Located just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, you will find the beautiful resort city of Big Bear Lake, California. Nestled between the spectacular forests of the San Bernardino Mountains and wrapping around a gorgeous blue lake is Big Bear Village.
One of the perks of this up-and-coming city is its year-round diversity. A stay in Big Bear California can find you whizzing down the slopes of Snow Summit or Big Bear Mountain in the winter months. Come the summertime, you could be hiking through numerous beaming sun-filled Big Bear hiking trails. You’ll never be short of activities in this stunning California destination.
But with so many attractions in Big Bear, it’s important to choose a neighborhood to stay in that’s close to all the amenities you need, so you can make the most out of your vacation… Where to stay in Big Bear?
That’s where I come in!
In this guide, I have highlighted the five best areas to stay in Big Bear California. I’ve then gone on to organize them by their sites, suitability to travel styles and budgets. With my help you’ll know the best neighborhood to stay in Big Bear based on your travel needs.
Now, I’ll stop rambling and get underway!
Photo: @amandaadraper
Looking for a specific place to stay but don’t have much time? Whether you’re staying for a week or a weekend, here’s a quick compilation of accommodations absolutely loved by visitors to Big Bear CA.
Budget Lodging Lake View Fireside Lodge | Best Budget Accommodation in Big Bear
Located in the family-friendly neighborhood of Big Bear Lake East lies this brightly lit condo that sleeps up to four guests. An idyllic place to stay in Big Bear for families.
This comfortable and spacious home offers the entire family brilliant onsite facilities. All the amenities, including deluxe bedrooms, a private balcony overlooking the lake, a warming indoor swimming pool as well as indoor and outdoor spa tubs.
Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge | Best Hotel in Big Bear
In the exceptional Big Bear Lake Centre lies the Holiday Inn Resort which offers guests a sense of full service hotel luxury. If you’re an adventure lover, then the Holiday Inn Resort is the ultimate place to stay in Big Bear Village.
Top attractions including skiing, snowboarding, and hiking all on the doorstep of the lodge. The hotel is also uniquely decorated to resemble a mountain cabin atmosphere, with their King Room giving a fireside lodge vibe.
Lakeviews Lookout | Best Airbnb in Big Bear
Lying on the northern shores of the lake in the neighborhood of Fawnskin is Lakeviews Lookout. This clean and comfortable two-story cabin features panoramic lake and ski slope views from its gorgeous sun decks.
The interior is spacious with an open-plan layout and fireplace. Lakeviews Lookout is perfect for enjoying a book and snuggling up under the blankets.
Big Bear Lake Central
Lying on the south shore of the lake in the heart of Big Bear lies the visitor-favorite neighborhood of Big Bear Central. One of the larger neighborhoods stretching from Metcalf Bay to Meadow Park, Big Bear Central isn’t short of things to do making it the perfect place to stay in Big Bear for first-time visitors.
Fawnskin
Located on the northern shores of the lake Fawnskin is one the most history-rich neighborhoods in Big Bear Lake and provides guests with an authentic small-town experience. Here you will also find some of the best views in Big Bear, including snow-capped mountains oozing into the deep blue lake.
Big Bear Lake West
Beaming with a laid-back vibrance, Big Bear Lake West is where most visitors will pass through when arriving in the picturesque lakeside city. Starting at the Big Bear Lake Dam and extending along to Metcalf Bay the long neighborhood provides spectacular views as you drive past including rocky mountain landscapes and sparkling deep blue waters.
Big Bear Lake East
A vibrant and safe environment, Big Bear Lake East is the perfect place to stay in Big Bear for families. Here you are close enough to be amongst it all just a five-minute drive to the village center but also far enough away to enjoy some peace and quiet if need be.
Moonridge
This neighborhood is the epitome of mountain resort living. With chic cabins and plenty of private rental properties to choose from snuggled under the snowy slopes of Bear Mountain, Moonridge is something else.
Fawnskin is a small neighborhood located on the northern shores of the lake just a 15-minute drive away from Big Bear Village. Somewhat a hidden gem in Big Bear, once an artist’s colony, Fawnskin is a culturally rich neighborhood in a beautiful location. With the most accessible untouched nature in Big Bear Lake, Fawnskin is a great alternative for those who want a more laid-back getaway. For anyone backpacking California, you’ll find cheaper accommodation options here compared to Big Bear Center.
Big Bear is well-known for being an incredible winter destination with the famous Big Bear Ski Resort, which is also an epic hiking area in California in the summer. If you are into hiking, golfing, and freshwater swimming, Big Bear is about to be your ultimate summer getaway.
If it’s your first time visiting Big Bear, you’ll want to be centrally located amongst the hustle and bustle in Big Bear Lake Centre. This is called Big Bear Village, where you will find the best selection of hospitality options including lively bars and tasty restaurants. If you’re looking to explore Big Bear’s best attractions, this neighborhood is an awesome option as it is close to the mountain resort, Magic Mountain, and trails.
Moonridge is my recommendation for a snug cabin-in-the-woods vacation in Big Bear. Here, you’ll find plenty of private cabin rentals tucked into the pine forest covered slopes of Bear Mountain. This is undoubtedly the place to be if you want to max out your snow sports winter holiday. Don’t sleep on Moonridge Coffee shop while you’re here, a wonderful place to spend time in the community.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
What used to be just a gateway to the town center, Big Bear Lake West is now one of the coolest areas to stay in Big Bear. With much more lakeside accommodation, visitors get a sense of an off-the-beaten-path getaway. Despite the feeling of seclusion, you’re just a short distance (only 5 miles!) to main shops and restaurants in Big Bear Lake Centre.
Finally, there’s Big Bear Lake East, the perfect place to stay for families! Here you will find a variety of larger accommodation options in safe areas along with plenty of outdoor activities to keep the kids entertained.
Big Bear’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look in more detail at the four best neighborhoods to stay in Big Bear. Each offers something different to visitors, so be sure to read each section carefully and pick the neighborhood that best suits your interests and needs.
1. Big Bear Lake Central – Where to Stay in Big Bear for Your First Time
Lying on the south shore of the lake in the heart of Big Bear lies the visitor-favorite neighborhood of Big Bear Central. One of the larger neighborhoods stretching from Metcalf Bay to Meadow Park, Big Bear Central isn’t short of things to do making it the perfect place to stay in Big Bear CA for first-time visitors.
Whether you want to experience a bit of culture at the Performing Arts Centre, eat some tasty food along Big Bear Marina, or let out your adventurous side and head to the nearby snow summit, you are sure to have a great time.
The neighborhood is also full of accommodation options for all travelers from cozy rustic cabin rentals to budget lodging, Holiday Inn accommodation, and lakefront guest houses.
Sessions Retreat & Hotel | Best Budget Hotel Family Accommodation in Big Bear Lake Central
Sessions Retreat is situated centrally on a large property within walking distance of all the amenities in Big Bear Village. Featuring an array of cabin rentals and room options to satisfy the entire family and couples alike, no doubt you’ll have a wonderful stay.
Considerate of how people would like to enjoy their Big Bear vacations, the hotel is stuffed with intimate decor and there are fire pits outside. For the summer months, there’s a pool too, making it a great place for a vacation base.
Holiday Inn Resort | Best Hotel in Big Bear Lake Central
Perfectly located with Big Bear’s top attractions including first-class skiing, snowboarding, shopping, and endless outdoor adventures all within steps from the mountain resort. The Holiday Inn resort provides a variety of rooms throughout the hotel for different group sizes. All are immaculately decorated to resemble a mountain resort atmosphere, yet with the modern feel of a deluxe hotel.
Black Forest Lodge | Best Continental Hotel in Big Bear Lake Central
Black Forest Lodge is a Bavarian-style lodge, with cottages as well as rooms, all including free breakfast and full room service to make you feel like you’re in Europe, one of the ultimate attractions of Big Bear vacations.
With options to choose a rental cabin with spa tubs, and continental breakfast included in every room, Black Forest Lodge is the perfect place to stay to rest and recharge while still being central to Big Bear Village. Easy to navigate and handy to all amenities, a free trolley to the mountain resort is available from reception, just ask their friendly staff!
Modern Cabin in the Woods | Best Airbnb Cabin Rental in Big Bear Lake Central
This modern peaked roof cabin is within walking distance to the south shores of the glistening lake in Big Bear Village. Fitting up to six guests, this rental cabin is a great option for a getaway with a group of friends or a small family.
Boasting three generous bedrooms – including one with bunk beds, and two full bathrooms the cabin is also equipped with a full kitchen. With a fireplace as well as a wooden deck boasting a hot tub, make the most of your Big Bear vacation spending special evenings relaxing.
Things to See and Do in Big Bear Village (Big Bear Lake Central):
- Hit the slopes at Snow Summit Ski Resort
- Go Zip Lining through the canopies of the forest
- Bobsleigh or water slide down the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain (season dependent)
- Have a picnic in Boulder Bay Park
- Take a trip to Gold Rush Mining Company Adventures and try your luck at gold mining.
- Explore the hike trails at Big Bear Mountain
- Play a round of golf at Bear Mountain Golf Course
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Fawnskin – Best Place to Stay in Big Bear on a Budget
Located on the northern shores of the lake, Fawnskin is one of the most history-rich neighborhoods in Big Bear Lake and provides guests with an authentic small-town experience. Here you will also find some of the best views in Big Bear, including snow-capped mountains oozing into the deep blue lake.
Being located slightly further away from the center of Big Bear Lake has meant prices tend to be a tad lower here making it a great place to stay in Big Bear on a budget. It’s also a little more remote, which is more suited to those visiting on a California road trip.
Despite its more rural location, the quaint little town offers a small selection of restaurants and cafes meaning if you don’t feel like making the trek into Big Bear Lake central you don’t have to.
Rustic Fawnskin Lodge | Best Luxury Accommodation in Fawnskin
Set amongst tall pine forests, the property is perfectly located for nature lovers with guests able to enjoy beautiful views from the home’s private deck.
Featuring an outdoor grill, a full kitchen inside, and a fireplace, you’ll be able to feast with your crew in this cabin rental that has been built to be enjoyed. Just 15 minutes drive from Big Bear CA, away from the hustle and bustle of Big Bear Lake Hotels, this cabin in the woods is an easy walk down to the lake and surrounded by trailheads.
Lakeviews Lookout | Best Airbnb in Big Bear
This large chalet can fit up to nine guests and provides a true mountain experience with beautiful two-story cabin rentals resembling those of the Swiss Alps. The home boasts top-class facilities including gorgeous sun decks featuring panoramic lake and ski slope views and a cozy brick wood fireplace.
Spacious Studio Cabin | Best Budget Accommodation in Fawnskin
This quiet retreat on the North Shore of Fawnskin is just a short walk to the lake. Guests will be provided with a rustic experience with their own private cabin located in a secluded, forested area. Staying here will mean you get all the benefits of Big Bear without the traffic, whilst also only being a 10-15 min drive to ski resorts & the village.
Things to See and Do in Fawnskin:
- Wander along Grays Peak Trailhead
- Observe the wildlife at Fawn Park
- Have a picnic at Grout Bay
- Trek along the Cougar Crest Trailhead
- Go kayaking off the north shores of the lake
- Play sports at the North Shore Recreation Area
- Take a boat cruise across the lake
3. Big Bear Lake West – Coolest Place to Stay in Big Bear
Beaming with a laid-back vibrance, Big Bear Lake West is where most visitors will pass through when arriving in the picturesque lakeside city. Starting at the Big Bear Lake Dam and extending along to Metcalf Bay the long neighborhood provides spectacular views as you drive past including rocky mountain landscapes and sparkling deep blue waters.
In Big Bear Lake West you will find an array of accommodation options including many sought-after waterfront properties many of which boast jetties that stretch out over the lake.
Guests staying in this neighborhood are provided with the best of both worlds with a rural mountain getaway feeling but also just a short distance to the hustle and bustle of Big Bear Lake Centre.
Grey Squirrel Resort | Best Hotel in Big Bear Lake West
This laid-back resort-style hotel is equipped with 19 rustic and charming cabins situated throughout a luscious three-acre, common recreation area. With a variety of different lodging options, a pool, and a family-friendly outdoor area, this hotel can cater to all.
Grey Squirrel Resort is the perfect place to stay in Big Bear Lake for large groups or families. Capable of hosting guest sizes ranging from two-100 and everything in between, book in advance to guarantee your vacation.
Blue Horizon Lodge | Best Cabin Rentals in Big Bear Lake West
This property offers an assortment of quaint cabins perfect for a small family. Featuring rooms fitted with bunk beds as well as a kitchenette to whip yourself up a tasty hot drink in the morning before a big day of exploring. With a comfortable, homestyle setting and decor, Blue Horizon Lodge provides the perfect cabin rentals to explore all Big Bear Lake CA has to offer.
A-Frame Cabin near Snow Summit | Best Airbnb in Big Bear Lake West
This stunning lodge is located in one of the most desirable parts of Big Bear Lake West with close access to the mountain and its slopes, it’s just steps away from the lake. The property also offers unique features including a wood stove and loft sleeping space.
Things to See and Do in Big Bear Lake West:
- Explore the Castle Rock Trail
- Take a trip to the ruins of Dam Keepers House
- Take a boat trip to Treasure Island
- Visit Bluff Lake Reserve, via Jeep Tour
- Float on the waters at Cedar Lake
- Hike to Butler Peak
- If you’re up for driving in the US, head out to Lake Arrowhead.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Big Bear Lake East – Best Neighborhood in Big Bear for Families to Stay In
A vibrant and safe environment, Big Bear Lake East is the perfect place to stay in Big Bear for families. Here you are close enough to be amongst it all just a five-minute drive to the village center but also far enough away to enjoy some peace and quiet if need be.
Big Bear Lake East is home to plenty of things to do including nearby the Snow Summit Resort, the southern shores of the lake, and the Big Bear Valley Historical Museum.
There are many miniature neighborhoods inside Big Bear Lake East all of which offer different experiences and different budgets making it a great place to stay for all types of travelers. This includes the sought-after Fox Farm and Eagle Point.
Best Western- Big Bear Chateau | Best Hotel in Big Bear Lake East
The Best Western Big Bear Chateau is beautifully decorated with a modern interior with European-style decor. The hotel provides guests will excellent facilities including an outdoor pool, hot tub, and on-site cocktail lounge. It is also in a prime location just a five-minute drive away from Big Bear Village.
Lake View Condo Lagonita Lodge | Best Budget Accommodation in Big Bear Lake East
This brightly lit condo sleeps up to four guests, making it an idyllic place to stay in Big Bear, absolutely loved by families. This comfortable and spacious home offers guests brilliant onsite facilities including deluxe bedrooms, a private balcony overlooking the lake, and a warming indoor swimming pool.
Family Cabin W/ Hot Tub | Best Bed & Breakfast in Big Bear Lake East
Located in Big Bear Lake East in the small trendy and quiet neighborhood of Fox Farm, Big Bear Village lies this stunning cabin nestled between tall pine trees. A modernly decorated wooden interior with a spacious open-plan layout Bear Necessities can comfortably sleep up to seven guests. Guests staying here will also be less than five minutes from key attractions including Snow Summit, Bear Mountain, and of course, Big Bear Lake.
Things to See and Do in Big Bear Lake East:
- Take the kids to Big Bear Snow Play
- Visit the Big Bear Valley Historical Museum
- Explore Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve
- Hit the slopes at Bear Mountain Ski Resort
- Wander the Town Trail
- Experience the views at Pebble Plains
5. Moonridge – Where to Stay in Big Bear for Mountain Activities
Photo: @amandaadraper
Last but not least, set back from the lake and huddled into the mountain, may I present to you, Moonridge. This neighborhood is the epitome of mountain resort living. With chic cabins and plenty of private rental properties to choose from snuggled under the snowy slopes of Bear Mountain, Moonridge is something else. I feel this is the place to stay if you’re about escaping, exploring, and taking in the beauty of the mountains. It’s about slowing down, getting cozy, and making memories.
While Big Bear Village is less than a 10 minute drive from Moonridge, there is so much to enjoy within this neighborhood. Spend the morning immersing yourself in the best cafe in Big Bear and enjoying the area before hitting the slopes if that’s your vibe. I find plenty of entertainment spending time drinking coffee and people watching when I’m on vacation.
Make the most of the nature surrounding you while you’re outside of Big Bear Village and explore the wonderful hiking trails around the area. Even if snow sports aren’t your thing, getting up to Big Mountain and playing around in the snow is truly a fairy-tale experience not to be missed if the timing is right for your trip.
WorldMark Big Bear Lake | Best Hotel in Moonridge
With the choice of one or two bedroom apartments and plenty of them, this hotel in Big Bear California has room for everyone.
WorldMark is a wonderful choice for travelers who like activity. Included in the hotel is a games room, a fitness center, a tennis court, hot tubs as well as a pool! A clean, fully equipped kitchen is included in each apartment and the staff are helpful and friendly, making you feel at home.
Bearadise | Best Mountain Lodge Accommodation in Moonridge
Sitting pretty right on Bear Mountain is Bearadise, a snug cabin rental that comfortably fits 7 people. With windows overlooking the ski hill of the mountain resort, guests only wish that they’d had longer to stay.
This rental cabin has it all with a cozy fireplace, a full kitchen as well as a pool table in the loft. With Bear Mountain Resort a walking distance from Bearadise, this is the perfect place to stay to make the most of the snow sports available at Big Bear Lake.
Tree Hütte | Best Airbnb in Moonridge
Tree Hütte is a modern rustic rental cabin tucked away in Bear Mountain’s pines with stunning forest views. This 3 bedroom mid-century chalet has been given a modern mountain update to bring the camp vibe to your vacation at Big Bear Lake.
You can immerse yourself in the wonders of the great outdoors here, sledding, hiking, and biking to your heart’s content from the property. Tree Hütte is well equipped to truly soak up the mountain serenity of Moonridge. With a gas fireplace, a bathtub, and a record player accompanied by a curated collection of records, a wonderful chill chalet.
Things to See and Do in Moonridge:
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Start your morning with a cup of Joe and Breakfast at Moonridge Coffee
- Hike or Snowshoe Big Bear Trails
- Don’t miss a donut from Dank Donuts
- Take a tour on Miss Liberty Paddlewheel Tour Boat
- Visit Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk & Wildlife Preserve
- Get yourself up Bear Mountain! Check out our Best Snow Backpacks
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Big Bear
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Big Bear and where to stay.
What To Pack For Big Bear
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Big Bear City vs. Big Bear Lake CA, what’s the difference?
Big Bear City is a residential area to the east of the lake. Big Bear Lake is the mountain resort town edging the lake where you’ll find restaurants dotted throughout Big Bear Village as well as tourist attractions and a short trolley ride out of town, Big Bear Mountain.
When is best to visit Big Bear California?
Well, how long is a piece of string as the adage goes? Haha, all jokes aside, I love being able to enjoy all the wonderful nature this area has so I choose to visit in spring, when the heaviest snow has melted, however, if your main objective is snow activities, get there between December and March.
How deep is Big Bear Lake?
Man, so deep. Not actually that deep… At 72 ft (22 metres) you could have a challenge with your mates to touch the bottom. Breathwork baby! Side note, Big Bear Lake is actually a man-made reservoir, about 7miles (11km) wide.
Photo: @amandaadraper
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Big Bear
Remember, whether you’re a broke backpacker, a couple on a week-long vacay, or an entire family enjoying a Big Bear Holiday, everyone needs good travel insurance.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Big Bear
Big Bear is one of the best resort towns in California. Home to the stunning Bear Mountain Ski Resort, incredible views at the Pebble Plains, and some of the most postcard-picture-worthy spots in the states.
With such a variety of places to stay, it can be hard to pinpoint the best area in Big Bear. If I had to pick one place that stands out it would be the south shore neighborhood of Big Bear Central. Here you will find the largest selection of accommodation options along with being close to plenty of the area’s key hotspots. Get amongst all this wonderful mountain resort has to offer ASAP!
I hope this guide has helped you narrow down your choices for traveling to Big Bear. All you have to do now is decide when to go! Let me know in the comments below if I missed anything.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Photo: Ana Pereira
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
