When summer rolls in once again, it’s always the perfect time of year to gather your group, pack up, and make your way to scenic and sunny Big Bear, California. This ultimate summer vacation destination on the map has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you love exploring forest trails, can’t wait to get out on the water, or you have a passion for golf, you’ll find that summer in Big Bear is a place where it’s easy to embrace the best of it all.
Book an Area Tour
Getting acquainted with your alpine playground in Big Bear is an ideal way to kick things off when you plan a summer vacation in this direction. Adding a guided tour to your itinerary is always a nice way to ease into a vacation state of mind and get familiar with your scenic surroundings too. While a self-guided scavenger hunt through local companies like Riddle Routes at 40701 Village Drive can be exciting, helpful, and fun, teaming up with Helicopter Big Bear for a one-of-a-kind aerial tour this summer might just be the highlight of your stay. When you can’t wait to get above it all and get a bird’s eye view on your thrilling destination, this is definitely the way to go. Helicopter Big Bear has 10 different tour options to choose from and you can customize your route with your pilot upon request. Whether you tour for 10 minutes or explore the skies above Big Bear for 45 minutes at a time, you’re in for a treat.
Cool Off and Enjoy Summer Days on Big Bear Lake
For many summertime visitors to Big Bear, opportunities to get out on the water of Big Bear Lake lead the way to fun this time of year. There are seemingly endless opportunities to play, relax, and explore this watery oasis while you’re here, so feel free to linger longer than you might have originally planned to. The Big Bear marinas typically open in April or May each year and provide a one-stop resource for renting everything from jet skis and kayaks to fishing boats, pontoon boats, stand up paddleboards and more. Consider checking out Holloway’s Marina at 398 Edgemoor Road, Pleasure Point Marina at 603 Land Lock Landing or Pine Knot Marina at 439 Pine Knot for great boat and jet ski rental options. The Big Bear Marina is easily found at 500 Paine Ct., while North Shore Landing at 38573 North Shore Drive, and Captain John’s Fawn Harbor & Marina at 39396 North Shore Drive are also great options. At Paddles and Pedals at 40545 North Shore Lane in Big Bear, you can pair your kayak and paddleboard rentals with bike rentals as well for a full day of summer fun in Big Bear.
Hit the Hiking Trails
A summer getaway to Big Bear might not feel complete until you’ve taken time to lace up your hiking boots and hit the mountain trails alongside family and friends. Big Bear’s place in the San Bernardino National Forest means when you head this way, you have access to over 100 miles of local trails just waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking forward to a leisurely trek on a route that’s considered easy and inviting, consider adding Happy Hills Trail to your must-experience list. This route is just .2 miles in total and the one-way path is fully paved, hosts picnic tables, is wheelchair accessible, and can be reached starting right at City Hall. Another inviting path to explore is the Alpine Pedal Path, which is also rated very easy and provides adventurers with 2.5 miles of paved pathway to explore along the north shoreline of the lake.
Elevate the Outdoor Fun
For a bit more of a challenge, consider adding the Pine Knot Trail to your itinerary. This 6-mile round trip route is marked intermediate in terms of difficulty and can be accessed at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area on Mill Creek Road. Along the way, you’ll enjoy winding through lush forests and admire amazing views of Mt. San Gorgonio. Expert hikers looking for a route that will put their skills to work in Big Bear this summer won’t want to miss out on the John Bull Loop Trail. This is a nearly 15-mile trail that requires navigation skill and stamina. You can access the trail at Van Dusen Canyon Road and you’ll want to be sure you have plenty of water, sunscreen, and durable hiking boots for the experience.
Get Out on the Sun-Soaked Greens
There’s nothing quite as refreshing as knowing your summer getaway to Big Bear includes opportunities to tee off at 7,000 feet. When you’re heading this way this summer, be sure to enjoy time at the iconic Bear Mountain Golf Course. You’ll find this 9-hole course located at the base of Bear Mountain Ski Resort and will quickly discover that your time here promises to be as scenic as it is fun! The Bear Mountain Golf Course hosts an impressive clubhouse and pro shop where you can gear up as well as a convenient driving range. If you’re here to hone your skills, don’t miss out on the opportunity to book an on-site lesson with a PGA certified instructor during your visit.
Book an Amazing Summer Stay in Big Bear Today
Now is the perfect time to get your summer plans in place and when Big Bear is your vacation destination of choice, Big Bear Vacations has the Big Bear cabin rentals you need to top your stay off in luxury, comfort, and style. Reach out today to learn more about our inviting collection of options that keep you close to the fun and feeling right at home in Big Bear!
