Sitting on the banks of charming Big Bear Lake in Southern California, Big Bear Lake is a small yet beautiful city. Enchanting lakeside landscape, fabulous skiing opportunities, the proximity of San Bernardino National Forest, mountain trails, and abundant fishing opportunities make this lovely city a perfect mountain lake escape to settle back with your loved one. Have fun sliding down the snowy slopes as you enjoy skiing with your spouse. Do not miss the fantastic experience of mountain biking and hiking by exploring various beautiful trails of the San Bernardino National Forest. Go on a romantic stroll with your better half on the streets of charming Big Bear Lake Village, which boasts numerous restaurants, gift stores, and boutiques. So, if you are planning a romantic excursion with your beloved one in Big Bear Lake, the mesmerizing Californian city has got plenty to offer. The best vacation rentals and cabins in Big Bear Lake await your arrival. Keep reading to learn about the top romantic things to do in Big Bear Lake, California.
Travel advisory
Take note that street parking is not permitted in the winter at The Village. Overnight parking at public parking lots is also banned.
But fret not, as the city has a fun public transport initiative to help get visitors all over the city. Free Big Bear Trolley offers three trolley routes that will take you to restaurants, ski areas, shops, and more. You can track the trolleys live and check out the routes on their tracking app.
Why Trust Trip101?
✅ Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team
✅ Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles
✅ Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)
✅ Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform
✅ Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts
✅ Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more
✅ Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content
Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.
Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.
1. Stroll through Big Bear Lake Village
A great couple’s place to go in Big Bear is Big Bear Lake Village. It’s a fantastic retreat for couples who are holidaying in this Californian city. Nestled in the scenic San Bernardino Mountains, the Village is a recreational hub of shopping and dining venues. Surprise your spouse with a romantic candlelit dinner, and buy beautiful home décor for your home. Spend a pleasant time as you sail on the serene waters of the lake with your loved one and marvel at the scenic surroundings. Stroll around exploring various delightful boutique stores and souvenir shops, and enjoy the bowling fun.
Big Bear Lake Village
Address: Big Bear Lake Village Business Association, P.O. Box 1989, PMB 321, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Big Bear Lake Village
2. Hike the Castle Rock Trail
If you love hiking, go on a hiking excursion with your beloved one at Castle Rock Trail. As it’s situated near the Big Bear Lake, exploring this sprawling 2.6-mile (4.18-kilometer) trail offers you a bird’s eye view of the mesmerizing lake. Pose with your spouse and click a photo with a picturesque backdrop. As you proceed, watch a variety of plantations, such as soaring pines, cedar, and white fir trees. Also, hiking here provides you with great opportunities to spot wildlife.
Castle Rock Trail
Address: Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States
Website: Castle Rock Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
3. Enjoy playing in the snow and hot cocktails
Big Bear Lake is a destination that’s popular for its plethora of outdoor activities. This fun experience hosted by Amber lets you travel back in time and enjoy the snowy outdoors like you did as a kid; it’s even better if this tour is your first experience with snow. A great accompaniment to the crisp snowfall is a nice glass of Bailey’s with coffee, with which you will be served. If you’re looking to go somewhere private in Big Bear, this activity is where it’s at. Amber will take you to the hidden gems in the area where you’ll freely frolic in the snow with your loved one.
Book Tours : Snow play and hot cocktails Big Bear
4. Zip line through the great Big Bear outdoors
If you’re up for one, an exhilarating activity to do with your partner in Big Bear Lake is a high-speed zip line. Join this Viator tour and pump your adrenaline up by gliding along the breathtaking Johnson Valley. This fun excursion kicks off with a bang: an off-road ATV ride into the lush greens of the valley. There’s a total of nine zip lines, all of which are included in this bang-for-your-buck tour. Cross another item off your bucket list and surprise your loved one with this nerve-wracking adventure in the great outdoors of Big Bear.
5. Have a couples' massage at Altitudes Massage & Spa
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Relax, Play at Lake, Ski and Repeat
Posted by Altitudes Massage & Spa on Saturday, March 7, 2020
Rejuvenate yourself by going for a relaxing couples’ massage with your spouse at fabulous Altitudes Massage & Spa. This well-known spa facility in Big Bear Lake offers soothing massages and rejuvenating spa treatments to couples in the same unit. Get rid of all your stress by receiving a calming head massage. Experience fragrant aromatherapy, a refreshing massage with hot stones, and relaxing foot reflexology at this Big Bear Lake romantic activity. Choose either champagne or hot tea to make it a pleasant experience with romance in the air. Delicious assorted chocolates and lip-smacking chocolate-covered fresh strawberries are sure to please you and your beloved one.
Altitudes Massage & Spa
Address: 42184 Moonridge Rd #4, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States
Website: Altitudes Massage & Spa
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 5pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 10am - 4pm
Price: 200 - 400 USD
6. Tour the charming Pine Knot Village
Make your sabbatical with your dear one in the Big Bear Lake more romantic by visiting delightful Pine Knot Village. Attend an entertaining theater performance at The Cave, an outstanding entertainment venue here. Tour the fascinating Pine Knot Village with your beloved spouse and shop for a range of attractive gifts, such as cooking accessories, elegant outfits, lovely souvenirs, and many more. As you get tired of exploring the place, enjoy relishing fresh and delicious seafood and ethnic delicacies at the restaurants here.
Pine Knot Village
Address: Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, USA
7. Have dinner at The Pines Lakefront
Delight your spouse with an unparalleled lake-view, candlelit dining experience by making a reservation for dinner at The Pines Lakefront. The restaurant is famous for offering delicious food, an exceptionally beautiful venue, and some of the finest wines of California. Find sautéed mushrooms, lip-smacking soups, fresh salads, a variety of pastas, numerous chicken delicacies, fresh and tasty seafood, and soul-satisfying desserts among its menu. Relax by the fire and eat leisurely admiring the beautiful views of the lake.
The Pines Lakefront
Address: 350 Alden Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States
Website: The Pines Lakefront
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 12pm - 8pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 8pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
8. Have a fun night out at Peppercorn Grille
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you are visiting Big Bear Lake on your anniversary, choose to dine at Peppercorn Grille, an outstanding American restaurant. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating that lets you enjoy a pleasant dining experience. Its elegant dining room has several cozy, private booths and tables gifting your spectacular views of the beautiful Village. It features a heated patio, which is a popular feature of the food establishment and serves as an ideal place to enjoy a glass of wine.
Peppercorn Grille
Address: 553 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States
Website: Peppercorn Grille
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm
9. Enjoy a few drinks at Club Bombay
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you are looking to hang out with your loved one in a lounge that plays live music, plan to visit Club Bombay. This warm, inviting lounge in the Big Bear Lake is a fantastic place to unwind. Order your favorite refreshments and enjoy listening to the ear-pleasing live music at this cozy place. Sit with your spouse beside a fireplace and spend some pleasant, relaxing time.
Club Bombay
Address: 672 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 2pm - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 1am; Sun: 12pm - 12am
10. Kayak at Boulder Bay Park
Open since 2010, beautiful Boulder Bay Park in this Californian city greets you to spend a pleasant time with your beloved partner in nature. It offers you plenty of attractions and enjoyable activities such as fishing and picnicking. If you love to kayak, do not miss the fantastic opportunity to experience the thrill of kayaking on the waters of this Big Bear attraction for couples.
Boulder Bay Park
Address: 39148 CA-18, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States
Website: Boulder Bay Park
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 7:30am - 9pm; Sun: 7:30am - 6pm
11. Watch a movie at Village Theaters North
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you are longing to watch an entertaining movie with your dear one when holidaying in Big Bear Lake, Village Theaters North awaits you. The theater is a popular attraction that greets plenty of spectators to view a variety of recreational shows. Buy an advance ticket for your favorite show, sit back in your seat leisurely, and enjoy viewing a fantastic movie.
Village Theaters North
Address: 602 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States
Website: Village Theaters North
Opening hours: Varies
Price: 10 USD
12. Visit the incredible Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Big Bear Alpine Zoo on Wednesday, 27 November 2019
Do not miss visiting marvelous Big Bear Alpine Zoo when vacationing with your spouse. It’s one of the only existing two Alpine zoos present in the country, and it is famous for its expertise in rehabilitation and the release of the local Alpine species. Get to watch incredible wildlife, such as bald eagles, the snow leopard, black bears, snowy arctic foxes, and many more endemic animals.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Address: 43285 Goldmine Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States
Website: Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 12 USD per adult
13. Ski the slopes with your lover
Big Bear is home to some of the best skiing in southern California and just looking at those mountains, it should come as no surprise. Luckily Big Bear has you covered if it’s your first time on skis or if you’re an experienced shredder! Big Bear’s two biggest ski and snowboarding hotspots are Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. Don’t have your own board? No problem! Equipment is available for rental at each location. Big Bear’s mountains cover a wide space packed with jumps, rails and beautiful sights while you’re heading down that mountain.
Skiing in Big Bear
Address: P.O. Box 77, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Reserve a ski lesson
14. Go cross country skiing and snowshoeing with your beau
Just because it’s the winter and there is snow on the ground, doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time. If down hill skiing isn’t for you, enjoy the trails around Big Bear Lake with some cross country skiing or snowshoeing. Marvelous snow capped vistas and landscapes are just waiting for you to put your footprint in the snow. If you don’t have your own, Goldsmith’s Sports has you covered for rentals.
Cross Country Ski
Address: 42071 Big Bear Boulevard, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Goldsmith’s Sports
15. Go hiking and horseback riding in spring
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Spring is the perfect time to head outdoors! As the trees start getting their leaves and flowers start to bloom, that’s the best time to admire the beautiful surroundings! Going for a hike is a popular activity for people who want to spend some time around Big Bear because not only will you be able to see all the beauty nature has to offer, but hiking is also something suitable for all ages, so bring the family! If hiking isn’t your thing, Big Bear also offers alternative ways to sight see, like horseback riding.
16. Enjoy great views on the Scenic Sky Chair
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Big Bear and its environs are known for its lush mountains and beautiful landscape. So if hiking is your thing, lace up those hiking boots and hit the trails, you won’t regret the view! Of course if you’re feeling a little on the “I’d rather relax” side, ride the sky chair at snow summit. It has all the benefits of the panoramic views without the leg pain the next morning.
Scenic Sky Chair
Address: 880 Summit Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Scenic Sky Chair
17. Take a helicopter ride
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We sure do love flying over these mountains #bigbear #visitbigbear #bigbearhelicopters #helicoptertour #bigbearlake...
Posted by Helicopter Big Bear on Friday, August 25, 2023
With all this talk about beautiful scenery and seeing the gorgeous sights around Big Bear Lake, why not consider the ultimate bird’s eye view from a helicopter! Perfect for a special occasion like birthdays or anniversaries, a helicopter ride around the lake is sure to be a fun time.
Helicopter Big Bear
Address: 501 Valley Blvd., Big Bear City, CA 92314
Website: Helicopter Big Bear
18. Hit the lake in the summer months
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
It’s the summer in California so that means there is going to be nothing but beautiful warm days ahead. Big Bear Lake has you covered for cooling off or even just enjoying some time by the lake. Holloway Marina has you covered if you want to park your RV by the lake and also has available amenities for renting boats, fishing equipment and much more. Big Bear Lake also has some great fishing and charters are available to help you reel ‘em in!
Holloway's Marina & RV Park
Address: 398 Edgemoor Road, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Holloway’s Marina & RV Park
Big Bear Watersports School
Address: 439 Pine Knot Ave., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Big Bear Watersports School
19. Have a fun day at Big Bear Funplex
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
It’s the fall, maybe it’s getting a little chilly outside and you’re looking for something to do indoors that’s fun for everyone. Why not try the Arcade! The Big Bear Funplex is great for the whole family and not only features awesome arcade games but an indoor skiing rink, as well as lazer-tag! Relive your childhood together with your significant other on the rink, and make sure to get a few fun photos for posterity!
The arcade offers a perfect time if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Big Bear Funplex
Address: 40679 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Big Bear Funplex
20. Go-karting at Big Bear Speedway Go Karts
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Feel the wind hit your face as you speed down the track in your go-kart! This one’s for the thrill seeking speed demons among your family or friends. The Big Bear Speedway is great for an afternoon of racing against the clock to try and break your record. 25 USD gets you a valid membership for a year.
The activity is ideal for couples who want a fun break.
Big Bear Speedway Go Karts
Address: 42825 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States
Website: Big Bear Speedway
21. Go golfing at Bear Mountain Golf Course
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If the both of you love golfing, pack your golf bag and get your caddy ready because Big Bear Mountain golf course is a perfect way to spend a summer afternoon. Big Bear Mountain golf course is an ideally manicured 9-hole course with the San Bernardino mountain range as a brilliant backdrop.
Bear Mountain Golf Course
Address: 43101 Goldmine Dr., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Bear Mountain Golf Course
A romantic vacation in Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake is indeed an enchanting city ideal to spend quality time with your loved one. So, if you are planning romantic holidays in this fascinating city, make sure that you enjoy all these romantic things to do in Big Bear Lake, California, and make lovely memories to cherish for a lifetime.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
