Towering pine forests, a pristine lake, excellent ski resorts, and woodsy accommodations, make a perfect setting for a Big Bear romantic getaway. Sip wine by the fire on a cold winter’s night, dine in luxurious ambiance, or hike to a high point in the mountains with a beautiful view of Big Bear Lake. All around Big Bear you will find places that inspire romance; we’ve put together a list of our top five spots for romantic getaways in Big Bear, CA so you can spend time with your special someone instead of having to hunt around for the best places.
Peppercorn Grille
With its beautiful views of quaint Big Bear Village, intimate atmosphere, and delicious food, Peppercorn Grille makes for a perfect romantic dining experience. Dine on the sumptuous fare in a private booth or on the flower-framed heated patio. The soft, twinkling candlelight completes the romance picture.
Open for lunch and dinner, Peppercorn Grille offers an incredibly delicious menu of Italian dishes and unique international meat, seafood, and vegetarian entrees. Start your romantic dinner for two off with appetizers of their crowd favorites Warm Artichoke Spinach Dip or Calamari. Their soup and salads (including their signature clam chowder) are perfect for lunch. Pizzas, cannelloni and lasagna, and several kinds of pasta (try their Lobster Ravioli or Seafood Bouillabaisse) choices will satisfy your Italian cravings, while the pork, chicken, steak, and lamb menu options will take care of the rest. And there’s seafood to choose from too! You probably won’t have room for dessert, but you can order it to go. Their house-made desserts are amazing. Give them a call at 909-866-5405 to make your romantic dinner reservations.
The Pines Lakefront
Offering the only truly fine dining in Big Bear, The Pines Lakefront originated in the 1920s. With unobstructed views of Big Bear Lake, patrons looking for a romantic Big Bear getaway can enjoy dining inside in cozy fireside ambiance or outside on the cozy wind-protected patio. With its exposed wood beam, wood floors and rustic detailing, this is upscale mountain décor at its best, and the entire place has a pleasant, retro 1930’s feel to it.
Their impressive menu offers Black Angus beef, a large assortment of poultry, pork, and seafood dishes, and an assortment of game including elk, venison, and wild boar. The Pines is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day except Monday and Tuesday, and is the perfect spot for that special event you’re planning. Renew your vows on Valentine’s Day or celebrate another great year together overlooking beautiful Big Bear Lake. Call ahead (909-866-5400) for reservations.
Castle Rock Trail
Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine and pull your hiking boots on to discover this romantic Big Bear getaway. The breathtaking views of Big Bear Lake from the top of Castle Rock Trail make for a serene and romantic place to spend time with your loved one. The popular trail going in is mostly uphill, but you will find the spectacular panorama to be well worth the effort. It’s not a grueling uphill climb, and the path through the tall pine forest is replete with splendid rock outcroppings and plenty of forested romantic places off the side of the trail. This is one of the things that every visitor to Big Bear should do at least once. It’s dog friendly too!
Boulder Bay Park
One of Big Bear’s newest park additions, Boulder Bay Park on Big Bear Lake is loaded with beautiful rock formations and has several islands made entirely from interestingly shaped boulders. Placid lake waters, a beautiful pristine shoreline, and a huge dock for fishing or just taking in the view makes for a wonderful romantic picnic spot. The park is a popular place for snow play in the winter, and is just as wells suited for a perfect Big Bear romantic getaway when it’s covered in white.
Besides the lovely mountain views, this popular park (just about five minutes from The Village) has public bathrooms, picnic benches and a gazebo. Another dog friendly park! Time your visit for dusk when the crowds have thinned and the setting sun fills the sky with color.
Big Bear Village
Take a stroll through the quaint historic town of Big Bear Village. The Village’s lovingly restored structures dating back to the mid-1800s gives an atmosphere of romantic antiquity; all throughout the Village you will find eclectic boutiques, galleries, and little family owned eateries. Every Friday night the Village comes alive with an arts and crafts fair, great shopping, and live music. Each week features new cooking demonstrations, and periodic events such as wine walks and treasure hunts.
If you’re still looking for romantic, fine dining for that special dinner, there are a few more spots in The Village to try. Next to the Pines Lakefront is the Pines Tavern, an upscale lounge where you can enjoy a cocktail or two and authentic Santa Maria BBQ. Santana & Maverick’s is another great choice, with an eclectic menu that features French, Asian, Italian, Mexican and American items, and a gorgeous lake view. And Stillwell’s Restaurant will have you feeling like you’ve always been in Big Bear. Enjoy seafood, poultry, steaks and more at this casually elegant dining establishment.
Of course, you can always just stay in your cabin for that quiet, romantic dinner. Order your favorite meal to go, pick it up then dine al fresco out on the deck overlooking the lake, or settle down in front of the roaring fire and enjoy your meal. You can pick up some chocolates and favorite desserts, (grab a few Valentine cupcakes at Sister My Sister Bake Shop), while you’re in town, along with a bottle of champagne to enjoy.
Check out our Big Bear romantic cabins today!
