This Charming California Town Is a Year-round Retreat — Just Two Hours from L.A.

While Southern California is renowned for its endless sunshine and iconic beaches, just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles lies Big Bear Lake, a breathtaking mountain haven that offers vibrant wildflowers in spring, exhilarating summer hikes, colorful autumn leaves, and a winter wonderland filled with snow. 'Living in L.A. naturally calls for a retreat from the daily hustle, and Big Bear provides that sanctuary,' says Sara Simon, owner of Noble+Proper in Big Bear, in an interview with Dinogo. 'It's tranquil, promotes a slower lifestyle, and serves as an ideal spot to reconnect with yourself, nature, or a loved one.' It’s a locale where both Angelenos and visitors from afar can unwind—both physically and mentally. 'Here, the temperature is typically about 20 degrees cooler than in the valleys below,' adds Liz Blake, who offers sound healing and yoga in Big Bear. 'I invite travelers to come and shift their mindset, relax their bodies, immerse themselves in nature, and find solace in its quietude to soothe their busy minds.' Are you ready to discover everything Big Bear Lake has to offer? Here’s your guide to planning the ultimate mountain getaway.

Top Hotels and Resorts 

Noble+Proper

Noble+Proper provides guests the opportunity to fulfill their mountain lodge dreams while enjoying the utmost in luxury. The hotel’s cabins are adorned with vibrant wallpaper, upscale furnishings, and complete kitchens, allowing visitors to truly feel at home. 

Big Bear Lake Front Lodge

Big Bear Lake Front Lodge offers exactly what its name promises — direct access to the lake. This classic lodge features multiple rooms with full kitchens and spacious living areas, making it a perfect choice for families or large groups looking to spend quality time together. 

Midnight Moon Cabins

Planning to bring your furry companion along for your Big Bear adventure? Reserve a stay at Midnight Moon Cabins, where pets are always welcome. These three stylish cabins come with full kitchens, luxurious linens, and a chic black-and-gold decor that makes for an ideal Instagram-worthy setting. 

Top Activities to Experience 

Explore Big Bear Village.

Forgot to bring enough warm clothing? Visit Big Bear’s charming downtown area for a shopping spree in its delightful boutiques. We use the term “downtown” loosely, as Big Bear Village is essentially a short road lined with a few shops, but it offers everything you need. Check out O Koo Ran for women’s apparel or Bear Essentials for a bit of everything. 

Go for a hike.

Big Bear is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting miles of incredible hiking trails. For stunning views, make your way up Pine Knot Trail, the top-rated route on All Trails. This moderate 6.8-mile hike is worth the effort, as reaching the summit rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree vistas. 

Experience tranquility with a sound healing session.

If you're seeking a more relaxing activity, join Blake for a sound healing experience. This session features 30 minutes of guided yoga followed by a rejuvenating 15-minute sound bath, leaving you feeling completely refreshed.

Take a ride on the Alpine Slide.

Enjoy thrills and laughter as you race down the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain. Riders start with a leisurely chairlift ride to the top before hopping onto a sled to speed down the hill on a closed track. (Don’t worry, it includes a brake for those who want to slow down.) 

Conquer the slopes.

A winter visit to Big Bear offers the chance to glide down its stunning slopes. Big Bear Mountain Resort caters to skiers of all skill levels, featuring 800 acres of skiable terrain. Tickets can be purchased for half, full, or multiple days.  

Dining and Drinking Options

Breakfast at Amangela’s

Kick off your day in Big Bear by indulging in exactly what you crave at Amangela’s Sandwich and Bagel House. Here, diners can select from an extensive menu, featuring everything from piled-high veggie bagels to classic lox with cream cheese. Guests also have the option to craft their own creations, including all their favorite ingredients and nothing more. 

Lunch at The Old German Deli

Before embarking on a hike, hitting the slopes, or exploring the lake, be sure to stop by The Old German Deli. This charming eatery serves up delicious to-go sandwiches perfect for fueling your adventures. You can’t go wrong with the smoked turkey club topped with Swiss cheese.

Dinner at 572 Social

While fine dining options are limited in Big Bear, 572 Social stands out as a must-visit. The menu features a variety of shareable plates that you can enjoy on the outdoor patio when the weather permits, along with main dishes like charred salmon with caramelized onions and grilled vegetables, or seared ahi tuna steak. 

Happy Hour at Fire Rock

Raise a glass to your Big Bear getaway with a cold beer at Fire Rock. Known for its delicious burgers, the highlight here is the impressive craft beer selection. Opt for the Free Bird Blonde Ale for a light taste or the Purple Haze Raspberry Lager for a refreshing fruity sip. 

Optimal Times to Visit

The ideal time to visit Big Bear varies based on your vacation goals. For a snow-filled ski experience, plan your trip between late December and March. If you’re after vibrant wildflowers, visit in spring from late April to early June. For warm days perfect for lakeside swims, July through September is best, while for stunning fall colors, aim for late September to early November. Big Bear truly offers year-round attractions for every type of traveler. 

Getting There

The simplest way to reach Big Bear from Los Angeles is to drive on the 101 South to the 210 East, which takes about two hours (depending on traffic). Be sure to check weather and road conditions before you set off, particularly in the winter months. 

If you're traveling from a greater distance, you can fly into Ontario International Airport, located about halfway between Los Angeles and Big Bear, then rent a car for the final one-hour drive. 

Getting Around

Having a car makes it convenient to travel from one side of the lake to the other, as well as to and from the mountain and all points in between. However, if you'd prefer not to drive, you can take advantage of the Mountain Transit Bus System, which provides rides around town for just $1.50. Additionally, the Big Bear Weekend Trolley stops at Bear Mountain Resort and several other popular attractions, also for $1.50 per ride.