Are you ready for an unforgettable escape from the bustling streets of Los Angeles? Discover how to enjoy the idyllic charm of Big Bear Lake, just two hours away, and create lasting memories with your friends over a perfect girls' weekend getaway.
While many may envision Big Bear Lake primarily as a winter wonderland ideal for skiing adventures, this hidden gem transforms in the summer months, offering lush greenery, a stunningly clear blue lake, and a cozy village atmosphere. I had the pleasure of experiencing this enchanting locale earlier in September, which, as most of us know, is peak summer in LA. What a delightful contrast it was! The serene environment, beautiful weather, and absence of city chaos made for the ideal retreat, leading to its recent acclaim as the top lake in the country, as recognized by USA Today readers.
Nestled along the shores of a bountiful fish-filled lake, Big Bear Lake is a small city brimming with independent boutiques, unique gift shops, and delightful dining options. It also holds a rich heritage, being home to the indigenous Serrano people. Their influence can still be observed today through cultural practices such as the revival of their traditional language, singing, and basket weaving. Annually, the community celebrates their vibrant culture with a three-day Pow Wow, showcasing music and dance that respects their native traditions and involving the town’s approximately 5,000 residents (as of 2020).
Whether you are a local Angeleno or visiting the City of Angels and searching for an alternative to the typical excursions to Santa Barbara or Palm Springs, I have crafted the perfect itinerary to maximize your 48-hour escapade in these scenic mountains.
Activities to Enjoy:
Most accommodations, be it cabins or hotels, generally have a check-in time around 4 PM. To fully capitalize on your weekend, I suggest arriving bright and early. Make sure to secure a parking spot by the lake and take a moment to unwind at one of the many beach coves. Lay out a towel, take a refreshing dip, and allow yourself to ease into relaxation.
Venture around the northern edge of the lake to uncover some hidden treasures. The lake's edge features a delightful mix of sandy and pebbly beaches—ideal for swimming, floating, or just dipping your toes in the warm waters.
One of the best ways to behold the beauty surrounding Big Bear is from the lake itself. Holloway Marina is a fantastic place to rent a variety of pontoons for a couple of hours or even the whole day. This enjoyable experience is truly second to none and is perfect for groups as it accommodates six to twelve people. Notably, the boats come equipped with Bluetooth, allowing you to cherry-pick your favorite tracks for an ideal lake playlist.
Situated high up in the mountains, there’s no shortage of hiking trails to explore. Whether you’re a novice outfitted for the outdoors or looking for a more challenging trek that requires well-stocked gear, Big Bear has trails for everyone.
Surprisingly, Big Bear Lake also hosts an amusement park, which is not just for kids anymore! If you’re feeling adventurous, challenge yourself on the Alpine Slide—the only bobsled ride in Southern California. It begins with a breathtaking chairlift ride, offering panoramic views of the lake, and you can choose how fast you want to go. Another option is the Mineshaft Coaster, a two-seater ride where you can control your speed on a thrilling one-mile track, along with go-karting, mini-golf, and during summer, you can even enjoy a water slide!
A trip would not be complete without some time spent at a spa; I firmly believe it is essential for a truly refreshing getaway. One thing to consider, however, is that power outages and thunderstorms can occur frequently at this high altitude—over 7,000 feet above sea level. Just before I left, the town found itself without power! Yet, I was not deterred from my eagerly anticipated hot stone massage at Indigo Spa, a recently established oasis in the town. Despite the blackout, Chelsea at Indigo refused to let me cancel. She lit battery-operated candles, and with the help of a carefully curated Spotify playlist I had on my phone, my massage became possibly the most rejuvenating 90 minutes I've experienced this year.
Shopping Adventures:
No girls' getaway is complete without a stroll through delightful shopping areas. Village Drive is the go-to spot for an array of charming independent boutiques. A personal favorite was O Koo Ran, which offered a diverse range of trendy clothing and accessories from smaller brands. I still regret passing up on a whimsical cardigan adorned with dancing cowboys and cowgirls.
Among other notable stops, be sure to check out the Leather Depot and the Village Faire, a hidden treasure trove of various vendors selling everything from cleverly named used books like "Bearly Used Books" to vintage signs and second-hand records.
