While Southern California conjures images of endless sunshine and sandy beaches, just two hours from Los Angeles lies a striking contrast: Big Bear, a high-altitude hideaway that offers a true four-season escape. Tucked into the San Bernardino Mountains and wrapped around a namesake lake, this alpine town trades highways and palm trees for snowy slopes in winter, wildflower-strewn trails in spring, colorful foliage in fall, and breezy lakeside afternoons come summer.
At 6,700 feet above sea level, Big Bear is more than just a mountain getaway. It’s a rare ecological marvel known as a “sky island,” where mountainous ecosystems sit isolated above desert lowlands. Here, lush forests and glittering lakes sit overhead the Mojave’s arid sprawl, creating a biodiverse sanctuary. In fact, the San Bernardino Mountains rank as the seventh-most biologically diverse region in the US, home to rare flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.
For all its wild beauty, Big Bear remains remarkably accessible. Whether you’re carving fresh tracks, biking scenic trails, paddling across a glassy lake, or strolling through the storybook downtown lined with mom-and-pop shops, the pace here invites you to slow down. Though close to LA, Big Bear doesn’t buzz with influencer crowds. Instead, expect couples on romantic escapes, families roasting marshmallows, and friend groups unwinding beneath a sky full of stars.
Ready to make the trip? Here’s where we suggest you eat, stay, and explore during your time in Big Bear.
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FAQ
How do I get to (and around) Big Bear?
Like most destinations in and around LA, driving is the most convenient way to reach Big Bear. Be prepared for winding mountain roads, and try to avoid the usual traffic crunch on Friday and Sunday evenings (at one point, the route narrows to a single lane and results in a bottleneck). If your schedule allows, plan to leave early—or stay late—and carve out time for a scenic detour or a quick hike in the San Bernardino National Forest.
Don’t have a car? It’s possible to reach Big Bear via train or bus, though it does require more coordination and flexibility. Once you’ve arrived, however, everything eases up. The Village is entirely walkable, and bikes are a great way to explore the lakeshore or nearby trails. That said, if you’re traveling with kids or toting gear, there’s ample parking for your car, and rideshare services are also available throughout town.
When is the best time to visit Big Bear?
The best time to visit Big Bear depends on what type of vacation you’re after. For snow lovers, late December through March delivers reliable powder, endless runs, and a surprisingly lively après-ski scene. Come spring (late April to early June), the mountains transform into a hiker’s paradise, with crisp air and trails framed by blooming wildflowers. Summer ushers in the golden season of lake life—July through September is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sun-drenched afternoons along Big Bear Lake’s tranquil shoreline. And from late September to early November, the region puts on a spectacular show of fall foliage, making it a go-to for cozy cabin getaways and scenic drives under a canopy of crimson and gold.
The official Visit Big Bear site is a great resource for seasonal highlights and insider tips. From an adrenaline-pumping motocross competition to the laid-back summer concert series, Big Bear’s calendar is packed with events that cater to every kind of traveler.
Where to eat
For a modest mountain town, Big Bear punches well above its weight in the culinary department. With everything from grab-and-go cafés to charming sit-down spots, you’ll find a low-key but delicious dining scene.
Mornings here are best kept simple, as most visitors are headed out for a hike, a paddle, or a day on the slopes. Amangela’s Sandwich and Bagel House is a local favorite for bagels, veggie wraps, and hot chicken sandwiches to go. If you’re craving something sweet, swing by Café Crêpe, the town’s only espresso bar and crêperie, or Dank Donuts, known for homemade donuts, plus loaded breakfast burritos if you need something more substantial. Pair it all with a seasonal latte from Moonridge Coffee Company.
Midday, grab a table at Old German Deli, a quaint spot serving sandwiches piled high with meats and cheeses, or head to Tropicali, which serves delicious poke bowls—a surprising but welcome twist in the heart of the mountains. For a fresh and light alternative, Frusion Juice and Coffee Bar offers cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and veg-friendly meals.
Dinner here is unfussy but still full of flavor. 572 Social stands out with its broad menu of elevated comfort food—think char-grilled salmon, ahi tuna steaks, and artisan pizzas—best enjoyed on the sprawling outdoor patio, ideally with a craft cocktail in hand and live music in the background. For a different kind of ambiance, venture down toward the lake to De La Nonna, a buzzy pizza spot originally from LA’s Arts District known for its oversized pies and delicious dips. It’s the only lakefront restaurant in the area, offering beautiful views and an upscale dining experience. Try the frozen spritz and the hot honey pepperoni pizza.
Make sure you save some room for dessert—it’s half the fun here. The Village Sweet Shoppe offers old-school charm with bulk candy bins and nostalgic treats, while North Pole Sweets is another great spot for your sweet tooth fix. North Pole Fudge and Ice Cream Co. is the go-to for hot chocolate in the winter and handmade fudge year-round. And don’t forget to stop at An Ran Ju Gelato & Teahouse, a small spot that serves silky gelato and refreshing boba teas that hit the spot after a day in the sun or on the slopes.
Where to stay
Big Bear offers a range of stays to suit just about every type of traveler—from slope-chasers to lake loungers to those looking for a peaceful forest retreat. Vacation rentals are the go-to for many visitors, and there are a wide variety of Airbnbs in Big Bear: think midcentury A-frames tucked among the pines, rustic-modern cabins, and sprawling lakefront chalets with hot tubs and firepits. Need help narrowing down the list? Prioritize location. Stay closer to the slopes if skiing or snowboarding is on your agenda, or near The Village for walkable access to shops, dining, and nightlife.
For those craving a bit more service and style, a handful of boutique hotels offer comfort with a laid-back mountain twist. The recently reimagined Hotel Marina Riviera blends midcentury-modern design with cozy alpine charm and boasts an unmatched location. The lakeside lodge offers some truly excellent amenities: a heated outdoor pool, barrel sauna, cold plunge, and a private beach with direct lake access. Just steps from The Village, it’s also home to the best pizza in town, served at De La Nonna.
https://www.cntraveler.com/story/an-all-seasons-guide-to-big-bear-california