Big Bear City, California, is a top destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a peaceful mountain getaway. Whether you’re searching for a rustic cabin nestled among towering pines, a lakefront vacation rental with breathtaking views, or a stylish chalet with modern amenities, Big Bear City has something for everyone. With year-round activities such as skiing, hiking, and fishing, it’s the perfect place to experience the great outdoors. Book an Airbnb in Big Bear City and embrace the charm and tranquility of this mountain paradise.
Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Big Bear City
Big Bear City is a quieter alternative to the busier Big Bear Lake area while still offering easy access to top attractions. The town is surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest, providing stunning scenery and countless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you prefer exploring scenic trails, hitting the ski slopes, or simply relaxing in a cabin with a warm fireplace, Big Bear City has it all. Each neighborhood has its own unique appeal, making it easy to find the perfect place to stay.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Big Bear City
Big Bear Lake East
Big Bear Lake East is a great area for visitors looking for peaceful surroundings with easy access to both Big Bear City and Big Bear Lake. This neighborhood offers a mix of cozy cabins, modern homes, and waterfront properties with stunning lake views. Guests can enjoy boating, fishing, or simply watching the sunset from their private deck. The proximity to the lake and forest trails makes it an excellent choice for nature lovers.
Moonridge
Moonridge is a top choice for those visiting Big Bear City in the winter, thanks to its close proximity to Bear Mountain Ski Resort. This area is perfect for ski enthusiasts, offering a variety of slope-side cabins and lodges. In the summer, Moonridge transforms into a haven for hikers and mountain bikers, with trails winding through the scenic landscape. Many Airbnbs in this neighborhood feature hot tubs, fireplaces, and breathtaking mountain views, making it a great year-round destination.
Sugarloaf
For a quiet and secluded retreat, Sugarloaf is a fantastic option. This residential neighborhood is surrounded by towering pines and provides a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier parts of Big Bear. Vacation rentals here include charming cabins with rustic interiors and spacious decks. Sugarloaf is ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds while still being within a short drive of the lake and ski resorts.
Fox Farm
Fox Farm is an upscale neighborhood known for its spacious homes, beautifully landscaped yards, and modern amenities. Airbnb options here include luxury lodges and contemporary chalets with high-end features such as game rooms and gourmet kitchens. This area is centrally located, offering easy access to ski resorts, the lake, and shopping districts. Fox Farm is perfect for families and groups looking for a comfortable and stylish stay.
Baldwin Lake
For a truly off-the-grid experience, Baldwin Lake provides a remote yet beautiful setting. This area is less developed than other parts of Big Bear City, making it ideal for those who want to reconnect with nature. Visitors can find rustic cabins and eco-friendly retreats with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Baldwin Lake is perfect for those looking for solitude, stargazing, and exploring the untouched wilderness.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Big Bear City
Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake is the heart of outdoor adventure in the area, offering activities such as boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. In the winter, the lake’s surroundings transform into a winter wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing and photography. Several marinas provide boat rentals, making it easy to spend a day on the water. No visit to Big Bear City is complete without experiencing the natural beauty of Big Bear Lake.
Bear Mountain Ski Resort
Bear Mountain Ski Resort is a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort features a variety of ski runs catering to all skill levels, as well as terrain parks for snowboarders. During the summer, the resort offers golf, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides with breathtaking views. Whether you're visiting for skiing, snowboarding, or summer activities, Bear Mountain is a premier destination in Big Bear City.
Snow Summit
Snow Summit is another top-rated ski resort in the Big Bear area, known for its well-groomed slopes and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing during the winter months. In the summer, Snow Summit offers mountain biking trails and hiking routes with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. It’s a great spot for both adventure seekers and families looking for fun outdoor activities.
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
For a fun and thrilling experience, the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is a must-visit attraction. This year-round amusement park offers a scenic chairlift ride to the top, followed by an exhilarating bobsled-style ride down the hill. Visitors can also enjoy go-karting, mini-golf, and a snow play area during the winter. It’s a great place for families and groups looking for entertainment beyond skiing and hiking.
Big Bear Discovery Center
Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to the Big Bear Discovery Center, which offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided nature walks. The center serves as a gateway to the San Bernardino National Forest and provides valuable information about the local wildlife and ecosystem. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts while enjoying scenic trails and outdoor activities. It’s a great stop for those looking to enhance their knowledge of the region.
Where to find a vacation rental near Big Bear City
Lake Arrowhead, California
Just 40 minutes from Big Bear City, Lake Arrowhead offers a similarly scenic mountain escape with a more upscale resort feel. The area features beautiful hiking trails, lake activities, and a quaint village filled with shops and restaurants. Enjoy a tranquil stay in a vacation rental in Lake Arrowhead, ranging from rustic cabins to elegant lakeview homes. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a serene retreat with a touch of luxury.
Idyllwild, California
Located about two hours south, Idyllwild is a charming mountain town known for its art scene and peaceful ambiance. Visitors can hike through the San Jacinto Mountains or explore local galleries and cafés. Booking a vacation rental in Idyllwild offers a relaxing alternative with forested surroundings and cozy accommodations. It’s perfect for those seeking a quiet, nature-filled getaway.
Palm Springs, California
Roughly two hours away, Palm Springs offers a dramatic shift from the mountain air to desert luxury. Known for its mid-century modern architecture, stylish resorts, and vibrant nightlife, it’s a fantastic complement to Big Bear’s rustic charm. Renting an apartment in Palm Springs provides access to golf courses, spas, and poolside relaxation. It’s an excellent destination for travelers craving sunshine and sophistication.
Joshua Tree, California
Approximately two and a half hours from Big Bear City, Joshua Tree is a magnet for outdoor adventurers and artists. The national park is famous for its surreal desert landscapes, climbing spots, and stargazing. Visitors can enjoy the area's creative spirit by staying at a house in Joshua Tree, often designed as unique desert retreats or eco-lodges. It’s a compelling destination for those looking to connect with nature in a truly distinctive setting.
Wrightwood, California
About 90 minutes west, Wrightwood is a small mountain town that offers skiing in winter and scenic hikes in summer. With a quiet village center and a friendly local vibe, it’s a great place to unwind. Staying in a vacation rental in Wrightwood puts travelers close to the Angeles National Forest and Mountain High ski resort. It’s an underrated gem perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Venture into thrilling winter landscapes and majestic mountain escapes across the United States.
Experience the adrenaline rush of winter sports with exceptional skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Enhance your adventure by visiting Ellicottville holiday homes, where the enchanting slopes of Holiday Valley await winter enthusiasts. For those who crave high-altitude excitement, consider staying at the vacation rentals in Frisco, providing easy access to the renowned resorts of Copper Mountain. Alternatively, cozy up in an airbnb Breckenridge, right next to the world-class skiing terrain Breckenridge Ski Resort is famous for.
Surrounded by majestic mountains, this destination offers an idyllic retreat for nature lovers. For a diverse mountain experience, the vacation rentals in Flagstaff introduce you to the wonders of the San Francisco Peaks and its vibrant forest trails. If you are seeking the charm of Southern Appalachian landscapes, Ellijay rental properties in Georgia offer proximity to the captivating Blue Ridge Mountains. Meanwhile, those looking to explore the tranquility of the Northern Rockies will find endless beauty and adventure with various airbnb across Idaho, where the rugged mountains and pristine lakes create a paradise for outdoor aficionados.