Summer Vacation to Big Bear, California
If you’re craving a summer escape that blends mountain charm with endless outdoor adventures, look no further than Big Bear, California. Nestled amidst the San Bernardino Mountains, this alpine gem offers a refreshing retreat from the scorching California heat. Read below for our guide to planning an exciting Big Bear summer vacation.
Craft Your Dream Big Bear Summer Courtesy of Our Ultimate Vacation Guide
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking challenging Californian trails or a family yearning for lakeside fun, Big Bear has something for everyone. With this in mind, you can dive into our ultimate guide and unlock the secrets to crafting an unforgettable summer vacation in Big Bear.
First things first, before embarking on the summer fun you should have your Big Bear accommodation sorted. Our property portfolio in Big Bear boasts a range of options to suit every style and budget. From cozy cabins nestled amongst the pines to luxurious lakefront lodges, you’ll find the perfect home base to unwind after a day of adventure. Now, let’s get to the heart of your Big Bear escape, the summer activities available.
For the thrill-seekers, Big Bear Lake is your playground. For this reason, you can rent a pontoon boat and cruise across the crystal-clear water, soaking in the panoramic mountain views. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can tow a wakeboard or water skis for an adrenaline rush or test your balance on a stand-up paddleboard.
If exploring the land is more your speed, Big Bear boasts a network of hiking and biking trails catering to all experience levels. The iconic Castle Rock Trail 1W03 offers breathtaking vistas from the summit, while the family-friendly Woodland Loop Trail IE23 meanders through a scenic forest. You can also rent mountain bikes and conquer single-track routes or take a leisurely cruise along the paved paths surrounding Big Bear lake.
Those craving a unique perspective can embark on a thrilling zipline tour soaring through the treetops courtesy of Big Bear’s Action Zipline Tours. Get ready to feel the wind in your hair as you navigate across suspension bridges and platforms, taking in the breathtaking San Bernardino Mountain scenery and Big Bear landscape, including the lake, from a whole new angle.
For a dose of history and local charm, you can head to The Village, which is Big Bear’s hub for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. While you’re in this part of Big Bear, you can explore the quaint shops overflowing with souvenirs and locally crafted treasures.
And since The Village at Big Bear is home to numerous eateries, you can grab a scoop of homemade ice cream and people-watch on a sunny afternoon. If you’re in the mood for a delicious meal, you can explore the diverse range of Big Bear restaurants that are available at The Village, from casual cafes to upscale dining experiences featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients.
No summer vacation in Big Bear or any part of California, for that matter, is complete without connecting with nature. Big Bear Alpine Zoo is a delightful haven for animal lovers. With this in mind, prepare to get up close to North American wildlife, including majestic bald eagles, playful otters, and curious black bears at a safe distance, of course.
After a day of adventure exploring Big Bear, you can unwind with a scenic gondola ride. To do so, you can ascend to the top of Snow Summit for stunning panoramic views and a relaxing experience. In the evening, you can cozy up by a crackling fireplace or roast marshmallows under a canopy of stars courtesy of Big Bear’s night sky.
Like most travel destinations in California, Big Bear truly offers something for everyone. Therefore, you can pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience an unforgettable summer escape in this idyllic California mountain paradise.
Big Bear’s Summer Events to Spruce Up Your Vacation
Big Bear transforms into a vibrant hub of summertime fun during the warmer months. For this reason, you can plan your trip around several of the exciting summer events in Big Bear and indulge in the area’s mountain community spirit.
For music lovers, the Music in the Mountains season brings a lively atmosphere to The Village throughout the summer. Taking place at Big Bear Discovery Center Amphitheatre from July to August on select Saturdays, this open-air concert series features talented local and regional musicians playing a variety of genres. You can spread out a picnic blanket under the towering pines and grab a bite from a food truck.
If you’re visiting with the whole family, don’t miss the Big Bear Farmer’s Market. Located on Big Bear Blvd just at the corner, this market opens every Tuesday morning from April to September.
Big Bear Farmer’s Market offers a delightful cornucopia of fresh, locally grown produce, handcrafted goods, and tasty treats. With this in mind, you can let the kids get a taste of California’s farm life by watching artisans demonstrate their crafts, or fuel up on delicious breakfast burritos before exploring the market’s bounty.
Art enthusiasts and cinephiles can delight in the annual Green Jay International Film Festival. This prestigious event showcases independent films from around the globe, all nestled within the stunning backdrop of the San Bernardino Mountains and Big Bear Lake. Screenings take place in various venues throughout The Village, offering a unique opportunity to discover captivating new films and mingle with fellow cinephiles.
For a taste of Big Bear’s rich history, you can step back in time at the Old Miner’s Day Parade. Held annually in July along Big Bear Blvd, this lively event celebrates the area’s gold mining heritage. Here, you can indulge in living history demonstrations, watch gold panning competitions, and browse through unique arts and crafts created by local vendors. Also don’t forget to try your luck at gold panning, you might just strike it rich.
Beyond Big Bear’s The Village, you can explore the surrounding area and discover unique events. You can take a scenic drive to the quaint town of Lake Arrowhead for the Arts & Crafts Creations Presented by Andrew Villalobos at Calvary Presbyterian Church. You can browse through a vibrant display of handcrafted jewelry, paintings, sculptures, and more, all created by talented artists.
Foodies can rejoice courtesy of the Bird Friendly Tasting. This culinary event is a virtual coffee tasting affair that takes you through a special line-up of distinct flavors and profiles of Bird Friendly® Coffees. Get ready to learn from different speakers and a Chesapeake Coffee Roasters expert more about Bird Friendly® farming and production processes, which make the company’s coffee unique.
No matter your interests, Big Bear offers a summer event calendar brimming with excitement. Therefore, ensure that you time your visit to coincide with these lively gatherings, ultimately transforming your Big Bear escape into an unforgettable summer experience.
Packing & Safety Essentials for Your Big Bear Escape
Now that you’ve got your summer Big Bear itinerary bursting with events, let’s focus on preparing for your mountain escape. You can pack for sunny days with breathable layers, comfortable walking shoes for exploring, and a swimsuit for dips in the refreshing lake. Don’t forget evenings can get chilly, so pack a light jacket or sweater for cozy campfires under the Big Bear night sky.
When exploring this California mountain paradise, safety should always be of a high priority. Big Bear’s mountain environment is beautiful but requires a little extra planning. For starters, before you hit the road, you can check Big Bear’s weather forecast and road conditions.
And when exploring Big Bear’s outdoors, ensure that you bring a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated, especially during hikes and also be sun-savvy with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Remember, Big Bear Lake is at a high altitude, so take it easy on strenuous activities at first to avoid altitude sickness. With these tips in mind, you’re all set for a fantastic summer adventure in Big Bear
Comfort and Convenience Await in Your Big Bear Oasis
Now that you’ve got your summer itinerary brimming with Big Bear activities, events, and safety tips, imagine unwinding in the perfect home-away-from-home. Our Big Bear vacation rentals boast a variety of features and amenities designed to elevate your summer escape to new heights.
Upon stepping inside, get ready to discover inviting living spaces perfect for post-adventure relaxation. Picture yourself kicking back on plush couches, sharing stories of the day’s thrills by a crackling fireplace.
Additionally, most of our Big Bear holiday rentals feature fully equipped kitchens, ideal for whipping up delicious meals or cozying up for a movie night with popcorn. Imagine mornings spent brewing coffee and planning the day’s adventures, or evenings spent enjoying home-cooked meals around a spacious dining table.
Picture this, after a day of mountain adventures, you retreat to your Big Bear haven. Lush pine scents from the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains waft through your cozy bedrooms, each a tranquil escape, where you can unwind in comfy beds, with crisp linens ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Whether you’re a couple or a family yearning for togetherness, our Big Bear cabins provide the perfect slumber spot.
Speaking of unwinding, you can also wash away the day’s adventures in the inviting bathrooms of our Big Bear vacation rentals. Here, you can unwind with spacious vanities and refreshing showers, perfect for reviving after a hike or a day on the lake. Several of our Big Bear chalets even boast relaxing jetted tubs, ideal for soaking in the San Bernardino mountain scenery under a starlit sky.
Additionally, since our Big Bear rentals offer convenient in-house laundry facilities, you can pack light and explore freely. You can toss in sandy towels after a day at Big Bear Lake or refresh your hiking gear for the next adventure. No need to waste precious summer vacation time in Big Bear searching for laundromats, just relax and enjoy the seamless convenience of having laundry care right at your fingertips.
You can also venture outside and embrace the fresh mountain air courtesy of the breathtaking San Bernardino Mountains. For this reason, get ready to breathe in the crisp scent of pine trees covering the Big Bear landscape as you step out onto a private deck or balcony.
Most of our Big Bear vacation rentals also boast breathtaking lake or mountain views, offering a serene backdrop to your morning coffee or an evening glass of wine. With this in mind, be ready to unwind in your Big Bear rental’s bubbling hot tub under a canopy of stars, letting the day’s worries melt away.
For those traveling with a group, several of our Big Bear holiday rentals feature spacious game rooms, perfect for friendly competition. Here, you can challenge your loved ones to a game of pool or air hockey or gather around the table for a board game night. And if you’re feeling the competitive spirit, you can organize a barbeque showdown on the grill, complete with burgers, hot dogs, and all the fixings.
For those thinking of bringing the whole family to Big Bear, worry not! Most of our Big Bear vacation rentals offer amenities that cater specifically to families with children. Pack and play cribs and highchairs ensure a comfortable stay for little ones, while spacious bedrooms provide ample room for everyone to unwind after a day of exploring the stunning Big Bear landscape.
Several of our Big Bear vacation rentals are pet-friendly, so your furry companions can join in on the summer fun. Imagine cozy evenings by the fireplace with your pup curled up at your feet or taking relaxing walks together on nearby Big Bear trails.
No matter your needs or desires, we have a vacation rental that perfectly complements your Big Bear summer adventure. With this in mind, imagine waking up to cool mountain mornings, spending action-packed days exploring the beauty of Big Bear, and returning to a haven of comfort and relaxation each evening. Our rentals provide the ideal springboard for crafting unforgettable summer memories in Big Bear.
Book Your Big Bear Summer Vacation Stay at One of Our Stunning Vacation Rentals
Given that Big Bear beckons with its promise of adventure, relaxation, and endless summer fun, there’s no need to wait. For this reason, it’s time to turn your Big Bear dreams into reality. You can contact us today to book your stay in one of our stunning Big Bear vacation rentals, readying yourself for an unforgettable summer escape in this captivating mountain paradise.
