Big Bear Lake offers waterfront living in the San Bernardino Mountains
Big Bear Lake offers lakeside living in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. The community gets its name from the once-prolific population of grizzly bears. Over the years, it has become a popular resort destination, with the population surging to over 100,000 on weekends and holidays. Residents often live close to hiking trails, resorts and local businesses, and many properties offer views of the towering mountains and the namesake lake. “It’s a very nonconforming market and area,” says Erin Lanza, a longtime resident and local Realtor at REMAX Big Bear with 10 years of experience. “Big Bear is different than other markets in Southern California. It is also the number one vacation market in California. And the community is growing.”
Waterfront homes in Big Bear Lake feature private docks and mountain views ideal for year-round recreation.
Alpine Pedal Path in the San Bernardino National Forest offers a 3.2-mile non-motorized trail with scenic lake views.
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Eclectic cabins and custom builds around Big Bear Lake
Houses in Big Bear Lake sit along winding lakeside or mountain roads, and the landscape is covered in pine forests and trails. Lanza says most of the housing stock consists of cabins built between the 1920s and 1960s. Common architecture includes eclectic cabins, deck houses, contemporary or modern builds, and newer custom estates developed in the 2000s. Properties are often built with elevated foundations to accommodate the area’s hilly terrain. Many houses are second homes or investment properties, but the area also has some full-time residents. Small, two-bedroom houses can go between $200,000 and $500,000, and larger properties can go over $1 million. Custom-built waterfront or mountain estates with water or mountain views can go between $1.5 million and $8 million. These properties often have private docks, horse stables, acres of land and amenities like outdoor saunas and sports facilities. “Every kind of property sits on different-sized lots, and the size and styles of the homes are different,” says Lanza. Duplexes and multifamily homes are typically from $500,000 to $1 million. Condos start around $280,000 and can reach over $700,000 for waterfront or mountain view units. Mobile homes are usually under $100,000, and manufactured homes can go between $100,000 and $300,000.
Large homes tucked away in the mountain side are common in Big Bear Lake.
Homes closer to town in Big Bear Lake maintain a charming mid-century aesthetic.
Custom built cabins in Big Bear Lake make great get away homes to enjoy the mountain air.
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Outdoor recreation at San Bernardino National Forest and Big Bear Lake
Accessibility to outdoor recreation is one of the major draws here, from community parks to getting out on the lake. The community has many public parks, including a skate and BMX park and a dog park. Ski Beach Park has courts for pickleball, tennis and volleyball, sports fields and a playground. The park also has a fishing pier, and people can also go swimming here in the summer. The community is located within the San Bernardino National Forest, which has over 100 miles of hiking and biking trails. At the community's namesake lake, Big Bear Lake, people can go boating, jet skiing, waterboarding, canoeing or fishing. Those into off-roading can explore the Gold Fever Trail and the Butler Peak Fire Lookout. When winter comes, skiers can go snowboarding or skiing at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain ski resorts, snow tubing at Grizzly Ridge Tube Park or snowshoeing at one of the trails in the national forest.
The amazing North Shore Hiking and Walking Trail takes you around Juniper Point and beyond.
Go for thrills at the Big Bear Speedway.
National Forest trails give residents plenty of opportunities to get active in Big Bear Lake.
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Eateries and shops along Pine Knot Avenue &Village and Big Bear Blvd
Local boutiques line Pine Knot Avenue, including Scenic Gifts and Souvenirs; Earth's Elements, a crystals and spiritual shop; and Del Lago's Boutique, a clothing store. Popular eateries are around Big Bear Boulevard. Teddy Bear Restaurant and Oakside are laid-back places serving classic American food. Tropicali offers authentic Hawaiian fare. It also has an outdoor patio area that overlooks the lake. Grocery options include Vons, Stater Bros. and Lakeview Market.
Teddy Bear Restaurant serves classic American fare in a casual setting.
Fire Rock Burgers and Brew is a fantastic restaurant in Big Bear Lake.
Walk down Village drive and check out all the neat shops Big Bear Lake has to offer.
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Public schools in Bear Valley Unified School District
Prospective primary schools in Bear Valley Unified School District include North Shore Elementary School and Baldwin Lane Elementary, which get a B and a B-plus grade from Niche, respectively. Big Bear Middle rates a B, and Big Bear High School scores an A-minus. The local high school has an award-winning cross-country sports program, and also offers dual enrollment programs through San Bernardino Valley College.
Students are the top priority at North Shore Elementary School in Big Bear Lake.
Big Bear Middle School serves students in Bear Valley Unified and rates a B on Niche.
Big Bear High School offers A-minus rated academics and dual enrollment through San Bernardino Valley College.
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Outdoor events in Big Bear Lake
SkyFest Big Bear is an August hike and stargazing event at Snow Summit, featuring an astrophotography workshop and a star party festival. The New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade has been a tradition for over 50 years. Skiers go night skiing with their torches and help light up the mountain. Spectators can watch the spectacle of light while counting down to the new year.
Distance to San Bernardino
California state routes 18 and 38 run through the area, and San Bernardino and San Bernardino International Airport are about 40 miles away. Public bus services are provided by Mountain Transit. Bear Valley Community Hospital is located right in the city.
San Bernardino International Airport (SBD) is Big Bear Lakes closest international airport.
Local transportation in Big Bear Lake is a fun way to get around.
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Need to know
Big Bear Lake does have some drawbacks. Lanza said traffic escalates when the renting community is in the area, and there can be long waits at restaurants. Wildfires are also possible in this area.
Written By
Christina Xu
Photography Contributed By
Samuel Evans
Video By
Mary Desmond
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mike Dolan,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Big Bear Lake, CA sell after 106 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Big Bear Lake, CA over the last 12 months is $590,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
How about that Lake VIew? Charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering 1,209 sq ft of comfortable living space on a generous 6,450 sq ft lot. This inviting property features a functional layout with bright living areas and well-sized bedrooms, perfect for everyday living or entertaining. Step outside to a relaxing patio where you can take in beautiful lake views an ideal spot for morning coffee or
Step into this beautifully maintained log-style retreat, where thoughtful design meets inviting mountain charm. Soaring vaulted ceilings create a bright, open atmosphere, while a striking floor-to-ceiling decorative log feature anchors the great room. A stunning fireplace adds warmth and character, creating the perfect setting for both relaxing and entertaining. The home features a spacious
Enjoy amazing Big Bear Lake and surrounding Mountain Views from this charming one-levelhome perched in the peaceful mountain community of Fawnskin (home to famous eagles Jackieand Shadow and their eaglets). It is just minutes from all the wonderful amenities Big Bear has tooffer. Thoughtfully maintained and move-in ready, this beautiful home features easy entrythrough a spacious
TWO BLOCKS FROM THE BASE OF SNOW SUMMIT! Wait until you see the fabulous location andimmaculate condition of this recently renovated, three-bedroom, two-bath, single-story home with anattached garage in SUMMIT ESTATES. Features include an open kitchen, dining and living room,vaulted ceilings with skylights, T & G wood accents throughout, extensive front and (back-redwood)decking, a cozy used
CHECK THIS LOCATION! Wait until you see the great location and immaculate interior condition of thisspacious two-bedroom, one-bath two-story custom home with an open living, kitchen & dining areasincluding newer stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, full-sized stacked laundry facilities, anefficient wood-burning fireplace, new wood-like laminate flooring, dual-pane windows,
ESCAPE TOWNHOME STEPS TO THE SLOPES! Wait until you see the condition of this immaculate twobedroom, two-full-bath End Unit just steps away from the base area of SNOW SUMMIT SKI RESORT. Features include a floor-to-ceiling rock fireplace, vaulted-beam ceilings, an open floor plan with a fullkitchen, a separate dining area, plus a breakfast bar and ample decking for all-season BBQs. This Unit
SAY HELLO TO A GOOD BUY! Wait until you see the extensive upgrades to this immaculate 3-bedroom, 2 full bathroom custom beauty with open floor plan, wood grain laminate flooring, new appliances, granite countertops in the kitchen, breakfast bar, french doors off dining area, vaulted ceilings, huge master suite including a sitting area with electric pellet fireplace, custom tile-faced fireplace
How about that Lake VIew? Charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering 1,209 sq ft of comfortable living space on a generous 6,450 sq ft lot. This inviting property features a functional layout with bright living areas and well-sized bedrooms, perfect for everyday living or entertaining. Step outside to a relaxing patio where you can take in beautiful lake views an ideal spot for morning coffee or
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Wait until you see the great location of this charming single-storyhome with 2 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and warm, woodsy accents throughout. Featuresinclude knotty pine cabinetry, granite countertops, newer SS appliances, wood grain porcelain tileflooring, a full bay window dining area, a used brick fireplace with an efficient wood stove insert,
LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION! NEXT TO SNOW SUMMIT and chair 4. *WALK TO THE LIFTS. Don’t want to deal with shoveling snow, tree maintenance, building maintenance and ongoing work that comes with owning a single family place? Let this HOA do it for you! Just lock this townhome and go! Unit 92 is truly a TURNKEY mountain retreat in one of the best locations in Big Bear. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath unit
THIS IS IT... A RARE FIND! The last two lots at the base of Snow Summit Ski Area. Wait until you see the location of these two, separate R-3 multi-family parcels, offered at one price. Located on the S/E corner of Switzerland Dr. and Thrush Dr., and adjacent to the Snow Summit Ski Area upper parking lot, is this fenced, 17,925 sq ft corner lot with direct southern exposure with ski slope views.
Location, Location! Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Big Bear, this cabin is Perched on the edge of Bear Mountain. This cabin is located just steps away from Bear Mountain Ski Resort, there is no need to load the car up, grab your gear and go! Walking distance to golf course, zoo, & hiking trails. Inside find a cozy and inviting space with open concept kitchen, dinning and living room. The
ATTENTION HOME BUILDERS, DEVELOPERS, INVESTORS, OR FRUSTRATED HOME BUYERS! Can't findthe perfect house in the ideal location? A rare offering of two adjacent homesites at the entry toPappose Bay. Each lot measures approximately 61' X 145' with a gentle downslope, making it moreaffordable to build on. Corner markers are present, and a topo map is available for each lot. Buy onelot
Great central Moonridge location on cul de sac. Minutes to new zoo, Bear Mountain parking to catch shuttle to resort. There are high ceilings rock wood burning fireplace, a WOW updated shower with custom feature's! The 2 bedrooms are a nice size This is ready to move into and enjoy. Stacked washer and dryer, appliances stay! There is a spa on the deck and the lot is street to street. There are no
THIS IS IT... A RARE FIND! The last two lots at the base of Snow Summit Ski Area. Wait until you see the location of these two, separate R-3 multi-family parcels, offered at one price. Located on the S/E corner of Switzerland Dr. and Thrush Dr., and adjacent to the Snow Summit Ski Area upper parking lot, is this fenced, 17,925 sq ft corner lot with direct southern exposure with ski slope views.
Property Id: 2155472Very clean and wonderful location small house in Big Bear Lake Ca 92315, fully renovated in 2015, new furniture(2 king beds and two love seat recliner included if desired ), close to Boulder Bay Park and lake. Wonderful for small family , we will provide a portable washer, very easy to bring inside and hook up to the sink and portable A/C .
2 BR, 2 BA adorable home close to the Lake. Conveniently centrally located. Large, back yard with deck. Newly renovated interior. Laundry area in hallway.Furnishings negotiable. All utilities paid by renter. Electric Heating. Pet negotiable. Available Now. Rent: $1750.00, Sec Dep: $2050.00, SQFT: 920, Lot SQFT: 8000. Directions: West on Big Bear Blvd, Right on Knight.
Property Id: 1939509Closest Lodging to Snow Summit - Hot Tub + BBQ - Smart HomeSteps from Snow Summit, this 2BR/2BA smart cabin sleeps 7 and features a private hot tub, BBQ, massage chair, and fireplace. Fully equipped kitchen with Keurig, grinder, and dishwasher. Relax with high-speed WiFi, stream shows, or recharge your EV (bring cord). Enjoy easy, keyless entry, Sleep Number
Prime Big Bear location! Fully furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bath home is ideally situated just minutes from Bear Mountain Resort, about a par 1 distance from the golf course, and a short stroll to the Big Bear Alpine Zoo. Features include a bright, open living space, functional floor plan, and a private backyard deck perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Enjoy easy access to skiing, snowboarding, golf,
Property Id: 24690242 bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathsFurnishedSpectacular views of the golf course and ski slope! Located just below Bear Mountain Ski Resort, on the 8th green of the golf course in Bear Meadows condo complex, this attractive condo has undoubtedly the best views in the entire complex. Open living area upstairs has high-vaulted ceilings, brick fireplace, large
2 BR, 2 BA Gambrel with beautiful knotty pine and large windows throughout. Prime location! Foxfarm area of Big Bear Lake in a quiet neighborhood. Large fireplace in living room, open kitchen with appliances included. Large yard, Back Patio. Shared 2 car garage for your storage needs with Laundry. Long driveway for parking 2+ cars. Second bedroom is a loft. Furnishings negotiable. All utilities
Welcome to your next adventure in Big Bear Lake! This charming property offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, ideally situated near the serene Boulder Bay Park. Whether you’re looking for a seasonal getaway or a long-term residence, this home is a fantastic choice for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.Key property features include central heating and air
3 Bedroom 2 Bath Home located in Eagle Point with a 2 car garage. Walking distance to the lake and Meadow Park. Well maintained home with newer paint and carpet. Open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace and breakfast bar. Laundry room with washer & dryer. Unfurnished. All utilities paid by renter. Pet may be negotiable. Available now – appointment necessary. Rent $2600.00/mo, Sec Dep
Ready to view !!! Great home in Big Bear lake with very large backyard. Just a block to medow park to swim beach, .This propery has a nice deck that sits off the front of the house and upgraded windows in many of the rooms. Stay cozy with the fireplace and hardwood floors, stove and fridge. great Location and close to everything. Easy access in Winter.
3 BR, 2 BA located in a popular area of Moonridge with a 1 car detached garage. Open kitchen, Large deck. Laundry area Garage. Furnishing Negotiable. All utilities paid by renter unless otherwise specified. Pet negotiable. Available now – appointment necessary. Rent: $2000.00, Sec Dep: $2300, SQFT: 1078, Lot SQFT: 7442. Directions: West on Big Bear Blvd, Turn left onto Moonridge Way, Turn left
Fresh, modern, and recently updated (including a brand-new roof and insulation), this mid-century chalet sits on a quiet cul-de-sac in one of Big Bear Lake’s most sought-after neighborhoods: Moonridge. Perched at the top of a hill, the cabin offers stunning tree-top slope views of Bear Mountain and peek-a-boo views of Snow Summit from the sunny wrap-around deck.Bright, clean, and full of
2 BR, 1 BA unit close to Bear Mountain, zoo and golf. Storage area included. Remodeled a couple years ago with newer appliances. Unfurnished. All utilities paid by renter except water. Small pet negotiable. Available Now.Rent: $1600.00, Sec Dep: $1900.00, SQFT: 700. Directions: West on Big Bear Blvd, left on Moonridge.
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