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SightseeingOutdoor AdventureFamily Favorite

Big Bear Lake

40824 Big Bear Blvd · Big Bear Lake, CA

Why you should go…

Big Bear Lake is a mountain lake resort community in Southern California's San Bernardino National Forest, about an hour from the Los Angeles area. The destination offers skiing and snowboarding in winter and fishing, hiking, mountain biking and lake activities the rest of the year. Visit Big Bear operates the official visitor center at 40824 Big Bear Blvd and promotes the area's dining, lodging and events.

  • #hiking
  • #lake
  • #skiing
  • #mountains
  • #outdoor

Good to know

General sightseeing guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • The forecast is part of the ticket

    Haze, low cloud, and rain flatten a view. Clear-day visits are worth rearranging your plans for.

  • Golden hour sells out first

    Sunset slots at observation decks and cruises are the first to go, so book those further ahead.

  • Dress a layer warmer

    It is always breezier up high and out on the water than it feels at street level.

  • Timed entry is common

    Plenty of landmarks release tickets in windows rather than at the door, so check before you walk over.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Big Bear Lake, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain

    $25–$50

    Southern California's year-round alpine slide, plus a mountain coaster and go-karts in Big Bear Lake.

    0.7 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Family Favorite

    Big Bear Snow Play

    $50+

    Year-round outdoor park in Big Bear Lake with the region's longest tubing runs, a go-kart speedway and a ropes course.

    2.7 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor

  • Shopping
    Local Gem

    Cabazon Outlets

    Free

    Open-air outlet shopping center off I-10 near Palm Springs with brand-name retailers.

    24 mi awaySwitch it up: Shopping

  • Sightseeing
    Family Favorite

    Murrieta

    Free

    Family-friendly Southern California city in the Inland Empire with dozens of parks, trails and a lively town square.

    49 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Temecula Valley

    Free

    Official tourism site for Temecula Valley, Southern California's wine country region.

    53 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Temecula Valley Wine Country

    Free

    Southern California wine region near San Diego and LA, home to nearly 50 wineries open for tastings and tours.

    53 mi awayMore like this