Big Bear Lake

This peaceful mountain community is surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest.

Welcome to Big Bear Lake

A four-season mountain escape, this peaceful community is renowned for its hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and much more

Named after the adjacent scenic freshwater lake Big Bear, this peaceful mountain community is surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest. Brimming with oak and pine trees, Big Bear is renowned for its lush natural habitat and abundance of recreational activities. Natural wildlife includes nearly 30 species of rare plants—ten of which are indigenous to the area—and wintering bald eagles. Big Bear is also home to the country’s only solar observatory and several alpine zoos that work diligently to rehabilitate animals.

This joyous, tight-knit community bustles with adventure and boasts several public campgrounds, shopping centers, restaurants, and a 9-hole golf course. Popular outdoor activities include water sports, mountain biking, hiking, and fishing. At the center of the community is the acclaimed Big Bear Mountain Resort and family-friendly Snow Summit, home to varied terrain and learner slopes for skiers at every skill level.

What to Love

  • Water sports
  • Scenic views
  • Hiking trails
  • Wildlife
  • Full spectrum of seasons
  • Joyous community

People & Lifestyle

Whether you're looking for a vacation home or hoping to relocate permanently, Big Bear Lake accommodates every lifestyle with various housing options. The best part about owning a home in Big Bear Lake is that you can take advantage of seasonal recreation year-round.

Go snowboarding and skiing in the winter months and camping and enjoying outdoor BBQs during the summer. Springtime is the perfect season to go hiking or mountain biking. Big Bear Lake is Southern California's top autumn destination because of the spectacular colors of the array of aspens, oaks, and maple trees in the surrounding forests. Big Bear Lake properties range from the lower $100,000 for a small chalet to the millions for a lakeside mansion.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

The Red Barn should top your list of must-visit shops in Big Bear Lake. Boasting the only olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting bar in Big Bear, delicious gourmet foods ranging from no-bake desserts to party platters, and an extensive selection of farmhouse accessories and home decor, The Red Barn is truly a one-of-a-kind gift shop.

Once the area’s most prosperous region for gold mining, Gold Rush Mining Adventures is a unique and immersive gift shop and attraction that honors Big Bear’s fascinating history. Shop personalized gemstone accessories that match your birth month or dig for treasures in a themed exploration area.

As the name suggests, Bear Essentials is a charming, boutique-style souvenir shop nestled in the mountainside that sells items ranging from necessities to self-care products.

After a long day spent shopping or skiing in Big Bear Lake, grab a bite to eat and sip some of California’s best wines at warm, unpretentious wine bar Barrel 33. This elegant venue also hosts a variety of events.

A local greasy spoon with a casual atmosphere and homemade pies, Teddy Bear Restaurant specializes in American comfort food.

Things to Do

Big Bear Mountain Resort is home to year-round adventure, from world-class skiing in the winter to golf on a verdant 9-hole golf course during the summer. Big Bear is close to its twin resort Snow Summit, another spectacular destination for family-friendly activities, hiking, snowboarding, and more.

The largest Oktoberfest celebration in Southern California, Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest honors this traditional German festival with food, games, and beer. Try authentic brats and knockwurst alongside beers that have been featured in Munich for over 150 years.

Boulder Bay Park stands out all year-long as an excellent place to immerse yourself in the area’s natural splendor. Located close to Big Bear Dam, this park is a sunny hub for picnics and outdoor recreation. It’s a lovely place to relax in the sun, go canoeing, take a scenic hike around the lake, or sled down the gentle slopes during the winter.

Schools

The Bear Valley Unified School District supports towns in the Big Bear area, including Big Bear Lake, Big Bear City, and Sugarloaf. Composed of seven schools, the district includes Big Bear Elementary School, North Shore Elementary School, Baldwin Lane Elementary School, Fallsvale Elementary School, Big Bear Middle School, Big Bear High School, and Chautauqua High School.

 
 
 

Properties In This Neighborhood

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