✓ Accommodations ✓ Flights ✓ Rental Cars
Did you know that Big Bear Lake boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually while maintaining four distinct seasons? This alpine gem in Southern California sits at 6,752 feet elevation, making it a unique year-round playground where you can ski in the morning and kayak in the afternoon during certain times of the year. Boulder Bay, with its distinctive rock formations jutting from the water, offers some of the most photographed and beloved landscapes in the region.
Getting to Big Bear Boulder Bay
Located approximately 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake is accessible via three main routes: Highway 330 (the most direct), Highway 18 (safest during snow), and Highway 38 (less trafficked). The journey typically takes 2-2.5 hours from LA, though travel time can vary significantly based on traffic and weather conditions.
Plan Your Journey to Big Bear
Ready to experience the mountain magic? Book your transportation now and save!
If traveling during winter months (November through April), be prepared with snow chains for your vehicle, as they’re often required by law. The Boulder Bay area is located on the western end of Big Bear Lake, approximately 2 miles from the Big Bear Dam on Highway 18.
Best Time to Visit Big Bear Boulder Bay
Summer (June-August)
Summer brings warm days (average highs of 77°F) and cool nights (lows around 45°F). This is prime time for water activities at Boulder Bay, hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying outdoor concerts. The lake is fully accessible, making it perfect for boating, fishing, and water sports.
Fall (September-November)
Fall offers spectacular foliage, fewer crowds, and pleasant temperatures. This is an excellent time for photography at Boulder Bay, with the colorful leaves creating stunning reflections on the water. Hiking trails are less crowded, and fishing is particularly good during this season.
Winter (December-March)
Winter transforms Big Bear into a snowy wonderland with temperatures ranging from mid-40s to mid-20s. While Boulder Bay itself becomes a peaceful snow-covered landscape, nearby ski resorts come alive. Snow Summit and Bear Mountain offer excellent skiing and snowboarding just minutes away.
Spring (April-May)
Spring brings wildflowers, waterfalls, and gradually warming temperatures. As the snow melts, hiking trails reopen and the landscape turns lush green. This shoulder season offers good deals on accommodations and fewer tourists while still providing access to most activities.
Find Your Perfect Stay in Big Bear
From cozy cabins to lakefront lodges, book your ideal accommodation now!
Top Things to Do at Boulder Bay Park
Boulder Bay Park, constructed in 2010, has quickly become one of Big Bear’s most beloved spots. The park’s distinctive feature is the massive granite boulders that emerge from the lake, creating a unique landscape that’s both photogenic and fun to explore.
Photography
The iconic rock formations make Boulder Bay one of the most photographed spots in Big Bear. Visit during golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) for the most dramatic lighting and reflections on the water.
Picnicking
The park offers several picnic tables with stunning views of the lake and boulders. Bring your lunch and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. The grassy areas are perfect for spreading out a blanket during warmer months.
Fishing
Boulder Bay is a popular fishing spot where you can catch trout, bass, and catfish. The rocks provide excellent fishing spots, though you’ll need a valid California fishing license, which can be purchased in town.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Navigating around the massive boulders by kayak or paddleboard offers a unique perspective of the bay. Several rental companies deliver equipment directly to Boulder Bay for your convenience.
Wildlife Viewing
The area attracts diverse wildlife, including bald eagles (November-April), osprey, herons, and various waterfowl. Bring binoculars for the best viewing experience.
Winter Activities
When snow falls, Boulder Bay transforms into a winter playground perfect for snowball fights, building snowmen, and even sledding on some of the smaller slopes near the parking area.
Experience Boulder Bay’s Natural Beauty
Book a guided tour to discover the best spots and learn about the area’s fascinating geology!
Water Activities on Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake offers 22 miles of shoreline and 3,000 acres of surface area for endless water adventures. The lake is particularly accessible from Boulder Bay, making it an ideal starting point for your aquatic explorations.
Pontoon Rentals
Renting a pontoon boat is one of the most popular ways to experience Big Bear Lake. These spacious vessels are perfect for families and groups, allowing you to explore the entire lake at your leisure. Holloway’s Marina offers convenient rentals near Boulder Bay.
Kayaking & Canoeing
For a more intimate lake experience, kayaks and canoes allow you to navigate close to the shoreline and around Boulder Bay’s famous rock formations. Paddles and Pedals offers quality rentals with delivery options to your preferred launch point.
Jet Skiing
Thrill-seekers can rent jet skis from several marinas around the lake. The open water away from Boulder Bay provides plenty of space to zoom across the lake while enjoying panoramic mountain views.
Fishing Charters
Big Bear Lake is stocked with trout and is home to bass, catfish, and other species. Charter services like Cantrell Guide Service offer expert-led fishing trips with all equipment provided, perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Lake Tours
For a relaxing experience, book a spot on the Miss Liberty Paddlewheel Tour Boat or Big Bear Queen Lake Tours. These narrated cruises provide fascinating information about the lake’s history and ecology while you enjoy the scenery.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
SUP has become increasingly popular on Big Bear Lake. The calm waters of Boulder Bay are ideal for beginners, while more experienced paddleboarders can venture further into the lake for a more challenging workout.
Best Hiking Trails Near Boulder Bay
The San Bernardino National Forest surrounding Big Bear Lake offers numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. These trails are particularly beautiful during spring wildflower season and fall foliage.
Castle Rock Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.7 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 820 feet
This popular trail starts near Boulder Bay and rewards hikers with spectacular panoramic views of the lake. The trail culminates at a distinctive rock formation that’s perfect for photos. Best hiked in early morning to avoid crowds.
Pine Knot Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Starting in Big Bear Village, this well-maintained trail offers beautiful forest scenery and culminates with expansive views of the San Bernardino Mountains and desert beyond. Particularly stunning during fall when the leaves change color.
Alpine Pedal Path
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 5.2 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
This paved path along the north shore is perfect for families, seniors, and those with mobility concerns. The path offers continuous lake views and passes through Stanfield Marsh Wildlife Preserve, an excellent spot for bird watching.
Explore Big Bear’s Natural Beauty
Book a guided hiking tour to discover hidden gems and learn about local ecology!
Winter Fun Near Boulder Bay
When winter blankets Big Bear with snow, the area transforms into Southern California’s premier mountain playground. While Boulder Bay itself becomes a serene snow-covered landscape, the surrounding area offers numerous cold-weather activities.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Big Bear boasts two excellent ski resorts: Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, collectively known as Big Bear Mountain Resort. With over 400 acres of skiable terrain, 26 lifts, and 55 runs ranging from beginner to advanced, there’s something for every skill level.
Snow Tubing
For family-friendly winter fun, head to Big Bear Snow Play or Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain for snow tubing. These dedicated tubing parks feature groomed lanes and conveyor lifts to take you back to the top, ensuring maximum fun with minimal effort.
Snowshoeing
Explore the winter landscape at your own pace with snowshoeing. Several trails around Boulder Bay are perfect for snowshoeing, offering peaceful forest experiences and stunning snow-covered vistas. Rentals are available at several sporting goods stores in town.
Boulder Bay Park itself becomes a wonderful spot for snow play after fresh snowfall. The open areas are perfect for building snowmen, having snowball fights, or simply enjoying the serene winter landscape. The contrast of snow-covered boulders against the partially frozen lake creates a magical winter scene that’s perfect for photography.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Big Bear offers numerous attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for family vacations. Beyond the natural beauty of Boulder Bay, these attractions provide entertainment and educational experiences.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
This unique rehabilitation facility is one of only two alpine zoos in the country. It houses injured, orphaned, and imprinted wildlife, many of which are being rehabilitated for release. Visitors can see black bears, snow leopards, wolves, and many other alpine species in naturalistic habitats.
The Village
Big Bear Village offers charming shops, restaurants, and seasonal events. The pedestrian-friendly area is perfect for strolling, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying an ice cream or hot chocolate depending on the season. During holidays, the village is beautifully decorated.
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
This year-round attraction features California’s only authentic bobsled experience. After riding the scenic chairlift up the mountain, visitors control their own speed down the quarter-mile track. The facility also offers go-karts, a new Soaring Eagle zipline, and mini-golf.
Create Unforgettable Family Memories
Book your family-friendly activities in advance to secure spots during peak seasons!
Essential Tips for Visiting Boulder Bay
Weather Considerations
- Big Bear experiences significant temperature drops at night, even in summer. Always bring layers.
- At 6,752 feet elevation, the sun is intense. Wear sunscreen year-round, even on cloudy days.
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Check weather forecasts before outdoor activities.
- Winter temperatures can drop below freezing. Proper cold-weather gear is essential from November through April.
Parking & Access
- Boulder Bay Park has a free parking lot, but it fills quickly on weekends and holidays. Arrive early.
- Roadside parking is available but limited. Never block private driveways or fire lanes.
- The park is open from sunrise to sunset daily.
- Public restrooms are available at the park but may be closed during winter months.
Wildlife Safety
- While rare, black bears do inhabit the area. Store food properly and never approach wildlife.
- Rattlesnakes may be present on trails during warmer months. Stay on designated paths.
- Never feed any wildlife, including ducks and geese at Boulder Bay.
- Keep dogs leashed at all times for their safety and to protect local wildlife.
Altitude Considerations
- The high elevation can cause mild altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and pace yourself.
- Alcohol affects you more strongly at altitude. Drink responsibly.
- UV exposure is greater at higher elevations. Wear sunglasses and reapply sunscreen frequently.
- Allow time to acclimate before strenuous activities, especially if coming from sea level.
Where to Stay Near Boulder Bay
Big Bear offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every preference and budget. Staying near Boulder Bay puts you close to both the natural beauty of the lake and convenient access to other attractions.
Lakefront Cabins
For the ultimate Big Bear experience, consider renting a lakefront cabin. These properties offer direct lake access, stunning views, and often include amenities like private docks, hot tubs, and fireplaces. Properties near Boulder Bay provide easy access to the park while maintaining a peaceful setting.
Mountain Lodges
Several lodges and resorts around Big Bear offer hotel-style accommodations with amenities like restaurants, pools, and organized activities. The Marina Riviera offers renovated rooms with lake views and is just a short drive from Boulder Bay.
Cozy Retreats
Boutique options like Noble + Proper offer unique accommodations with personalized touches. Their collection of individually designed cabins includes amenities like full kitchens, smart TVs, and shared outdoor spaces with BBQs and hammocks.
Find Your Perfect Big Bear Getaway
From lakefront cabins to mountain lodges, book your stay now for the best selection!
Experience the Magic of Boulder Bay
Boulder Bay captures the essence of what makes Big Bear special—a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and mountain charm. Whether you’re watching the sunrise cast golden light on the massive boulders, paddling through the clear waters on a summer afternoon, or photographing the snow-dusted landscape in winter, Boulder Bay offers unforgettable experiences in every season.
From the tranquil shores of the bay to the thrilling slopes of nearby ski resorts, Big Bear invites you to create your own mountain adventure. The area’s unique combination of alpine environment and Southern California sunshine creates a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and a peaceful retreat for those seeking to reconnect with nature. Pack your sense of adventure and head to Boulder Bay—where mountain magic meets lakeside serenity in one of California’s most beloved destinations.
—
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
