6 Best Places To Hangout In Big Bear Lake, California

Big Bear Lake’s best hangouts bring the mountain charm year-round—whether you're here for snow, sun, or that in-between weather. These are the top places people actually go to chill out in Big Bear Lake.

The Village at Big Bear Lake

If you’re heading to Big Bear and wondering where everyone goes to eat, shop, and just stroll around—it’s The Village. Think pine-lined streets with fairy lights, boutique shops, and plenty of fire pits during the colder months. There’s something comforting about wandering into a local candy shop with a hot cocoa in hand or grabbing a burger after a morning at the slopes.

Why People Love Hanging Out at The Village

• Year-round charm with decorated streets during holidays and crisp patios in summer
• Dozens of locally-owned restaurants, coffee spots, and pubs all within walking distance
• Outdoor seating, live music, and weekend markets make it super walkable and relaxing
• Fire pits, heaters, and cozy vibes make it a perfect place to warm up in fall and winter

Things to Do in The Village

• Grab coffee from Moonridge Coffee or Dank Donuts, then walk around window shopping
• Enjoy dinner with a view at 572 Social or Peppercorn Grille
• Stop in for craft cocktails at Oakside or relax with a local beer at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company
• Visit during holiday weekends for light shows, live music, or car shows

Boulder Bay Park

Boulder Bay is easily one of the best chill spots in Big Bear, especially in the warmer months. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see families picnicking, couples kayaking, and photographers trying to capture that perfect lake reflection. The massive boulders at the water’s edge give it a unique look that makes this place feel like a postcard.

Why Boulder Bay is a Top Big Bear Hangout

• Perfect lakeside setting for relaxing with unbeatable mountain reflections
• Plenty of grassy space and benches for reading, napping, or people-watching
• Paddleboard, kayak, or canoe rentals nearby for getting on the water
• Quiet mornings and golden hour views—especially pretty in May through October

Things to Do at Boulder Bay

• Bring a blanket and picnic under the pines
• Launch a kayak or paddleboard right from the bay
• Snap photos from the rocky edges of the water
• Visit in fall for leaf color reflecting off the lake’s calm surface

Big Bear Lake Brewing Company

For a laid-back hangout with great food, craft beer, and solid mountain pub vibes, Big Bear Lake Brewing is the go-to. It's right in the Village, and it strikes a nice balance between cozy and lively—ideal for lunch after hiking or kicking back with friends in the evening.

Why Big Bear Brewing is Worth the Stop

• Locally-brewed beers with rotating seasonal taps
• Cozy indoor seating with mountain lodge-style wood décor
• Popular with both locals and visitors for its comfort food and friendly service
• Nice atmosphere year-round—especially fun in winter after snow activities

Things to Do at Big Bear Brewing

• Try a beer flight with seasonal brews
• Order the fan-favorite Big Bear Bacon Burger
• Hang out on their patio with live music on select weekends
• Watch sports or chat with locals around the bar

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain

This one’s part fun, part nostalgic throwback—and surprisingly a really fun hangout spot, especially for groups or families. The alpine slide, mini-golf, and mountain coaster make it feel like an old-school amusement park tucked into the pines.

Why Alpine Slide is More Than Just a Kids' Spot

• Home to Big Bear’s only bobsled-style alpine slide—open year-round
• Fun for kids and adults who want something different to do
• Cool in summer and snowy fun in winter with inner tube runs
• The kind of place where you hang out longer than expected just soaking in the fun

Things to Do at Alpine Slide

• Race your friends on the alpine slide
• Hit the mini-golf course under tall pines
• Visit during winter months for snow tubing
• Try the mining adventure or ride the new mountain coaster

Castle Rock Trail

This hike is short but steep, and the payoff is one of the best lookout points in Big Bear. Castle Rock is more than just a hike—it’s a hangout with a view. People bring snacks, relax at the top, and stay a while. If you're looking for a casual adventure that ends with a place to chill, this is it.

Why Castle Rock is a Favorite Big Bear Hangout

• Gorgeous panoramic views of the lake from the rocky summit
• Short distance (about 2.6 miles round trip) but worth every step
• Ideal for golden hour photos or sunrise hikes
• Feels like a local’s secret, even though it’s super accessible

Things to Do at Castle Rock

• Hike up early in the morning or right before sunset
• Bring a blanket and snack while soaking up the views
• Take photos from the ledge overlooking Big Bear Lake
• Hike during late spring or early fall for mild weather and clear skies

Wyatt’s Grill & Saloon at the Convention Center

Big Bear’s local country bar, Wyatt’s is the place to go when you want to kick back with live music, dancing, and down-home food. It's got a fun, casual vibe and hosts everything from line dancing nights to family-friendly BBQs.

Why Wyatt’s is a Go-To Hangout in Big Bear

• Live music and line dancing every week
• Big portions of comfort food and a massive saloon-style space
• Locals love it—one of the most authentic Big Bear experiences
• Feels like a party you just stumbled into—especially on weekends

Things to Do at Wyatt’s

• Go on a Friday or Saturday night for live music and dancing
• Try the BBQ platters or country-fried favorites
• Join in the line dancing or just enjoy the show
• Visit during events like Oktoberfest for extra fun

If you’re heading to the mountains and looking for the best hangouts in Big Bear Lake, these spots are where the real fun happens—whether you're grabbing a coffee in The Village, chilling by the lake at Boulder Bay, or hiking up to Castle Rock for sunset. No matter the season, there's always a good place to sit back, enjoy the views, and really feel like you're in the mountains.