Winter in Big Bear Lake is absolutely beautiful. Who would have thought a snowy wonderland could exist in Southern California? After a lovely weekend getaway, I have put together some ideas and tips on where to eat, stay, and play in this charming mountain town.
What to Bring for a Winter Stay
- Winter/Water Resistant Boots (like these from L.L.Bean or these from Nordstrom)
- Winter Coat (I wore this fun red one from J.Crew)
- Snow/Ski Pants
- Hat and Mittens
- Warm Socks
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Nice Camera
- Tire Chains – They were required when we visited in January. We didn’t know this, and got all the way to the top of the mountain only to realize there was a tire chain checkpoint. Luckily, someone was selling them on the side of the road and installed them for us. You do not have to have tire chains if your car has four-wheel drive and winter tires installed.
- Road Snacks for the Drive (It always takes a lot longer to drive up the mountain than Google Maps predicts since there is only one lane each way and a lot of people visiting during the winter season).
Where to Stay
Most of the hotels are pretty rustic in Big Bear. Though they aren’t necessarily modern, they possess a lot of woodsy charm.
- If you are traveling with a group, I highly recommend renting through Big Bear Cool Cabins. There are some really beautiful properties close to the city center, as well as tucked away in the peace and quiet of mother nature.
- We stayed at Fireside Lodge. Some of their rooms have private hot tubs and lake views. They also have a hotel pool. What I loved most about this hotel was the location. It is only a 5-10 minute walk to the heart of downtown Big Bear.
- Another option is Holiday Inn Resort the Lodge at Big Bear Lake. We haven’t stayed here before, but it has a great location and seemed nice.
Where to Eat
There are a ton of restaurants in Big Bear Lake. Most specialize in American food. I recommend making reservations (if accepted) as Big Bear Lake can get rather crowded during peak season.
For Breakfast… Teddy Bear Restaurant. Cash only and they don’t take reservations. They serve lunch and dinner too. We haven’t eaten here but it is always packed, so it must be pretty good!
For Lunch… Crave Maine Lobster. I know this doesn’t sound like a typical winter lunch, but lobster rolls are one of my favorite foods. I like them for lunch when I’m out and about as they typically aren’t too heavy. This place had pretty good rolls.
For Lunch or Dinner… Big Bear Lake Brewing Company. We always like to try the local breweries/beers. They have a full bar too. Their menu is diverse.
For Dinner… Oakside Restaurant and Bar. I loved the architecture of this place. It looked like an Austrian chalet. Will had steak and I had their truffle pizza. Both were very good.
What to Do in Winter in Big Bear Lake
Skiing & Snowboarding… Big Bear Mountain Resort. This is the main attraction here in winter. I recommend getting your lift ticket, season pass, or reservation online in advance. Parking is $20 per vehicle, per day. Day parking passes can be purchased in advance online.
Snow Tubing… Big Bear Snow Play (general admission for $35, children 36 – 42 inches tall for $20) OR Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain (same pricing). Children under 36 inches tall are not accepted at either location.
Snowshoeing… Big Bear Action Tour. The tour takes about 3 hours. No children under age 10 are permitted. Individual tickets cost $99. This includes “an experienced guide, snowshoes, trekking poles, and after-tour hot chocolate or coffee.” Make sure to wear waterproof snow boots and warm socks. If you’d prefer to snowshoe on your own, you can rent snowshoes from Bear Valley Bikes or Goldsmith’s Sports.
Sledding, Snowman Building, and Snowball Fights… Classic winter activities that you can do at any park or trail for free! Many local shops were selling sleds. Families were sledding down any hill they could find. Will and I had so much fun walking through the snow with our golden retriever, Lucy.
Downtown Strolling… Perfect for a romantic night out. Big Bear Lake is so cute and charming. There are large fire-pits with built-in seating dispersed throughout downtown. We enjoyed walking down the quaint sidewalks, admiring the holiday lights and cudling up by the fire.
Enjoy winter in Big Bear Lake! This town truly shines this time of year!
