suite; each of these Southern California cabins comes with a spellbinding theme, from the Anthony and Cleopatra suite dripping with gold to the functional moat and regal furnishings of the Castle Garden. We could tell you about Castle Wood Cottages’ proximity to Big Bear’s village, slopes and marinas, but why waste valuable space describing sights and attractions you’ll likely never see? With everything required of your romantic Big Bear getaway – bubbling Jacuzzi tubs, canopy beds and the warm glow of your fireplace hearth – found right inside your Castle Wood cottage, we don’t see any compelling reason to forsake these “suite” accommodations!

Highlights

With rates starting at an astonishingly low $75, you don’t have to break the bank to have a truly romantic Big Bear vacation at Castle Wood Cottages!

Related activities

All Castle Wood Cottages guests are invited to use the Timberline Lodge’s heated swimming pool during their stay.

Related Onsite Offerings

Castle Wood Cottages can arrange for gift baskets, fresh flowers, candles, chocolate-dipped strawberries and more to make your Big Bear Lake getaway truly spectacular!

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Big Bear Cool Cabins

Big Bear Lake, California

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+1 (800) 550 - 8779
When is comes to luxurious accommodations in the Big Bear Lake area, few other can compare to the selection of Big Bear Cool Cabins.Nestled in the picture perfect mountains of Southern California, Big Bear Cool... read more

When is comes to luxurious accommodations in the Big Bear Lake area, few other can compare to the selection of Big Bear Cool Cabins.

Nestled in the picture perfect mountains of Southern California, Big Bear Cool Cabins has the ideal lodging for you, no matter the reason for visiting the area. For almost two decades Big Bear Cool Cabins has been providing beautiful lodging options and a high level of customer service. The company began with a modest three rental homes and now the company has expanded to an impressive 380 rentals in the Big Bear Lake area. Regardless of which rental you choose, you’ll find it to be fully furnished, beautiful decorated and expertly maintained. They have rentals great for couples all the way up to homes that can sleep groups of over 20 with ease. Each of the rentals are unique and feature a different set of amenities including wood burning fireplaces for the chilly evenings, plush beds and linens to maximize your rest and comfort, entertainment centers, full kitchens with everything you need to prepare meals, patios with unforgettable vistas of the local wilderness and the list goes on. When you're ready to venture out from the comfortable confines of your rental the Big Bear Lake community has much to offer. During the winter months you’ll find ample opportunities to downhill ski, cross country ski, snowboard, snowmobile and more. The warmer months showcase the region's vibrant and lush landscape. The activities during the warm months are fishing, hiking, golfing, boating and horseback rides, to only scratch the surface. Make your next Southern California mountain vacation one you’ll never forget and make your reservation with Big Bear Cool Cabins today!

Address

Big Bear Cool Cabins 40375 Big Bear Boulevard Big Bear Lake, California 92315

Fun facts

Big Bear Lake is a man made lake that was constructed back in 1885.

Related Onsite Offerings

Big Bear Cool Cabins offer different deals and specials throughout the year. Get in touch with their friendly and experienced staff today to see which deals apply to you.

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10

Honey Bear Lodge

Big Bear Lake, California

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+1 (909) 866 - 7825
With the deep blue waters of Big Bear Lake stealing most of the spotlight, it’s easy to forget that Southern California’s quintessential mountain town was first famous for its Gold Rush roots. Fortunately, our... read more

With the deep blue waters of Big Bear Lake stealing most of the spotlight, it’s easy to forget that Southern California’s quintessential mountain town was first famous for its Gold Rush roots. Fortunately, our No. 4 spot offers a look back into this Southern California city’s history on your Big Bear vacation!

Honey Bear Lodge has cornered the market on Big Bear lodge rooms, cabins and private homes that let you live the authentic mountain lifestyle on your California vacation. Cozy rooms feature rustic touches like plaid bedspreads and wood-burning fireplaces accented with stone mantles. And a select few of these Big Bear accommodations even include en-suite spas, an inspired end to any evening, especially when paired with some of the most spectacular mountain views in all of Southern California. But it was Honey Bear Lodge’s historic tours – a must for those looking to experience the spirited essence of this mountain town – that earned it our vote for most authentic Big Bear mountain getaway. At Honey Bear Lodge, stepping back in time is as easy as stepping up into a full-size stagecoach, courtesy of Bear Valley Stage Lines. For a true sampling of Big Bear’s storied past, we suggest the Big Bear Discovery Center, an education-based outpost in the heart of the valley.

Related activities

Big Bear skiing and snowboarding, boating, jet skiing, mountain biking, horseback riding and more can all be enjoyed just minutes from Honey Bear Lodge.

Getting there

From the Los Angeles and Orange County areas, follow I-10 East to the city of Redlands. Take Route 30 North four miles to Highland. Follow Route 330 North to Running Springs. Turn onto Rte. 18 and follow the signs to Big Bear Lake. At Big Bear Dam, turn right to stay on Rte. 18 and proceed to the city of Big Bear Lake. Cross over the bridge and continue on Rte. 18. When you reach the Village of Big Bear Lake, continue straight into the village and past the stop sign at Pine Knot. After two blocks, the road will end at the entrance to Honey Bear Lodge.

Fun facts

Honey Bear Lodge encourages you to stay and play in Big Bear just a little longer by offering discounts on multiple night stays!

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11

Escape for All Seasons

Big Bear Lake, California

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+1 (909) 866 - 7504
Conveniently located within two hours of Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange County, Big Bear Lake is the quintessential getaway locale for city folk looking for an escape.Did someone say escape? Escape for All... read more

Conveniently located within two hours of Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange County, Big Bear Lake is the quintessential getaway locale for city folk looking for an escape.

Did someone say escape? Escape for All Seasons vacation rentals feature a fleet of luxurious cabins right at the base of Snow Summit Ski Resort and less than a mile from beautiful Big Bear Lake. This year-round destination provides you with easy access to endless activities. At the lake you can soak up the sun from the beach, dive in for a refreshing swim, or plan an afternoon of fishing and wake-boarding. The surrounding San Bernardino National Forest is also a prime location for horseback riding. At the end of the day, unwind in front of your own private cozy fireplace. The cabins are fully equipped with kitchens, spacious living areas, flat screen televisions, outdoor Jacuzzi tubs and game rooms!

Address

41935 Switzerland Drive, Big Bear Lake, California 92315

Mountain range

Escape for All Seasons puts you right at the base of Snow Summit Ski Resort. The resort features some of the best downhill skiing and snowboarding around and it's within walking distance of your cabin! Escape's premiere location really takes all the stress out of planning an unforgettable skiing vacation!

Highlights

Escape for All Seasons is just that--an escape for any season. Fishing, hunting, skiing, golf, boating, you name it--Escape's incredible central location eases the stress of planning a family or group vacation.

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Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins

Lake Arrowhead, California

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+1 (800) 429 - 7463
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and come enjoy the serenity of the Lake Arrowhead mountains, streams, and whispering pines at Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins in Twin Peaks, California.Each unique cabin at... read more

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and come enjoy the serenity of the Lake Arrowhead mountains, streams, and whispering pines at Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins in Twin Peaks, California.

Each unique cabin at Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins is spread out over six acres of vast forest with streams and three ponds. At Pine Rose, you can get the best parts of a vacation rental and a hotel all in one place. All cabins are like private homes and include fully-equipped kitchens, but they also have a team ready to welcome you and help you with anything you need. Pine Rose can accommodate any size group, with cabins ranging from studios to seven bedrooms. Each of their 20 cabins has a different theme and amenities. Every cabin has a wood burning fireplace, a barbeque, and a private outdoor space for you and your family to relax in. Don’t worry about leaving your furry friend at home, some cabins are pet-friendly! You and your travel companions will never run out of things to do in Twin Peaks. Walk through the Giant Sequoia and Dogwood groves at Heaps Peak Arboretum, hop from antique shop to antique shop in the Lake Arrowhead Mountain Communities, or catch some dinner on Lake Gregory. Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins is a perfect place to connect with nature and relax with your loved ones.

Address

25994 CA-189 Lake Arrowhead Communities, Twin Peaks, CA 92391

Highlights

Make sure to check out the local options for dining while you visit the mountain region. Try a juicy stake at RB's Steakhouse & Bar, Sunday brunch with unlimited champagne at The Tutor House, or Stone Creek Bistro for their ever-changing menu.

Related activities

There is much to do in the area around Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins. Music lovers should check out the Lake Arrowhead Village Free Summer Concert Series, wine and beer enthusiasts should check out the wine and beer tastings in the area, and history buffs should check out the Lake Arrowhead Queen for a narrated boat tour of historical Lake Arrowhead.

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