Why Everyone’s Heading to Big Bear Lake This Summer

  • By: Julianne Elise Beffa

Big Bear is the New Cool…

Move over, Malibu—this summer, the social set is swapping salty breezes and sandy toes for crisp mountain air, towering pines, and lakeside sunsets. That’s right: Big Bear Lake is officially having a moment. Once known mainly as a cozy winter ski destination, this charming alpine town nestled just two hours from Los Angeles is stepping into the warm-weather limelight in a big way. With an exciting mix of can’t-miss festivals, stylish new hospitality experiences, and Instagram-worthy food and views at every turn, Big Bear is redefining what it means to summer in Southern California.

From curated cycling weekends and doggie festivals to star-studded theater performances and dreamy lakeside stays, Big Bear has quickly become the season’s go-to playground for creatives, adventurers, and laid-back luxury seekers alike. And with every corner serving up its own unique blend of nature-meets-culture charm, there’s something here for every type of traveler. Whether you’re packing hiking boots, a mountain bike, or a pizza-loving pup, one thing’s clear: this mountain town is hotter than ever—and we’re not just talking about the weather.

Ready to plan your escape? Here’s your ultimate guide to why Big Bear is the coolest place to be this summer.

Puptopia Takes Over Big Bear (July 26)

Calling all dog moms, dads, and dogfluencers—your ultimate summer festival has arrived. Puptopia lands in Big Bear on July 26th, and it’s basically Coachella for canines. Expect an unFURgettable (we had to) day of adorable action with your pup in one of SoCal’s top dog-friendly destinations.

At the heart of the festival is The Pawground, featuring a massive ball pit shaped like a dog bowl and agility courses where your four-legged friend can strut their stuff through tunnels and ramps. Chill out in the K9 Lounge, a cozy hangout for dogs and their humans complete with snacks, drinks, and yes, breed meet-ups.

Need a little retail therapy? Puptopia brings together the cutest dog vendors—think stylish collars, organic treats, and matching outfits. And the fun doesn’t stop at the fest: many Big Bear restaurants have pet-friendly patios with water bowls and special menus just for pups.

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Bikes, Brews & Glow Rides: Tour de Big Bear (August 1-3)

If biking is your vibe, Tour de Big Bear is your moment. From August 1-3, Big Bear becomes the epicenter of all things cycling, with road rides, gravel routes, and a newly added Dirty Burro 50K mountain bike race for adrenaline junkies ready to conquer the rugged terrain.

Kick things off on August 1st with the free and festive Poker Ride, followed by the dazzling Glow Ride—a nighttime cruise through town lit up with neon lights, glow sticks, and costumes (yes, there are prizes). Think Burning Man on bikes.

The main event—the Tour de Big Bear Ride—rolls out on August 2nd, offering 5K to 100-mile routes for every level of rider. For off-road warriors, the Dirty Cub and Dirty Bear gravel rides deliver epic views with an edge. Hardcore MTB fan? The Dirty Burro 50K is your mountain biking playground.

Need to recover post-ride? The Recovery Ride on August 3rd is your cooldown circuit—complete with a leisurely ride and a breakfast meetup at Copper Q in The Village.

Bonus points for the Cycling Expo, a lively hub with live music, local vendors, cocktails, and even a free bike valet. Want to ride (and vibe) like a VIP? Snag the Golden Bear Pass—a $200 upgrade that includes exclusive parking, meals, lounge access, and beer tasting tickets for the fan-favorite Bikes & Brews.

Theater With Altitude: French Stewart Stars in ‘Stoneface’ (August 8-17)

Who says mountain towns can’t do high culture? This August, the Big Bear Theatre Project proves otherwise with a splashy production of Stoneface (The Rise and Fall and Rise of Buster Keaton) starring French Stewart (yes, that French Stewart from “3rd Rock from the Sun”).

Running August 8–17 at the Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center, the play is an homage to silent film legend Buster Keaton—and it’s equal parts nostalgic and thrilling. With Stewart’s acclaimed performance and direction by Jaime Robledo, Stoneface brings Old Hollywood to the mountains in a way that feels fresh, funny, and full of heart.

Even cooler? The production is set to screen classic silent films alongside the play, giving audiences a true taste of cinema’s golden age. With Big Bear’s own history steeped in film, this is the perfect mountain-meets-movie moment for anyone craving a little retro glam.

Lakeside Chic: Stay at the Hotel Marina Riviera

No summer hot spot is complete without a stylish place to crash, and Big Bear’s Hotel Marina Riviera is that girl. Perched right on the edge of the lake, this 1960s Viking lodge-turned-boutique stay has been lovingly restored by the Casetta Group, keeping the vintage soul but adding a serious dose of style.

Think: earthy tones, natural textures, mid-century vibes, and jaw-dropping lake views. With 42 renovated rooms and 6 cozy cabins (complete with kitchens and fireplaces), the Marina Riviera is perfect whether you’re a city couple escaping for the weekend or a friend group looking for that ideal summer content backdrop.

New for 2024? A private beach, fire pits, hot tub, sauna, and the kind of sunrise views that will have your followers obsessed. Plus, you’re just a five-minute stroll to Big Bear Village and a shuttle ride away from trailheads and slopes.

Après Pizza: De La Nonna Arrives in Big Bear

If your ideal summer moment includes wine, pizza, and a lakefront sunset—this is your Big Bear love story. De La Nonna, the beloved LA pizza spot, has found its second home at Hotel Marina Riviera, bringing its Italian-inspired pies and breezy hospitality to the mountains.

It’s the kind of place where the wine flows, the playlist is always vibey, and the menu leans fresh and seasonal (but trust us, you’re still getting that crispy-edged Nonna pie). Whether you’re coming off a hike or winding down after the theatre, De La Nonna is the cozy, communal hangout you’ll want to return to night after night.

Why Big Bear is the Summer’s Sleeper Hit

So why is everyone from influencers to adventure junkies heading to Big Bear right now?

It’s the vibe shift in action. Where beach towns are crowded and overpriced, Big Bear offers lake swims, forest hikes, cozy eateries, and next-level events—all with that chill mountain energy that feels equal parts nostalgic and new. It’s giving Wes Anderson meets Weekend Warrior, and we’re here for it.

Plus, with dog-friendly patios, boutique hotels, buzzy theater, and a pizza-and-pinot après scene, Big Bear is carving out its own lane as the go-to destination for cool, conscious travelers. Whether you’re making memories with your pup, pedaling through pines, or catching French Stewart under the stars, Big Bear proves you don’t need to fly to Aspen or book a beach house to have a luxury summer.

This is the summer of Big Bear. And trust us—you’ll want to be part of the story.

Plan Your Trip

Ready to escape to Big Bear? Here’s were to book:

See you at 7,000 feet—don’t forget your glow sticks, pizza cravings, and sense of adventure.

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