Plan Your Boating in Big Bear Journey Today

If you’re headed to the lake and want to experience the best of what the water has to offer, boating in Big Bear is the way to go. With calm waters, crisp mountain air, and scenic spots all around, a day on the lake can be as relaxing or as active as you want it to be. Whether you’re cruising solo, heading out with family, or planning a group day on the water, Big Bear Lake offers something for every kind of boater.

Pick Your Ride

There’s no shortage of ways to get out on the water here. Marinas around Big Bear Lake offer rentals for just about every kind of experience. You’ll find pontoons for groups and families, fishing boats for early morning anglers, and wakeboard boats if you’re in the mood for something faster and more adventurous. Looking for something quiet and low-key? Duffy electric boats are ideal for smooth, slow cruising with zero engine noise.

You can also rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and jet skis for a more hands-on or adrenaline-filled time. Most marinas offer flexible rental windows, from an hour to a full day. If you’re new to boating, don’t stress. Staff are usually great about walking you through the basics, so you’ll be lake-ready in no time.

yoga

Know Before You Go

Safety is a top priority on Big Bear Lake, and there are a few simple rules to know. Life jackets are required for everyone on board, and children under 13 must wear one at all times. Rental shops provide all necessary safety gear including flotation devices, whistles or horns, fire extinguishers, and navigation basics.

Speed limits are enforced. Keep an eye on posted signs and stay within designated boating areas, especially if you’re towing a wakeboarder or inner tube. Avoid swimming zones and maintain distance from the shoreline to prevent erosion and protect wildlife.

Afternoons can get breezy, so plan your outing for the morning if you want calm waters. Weather changes fast in the mountains, so check conditions before heading out.

Make It a Full Day

With so much to explore, it’s easy to fill an entire day on Big Bear Lake. Start in the morning while the water’s still glassy. If you’re fishing, that’s the best time to cast a line. For everyone else, it’s a good time to relax, find your route, and settle into the day.

Cruise toward Boulder Bay, one of the calmest and most scenic spots on the lake. It’s perfect for a floating lunch, snapping photos, or just letting the world slow down for a bit. Garstin Island is another go-to for anchoring nearby and taking in the views.

Pack a cooler with drinks, sandwiches, and snacks, and don’t forget towels, sunscreen, and a Bluetooth speaker. If you’re boating with kids, plan a stop at Meadow Park, which is close to a beach and shallow water access for a swim or picnic. Restrooms are available at some public docks and marinas, so you can plan accordingly.

More Than Boats

Boating isn’t the only way to enjoy Big Bear Lake. If you’d rather leave the navigation to someone else, hop on a guided boat tour. These range from casual sightseeing trips to themed cruises and fishing charters. Tours are a great way to learn about the lake, its history, and the best places to explore on your own later.

Fishing is a big deal here, especially for trout, bass, and catfish. You can rent all the gear you need from the marinas, and many offer fishing licenses on-site. Want more speed? Grab a wakeboard, tube, or skis and make use of the lake’s designated high-speed zones. Just be sure to follow local guidelines to keep things safe for everyone.

trout

When to Go

Boating season runs from late spring to mid-fall. May through October is ideal, but the experience shifts a bit with the seasons.

Summer is peak season, with warm water, long days, and full-service marinas in full swing. It’s also the busiest, so book rentals early and expect more traffic on the water—especially on weekends.

Early fall might be the best-kept secret. Crowds thin out, but the weather stays pleasant well into October. Water levels are still solid, and the mountain scenery starts shifting into golden tones, which makes for unforgettable views from the water.

Spring is cooler, but perfect for fishing and morning boat rides. Wind tends to pick up in the afternoon, so early launches are best if you’re here before summer hits.

Browse Our Big Bear Summer Rentals Here!

Stay Steps from the Water

Why leave the lake when you don’t have to? With Big Bear Vacations, you can book a waterfront stay that puts boating, swimming, and relaxing just outside your door. We offer everything from cozy lakefront cabins to spacious vacation homes with dock access, perfect for boaters who want to spend every minute lakeside. Book your Big Bear Lake vacation with us today!