Where to Stay in Big Bear, CA

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Big Bear is a great year-round destination for families–and it’s actually on my list as one of the best cities in all of California. It’s best known for being a convenient place for Southern Californians to hit the slopes, but it also has many amazing campgrounds, lake activities and hiking trails that make it a great destination no matter what time of year you visit. We go every year, so people often ask me where to stay in Big Bear and where to get the best deals in Big Bear lodging. This is what I’ve come up with over the years.

This blog post focuses on the best hotels and lodges in Big Bear, but be sure to also check out the best Big Bear family campgrounds if you’re interested in camping in Big Bear.

We have been going to Big Bear as a family at least once a year every year for as long as I can remember. I even grew up going there, although not as often I do now, and never to ski. I didn’t start enjoying winter sports on the mountain until I was a young adult.

The Village at Big Bear Lake

The Village at Big Bear Lake is a charming district of restaurants, shops and entertainment. From pizzerias to fine dining, and fudge shops to souvenir shops, there’s something to please everyone in your party. You’ll even find a bowling alley, escape rooms and scavenger hunts for those looking for some more entertainment.

You’ll find free parking in front of the stores and restaurants on Pine Knot Ave. and Village Dr. Public parking lots can also be located on Alden Rd., Bartlett Rd., Knickerbocker Rd., Pennsylvania Ave., and behind the Oakside Restaurant. When you are deciding where to stay in Big Bear, know that proximity to the Village might be a big perk.

Where to Stay

I’ve stayed everywhere from Airbnbs to timeshares to a Travelodge in Big Bear. When we go with multiple families, it makes the most sense to find an Airbnb or VRBO rental that’s big enough for us to all stay together. The kids enjoy playing together, and it’s fun to all be together, especially if the house has a game room or large backyard. When it’s just our family, or if we’re looking to just stay one night for a quick ski trip, it often makes more sense to find a hotel or lodge to stay in.

These are some of my favorite Big Bear lodges to stay in.

Chateau Big Bear Boutique Resort

Why I love it: This is one of the prettiest Best Westerns I’ve ever seen, and this hotel is considered one of the best hotels in all of Big Bear. The fireplaces in the rooms make you feel like you’re at a 5-star ski resort and are great when you visit during the winter. If you visit in the summer, you can enjoy the beautiful pool area. The hotel is a great location, near both Big Bear Mountain and Snow Summit Ski Resorts. And they serve a complimentary full hot breakfast buffet, which is always a big hit and helps make for easier mornings.

Lagonita Lodge

Why I love it: This resort has a beautiful location right on the lake, and it’s just a few blocks from the main village. Even better, it doesn’t cost a fortune to stay at. Some of the rooms can accommodate up to 8 people, and they have kitchens for extra convenience. The kids love the rec room with pool tables and foosball, and of course the indoor pool.

Hotel Marina Riviera

Why I love it: The Marina Riviera hotel has lake-front accommodations that offer beautiful lake views and are central to everything Big Bear has to offer. It’s a quick and easy walk (less than 5 minutes) to The Village, but this newly renovated resort also has everything you need. Some of the rooms offer mini bars and fireplaces, and others have an overhead bunkbed or even separate bedrooms. There’s a pool and spa, outside fire pits and a private beach area. A restaurant and bar in the works to be added soon.

Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge at Big Bear Lake

Why I love it: This hotel is in walking distance to both the lake and the village, and for a small fee, you can pay for a shuttle to take you to the ski resorts. The kids love the outdoor pool and spa, and there are spacious rooms and suites to choose from.

Noon Lodge at Mallard Bay

Why I love it: These cabins are a great mixture of modern and rustic, cozy and chic. They feature fireplaces and kitchens, and are a great way to enjoy your mountain escape. Choose from a variety of cabin sizes, with some that can sleep up to 7 or 8 people. The kids love the on-site amenities, such as cornhole, shuffleboard, bocce ball, firepits and the seasonal outdoor pool.

What to Pack for Your Snow Trip

If you are heading to Big Bear in the winter, check out my Ski Trip Packing List to help make packing for your trip a breeze.

And if you’re interested in other charming SoCal mountain towns, check out these adorable cabins in Idyllwild, Ca.

Note: This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a commission at no extra cost to you.