Big Bear Lake is a seasonal destination with attractions and activities to entertain all ages throughout the year. It is a popular getaway due to its many mountain and lake activities and adventures.
Winter offers a plethora of fun-filled snow options such as maneuvering the landscape while downhill skiing, showing off moves and techniques on a snowboard, or whisking down a mountain slope on a sled.
When the weather is warmer, the lake heats up with its own assortment of water-related entertainment, with boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
There's plenty to do on land at Big Bear Lake, including hiking the many scenic trails, seeing the sights from atop a horse while touring the area, or tackling the terrain on a mountain bike.
When to Visit Big Bear Lake, CA
Since Big Bear Lake is a seasonal destination for travelers, there isn't a bad time to visit. The city averages more than its share of sunny days with summertime temperatures averaging 80 degrees. Rainfall is minimal, with the area receiving about 22 inches annually. The comfort index for humidity in the U.S. averages 44, while Big Bear Lake averages 25. The higher the level, the more comfortable the location.
Winter enthusiasts have the best of both worlds while staying at Big Bear Lake with its easy access to several skiing resorts. Temperatures can vary between 20 to 40 degrees and snowfall averages between 62 and 100 inches each year. As a top destination in America for winter skiing, you'll encounter crowded conditions and higher rates, and hotels may be completely booked.
Spring is one of the best times to enjoy the beauty of spring blossoms at their height and ideal outdoor temperatures for exploring. Daytime averages 60 to 70 degrees and nighttime averages 40 degrees. In addition, the winter crowds have gone, making the area less crowded. The lines are shorter, and more accommodations are available.
Summer is another busy season with the area's seven miles of lake and a long list of water sports that includes sailing high in the sky on a parasail, jet skiing around the lake, kayaking, wakeboarding, or trying your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. If you prefer land-based fun, take a ride on the Scenic Sky Chair to Snow Summit and enjoy the magnificent views along the way. Ride back or hike down, it's up to you.
Fall is a photographer's dream season as it brings a rainbow of autumn hues when the leaves begin their annual changing of colors. The season is perfect for taking a guided Jeep tour through the backcountry with camera in hand. Fall is also when the annual Oktoberfest celebration takes place.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Big Bear Lake, CA:
Big Bear Lake, CA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Big Bear Lake, CA. Browse these charts to calculate the cheapest months to book a room in Big Bear Lake during the year.
Luxury Hotel Options in Big Bear Lake, CA
4 Star Average Prices: $193.49
Breath in the fresh mountain air and enjoy beautiful scenery and sunsets from the comfort of a lakefront room or suite at the Marina Resort. Rooms are decorated with charming rustic furnishings, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Relax on the private beach, unwind in the Jacuzzi, swim in the pool, or take a hike, Segway excursion, or a zip line tour. Big Bear Lake Village is across the street with assorted dining and shopping venues.
Once you check into Big Bear Frontier, you'll want to extend your stay as the cabins offer an exceptional guest experience. Choose the cabin size you need, such as a studio with a queen bed, fireplace, TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee maker, and kitchen with a microwave. You also have a choice of a one, three, or five-bedroom cabin, some equipped with a whirlpool, dining area, private deck, full kitchen, and multiple TVs. Enjoy mountain views, a private beach, barbecue area, and a soothing hot tub and heated pool. The resort is pet-friendly.
Affordable Hotel Options in Big Bear Lake, CA
3 Star Average Prices: $152.87
Robinhood Resort offers lake views and the convenience of nearby Big Bear Lake Village along with three separate buildings featuring upscale rooms and suites. Choose Sherwood Forest with its deluxe spas, fireplaces, and lake views, or Robinhood Inn, which offers standard rooms and suites. For cozy comfort in either a single, double, or triple bed, choose the Wishing Well, which is in walking distance of the village. Tickle your taste buds with California cuisine and refined wines at Nottingham's Tavern. Dine at King Richard's Room beside a crackling fireplace, Little John's Pub for family dining, the pet-friendly patio of Camelot's Courtyard, and Friar Tuck's Tavern with live music and ongoing entertainment.
When you choose to stay at Big Bear Lakefront Lodge, the lakeshore is outside your door. Stay in a well-appointed lake view or garden suite, kitchen suite, spa suite, or a two-story cabin. Room amenities will keep you comfortable with fireplaces, wet bars, kitchens, and kitchenettes. Enjoy the views from your patio or balcony, or walk down to the shoreline for a breath of fresh air. Watch cable TV, refresh with a cool drink from the mini-refrigerator, or fix a snack in the microwave.
