BIG BEAR LAKE

Getting to Big Bear

Before I moved to California, Big Bear Lake was at the top of my weekend get-a-away list thanks to social media photos and a favorite design show called "Inn The Works". While I knew the area would be beautiful, nothing quite prepared me for the magical experience I encountered during my short stay.

For starters, I was unaware that entering Big Bear requires driving through the winding roads of the San Bernardino National Forrest. I was blown away by the breathtaking mountain views, towering rocky cliffs, and the sea of pine trees. I found myself teary eyed multiple times during the drive, completely overcome by the reality that this magical space was not only home, but close enough to become a staple memory maker for myself but also my friends and family who visit.

Places to Stay

Securing a place to stay at Big Bear can be really tricky in the peak Winter season, which can take reserving months to a year in advance. However, if you're like me and desire to experience Big Bear in the off seasons when its warmer and without snow, then finding a place to stay is as easy is booking the week of!

I chose to stay in this adorable studio cabin that I found on air bnb for $103 a night. The cabin came equipped with a full kitchen, comfortable Queen bed, bathroom, and cozy living room area. For just me and my dog, it was perfect. It definitely wasn't fancy but had a nostalgic rustic feel to it. 

If you're looking for a budget friendly and historical experience, I'd also recommend checking out Oak Knoll Lodge. This cabin lot dates back 100 years and recently underwent the start of a renovation by designer Lindsey Kurowski. You can see what she's renovated on the property so far by watching her series, "Inn The Works", featured on the Magnolia Network.

Her adorable cabins go for as little as $145 a night, up to $350 a night for the larger family multi-room cabins. Plus, the more business she brings in, the more she's abel to invest on further renovating this adorable group of cabins.

Of course you can always splurge on really fancy family cabins like this one! But for me, I was looking for a budget friendly, rustic cabin for a quick overnight stay.

Things to Do

While I'm sure Big Bear is a whole other level of magical during the Winter season when ski resorts are in full swing, I personally preferred to visit during the Summer time in late August. Because of this, I was able to do more than I probably would be able to do in the snow season.

I started my overnight get-a-way trip off with a peaceful kayak around the lake. Boulder Bay was perfect for free parking, a clean public restroom, and an accessible public kayak launch ramp. Plus, a kayak renting station was adjacent to the parking lot in case you don't have your own Kayak like I did.  This bay area also has picnic tables, benches, and a swimming beach open to the public. The views of the lake from this spot are stunning.

That night, I ventured to Azteca Grill, a local Mexican Cantina with great service, live music, and delicious food for a great price.

On Saturday morning, I enjoyed a gorgeous hike on the infamous Castle Rock trail. This 2.4 round trip hike quickly ascended a 500 foot elevation level which made for an incredible view of the lake once I reached the top. The trail was moderate and definitely not for those with mobility challenges. This trail is perfect for adventurous kiddos and my dog did great on the trail.

I grabbed some delicious home-style breakfast at Country Kitchen  before ending my trip at Alpine Slide: a mountainside park with a metal mountain coaster, mountain slide, zip line, bumper carts, putt putt golf, water slide, arcades, and more! Taking the ski lift up the mountain to the slide tapped into my inner child! This was a trip I will never forget, and already cannot wait to come back in the Fall!