No matter the season, Big Bear stands out as a must-visit spot. Nestled in southern California and most known for its Big Bear Lake, this location is frequented by travellers from all over the world who are seeking a cosy getaway.

And honestly, who could blame them? Big Bear is known for its endless tours, breathtaking hiking locations and a TON of skiing. It’s an adventurer lover’s dream. 

However, due to its small-town charm, finding the perfect place to stay can sometimes be a challenge. But never fear, my friend, that is exactly why I’ve created this guide to the best hotels in Big Bear!

Whether you’re into snug, cosy and budget-friendly or large and extravagant – I’ve sorted through all the options to present to you the absolute BEST of the best, the creme de la creme, the cream of the crop… of hotels in Big Bear. 

So, without further ado, let’s get into it.

View from above looking over Big Bear Lake
Let’s run through the BEST hotels in Big Bear 🙂

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Selection criteria

When booking any type of hotel it is important to understand exactly what you need. Here are some of the top things you should be prioritising.

  • Location: The location of your hotel can make or break a trip. Whilst some people love being right in the centre of all the action, others might prefer a quieter location for a serene escape. To choose a location, you have to decide what kind of trip you want to take. A quiet getaway? Or a jam-packed trip filled with activities?
  • Customer reviews and ratings: Sometimes hotels can make themselves sound good, but the reviews tell a whole different story. Since booking.com has a five-star rating system, you’ll find that it’s easy to see whether a hotel is a good choice. I’ve checked each of these hotels to ensure they have high ratings and previous guests who have had positive experiences.
  • Amenities and services: The more conveniences that a hotel caters to, the better the stay there is. I’ve chosen accommodation options that go out of their way to provide amenities to help you feel comfortable throughout your entire trip here. 
  • Price range: Everybody has different budgets and I’m always down for a trip that offers a bargain. Because of that, I’ve made sure to consider a range of budget types in this guide. So whether you want to go all out on a luxurious trip or you want to visit Big Bear without breaking the bank whilst backpacking in the US, there are options for you on this list.

With all of those factors considered, keep reading to discover my guide on the best Big Bear hotels. By selecting a hotel from this list, you will have an unforgettable trip (but in the best way possible.) So scroll through, choose your favourite, book your flights and have the time of yo’ life!

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    Top Hotels in Big Bear

    Alright then, let’s get this show on the road and you on the slopes. Let’s take a look at this list of the best Big Bear hotels for your next trip.

    Château Big Bear Hotel

    Château Big Bear Hotel

    This château in Big Bear is quite incredible. Inside, the hotel features European-style decor creating a luxurious and contemporary feel. It honestly makes you feel like royalty as soon as you arrive.

    The hotel offers everything you could need (and more) including a seasonal outdoor pool, a hot tub and an on-site cocktail lounge. Oh, and they even have a delicious daily buffet breakfast. Make sure to take advantage of that!

    The rooms are decked out with free Wi-Fi, a satellite TV and even additional film channels so you can cuddle up after a long day of activities with a movie and snacks.

    Speaking of activities, there are plenty of skiing opportunities nearby including Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Each of these is only one mile away from the hotel. If you’re willing to travel a little further, you’ll discover some breathtaking hiking trails and the Moon Ridge animal park.

    And as if this hotel couldn’t get any better, they even offer a convenient fitness centre and a games room which is complete with a hockey and table tennis table. Who doesn’t love a bit of friendly competition while on vacation?

    When staying in Big Bear, not a moment will go by when you’re struggling for something to do. Needless to say, the reviews are full of five-star ratings.

    Home2 Suites

    Home2 Suites Big Bear California

    Another epic option to stay in whilst in Big Bear is the Home2 Suites by The Hilton.

    This is your traditional kind of hotel, serving a delicious buffet breakfast each day, a stunning indoor pool and plenty of lounge areas. This hotel is perfect for digital nomads or anyone who is planning to work while on this trip. There are multiple areas to connect to Wi-Fi and stay productive.

    Aside from working, though, your day can be filled with skiing at the Alpine slide at Magic Mountain or putting some shots at the Gold Mine golf course. So if you’re looking for one of the best hotels in Big Bear that has a far more modern appeal, this is it!

    The Hampton Inn

    The Hampton Inn Big Bear California

    The Hampton Inn at Big Bear Lake is an extremely popular ski resort in the USA and with good reason.  The surrounding area is incredibly scenic and you’ll have access to some pretty top-tier mountain hikes. Inside the hotel, you’ll discover facilities such as an indoor fitness centre and a 24-hour front desk.  

    Additionally, this hotel is in the perfect location for some of the most popular activities in Big Bear. Make sure to add Big Bear Marina, the Alpine slide at Magic Mountain and the Gold Mine golf course to your itinerary. Oh, and you also won’t miss out on any skiing opportunities here!

    Additional features at the hotel include an indoor pool, a hot tub and a continental breakfast each morning. The rooms themselves are spacious and clean and even feature additional facilities such as microwaves, sinks and fridges. 

    There are a variety of rooms available so no matter what type of group you are travelling in, everybody will feel comfortable staying here.

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    Robinhood Resort

    Robinhood Resort Big Bear California

    The Robinhood resort can only be described as the perfect cabin getaway, the type you often see in the movies. The rooms are large, and depending on the room you pick, you may get access to additional facilities such as a kitchenette, a spa bath and coffee-making facilities.

    However, this is one of the best hotels in Big Bear due to its ongoing entertainment. Be prepared to be entertained all night long! There is live music during the evenings, dancing at Friar Hook bar, happy hour and a seemingly endless supply of food.

    In terms of popular nearby attractions, Big Bear Marina and Big Bear Lake are just a five-minute walk away and the Nordic ski area is just a 20-minute drive away.  This hotel is rated highly with each guest praising how clean the accommodation was or how stunning the entire area is. It really seems as though the staff go out of their way to make your stay here one that you remember. 

    Vintage Lakeside Inn

    Vintage Lakeside Inn Big Bear California

    The Vintage Lakeside Inn promotes such a sense of nostalgia. I just can’t quite put my finger on what it is about this hotel! This hotel in Big Bear is great for travellers on a budget as the room prices seem fairly affordable. The staff are praised throughout the reviews for being exceptionally enthusiastic and friendly, making your stay here even better. 

    The rooms, although slightly smaller compared to others on this list, still feature everything you need for a comfortable and snug stay. Although the on-site restaurant is currently closed (at the time of writing this), you will be a five-minute walk away from vintage Lakeside. Here you’ll find the village where you can discover more locations to eat and shop! 

    Honestly, I always recommend checking out local restaurants on trips, so don’t let the lack of on-site catering be a deal breaker for you, see it as an opportunity instead! As for your itinerary, it will be packed with activities. Make sure to visit Cedar Lake and grab your skis for more skiing.

    Big Bear Frontier

    Big Bear Frontier

    Located on a private beach on the shores of Big Bear Lake this is easily one of the best hotels in Big Bear. Due to the proximity to the lake, there are plenty of opportunities to try your hand at fishing or even go swimming.

    The cabins themselves are freshly remodelled and feature plenty of hot water, big TVs and large beds. The resort even has an outside barbecue and fire pit. Spend time here in the evenings, singing songs and roasting marshmallows!

    The hotel has that cosy cabin feel (which I love so much) with rooms that offer free Wi-Fi and comfortable beds. One of the most popular attractions nearby is the Big Bear Pirate Ship. Then, of course, there will be plenty of opportunities to hit the slopes.

    Oh, and this resort is pet-friendly, so your best furry friend is welcome to stay too. As somebody who will take my dog pretty much anywhere if I can, I will always appreciate it! 

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    Sessions Retreat & Hotel

    Sessions Retreat & Hotel Big Bear California

    Finally on this list of the best hotels in Big Bear is the Sessions Retreat & Hotel. Just scrolling through the photos, you can see that this hotel just has a fun vibe with colourful rooms and open-plan seating areas, which are great for meeting other travellers.

    Additionally, the resort features a large garden, free private parking, a shared lounge area and a terrace for some late-night chats under the stars. Inside the rooms, you’ll discover free Wi-Fi, comfortable beds and some rooms are even fitted with a kitchen.

    Most importantly, you’ll be around 2.5 km away from the Alpine slide at Magic Mountain. You’ll also be a short drive away from the Goldmine golf course. This option is particularly popular with couples due to the convenience of nearby restaurants and other activities in Big Bear. Overall this hotel is great value for money and definitely worth considering!

    Booking a Hotel in Big Bear

    Booking a hotel in Big Bear is easy with booking.com. When booking, simply select your favourite option, and choose your dates and the number of people who will be staying.

    Just remember to keep two things in mind: the reviews and the nearby activities.  By doing so, you can make sure that you are booking the hotel that has the overall vibe that you want for your trip.

    Booking a Hotel in Big Bear on a Budget

    When it comes to booking a hotel in Big Bear on a budget, timing really is key.  Booking in advance often means cheaper prices and choosing to plan your trip during off-peak seasons often drives down the price too.

    If you’re on a strict budget, consider booking your trip during the week instead of a weekend and avoid visiting during any big holidays.

    Get Insured BEFORE Visiting Big Bear

    I don’t travel anywhere without insurance, and neither should you. Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Big Bear.

    ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

    They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

    SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

    Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

    FAQs About Big Bear Hotels 

    Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about hotels in Big Bear.

    Discover Big Bear With The Broke Backpacker

    That concludes this guide on the best hotels in Big Bear and they did not disappoint! Big Bear is one of those places where you can just completely embed yourself in nature and disconnect from the chaos of life.

    If you’re looking to go all out for this vacation, I highly recommend the Château Big Bear Hotel. It has such a luxurious feel to it and you’ll have an endless list of activities on your itinerary whilst you stay here.

    However, if you’re tightening the purse strings for this trip, no need to worry! Vintage Lakeside Inn is a great affordable option that is still in a good location.

    I don’t feel like I need to convince you more about why a trip to Big Bear is worth it so… what are you waiting for? Book your stay, folks!

    a snowboard in the ski mountains in USA
    Catch you out there!
    Photo: @amandaadraper
    Looking for more info on visiting Big Bear and USA?

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