Located just two hours from Los Angeles and Palm Springs, Big Bear has long been a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. The quaint city is best known for its many world-class ski resorts including Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. It’s no wonder why thousands of adrenaline junkies flock to Big Bear to ride down its famous slopes each winter.
But there’s far more to Big Bear than just skiing! It’s nestled on the banks of shimmering Big Bear Lake and surrounded by the scenic San Bernardino National Forest. From kayaking to fishing to hiking, there are so many things to do in Big Bear during the summer.
Plus Big Bear Lake Village boasts plenty of excellent restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. There really is something for everyone!
Big Bear is a popular destination for those who want an action-packed vacation. Whether you’re planning a ski trip with the family, a special romantic retreat, or a fun-filled weekend away with friends, there’s no doubt you’ll find a unique Airbnb in Big Bear that’s perfect for you. From cozy A-frame cabins to luxurious log houses and sprawling lakeside estates, the options are plentiful.
Finding the perfect vacation home might seem overwhelming, so we’ve picked out 12 of the best Airbnbs in Big Bear to make your decision just a little bit easier!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).
Top 10 Things To Do in Big Bear
- Go skiing or snowboarding at Big Bear’s most famous ski resorts: Snow Summit, Bear Mountain, and Snow Valley.
- Hop in a boat and go fishing at “Trout Triangle”. Located on the west side of the lake, this is the best fishing spot on Big Bear Lake.
- Fill up on a hearty breakfast at the local favorite Grizzly Manor Cafe. Be sure to try their famous biscuits and gravy!
- Take a hike along Castle Rock Trail. The moderate 2.6-mile hike is dog friendly and offers stunning views of Big Bear Lake.
- Spot black bears, snow leopards, and arctic foxes at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo. This zoo is one of only two Alpine zoos in the US!
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a scenic lunch at Boulder Bay Park, which is known for its giant rock formations.
- Head into the quaint Pine Knot Village – home to some of the best shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues in town.
- Rent a kayak and explore the beautiful coves and calm waters of Big Bear Lake – one of the best things to do in California.
- Grab a burger and a brew at the legendary Murray’s Saloon & Eatery. This spot is infamous for its boozy karaoke nights!
- Go for a bike ride along the 3.2-mile Alpine Pedal Path. If you’re visiting in the winter or spring you might even spot bald eagles!
Why Stay in an Airbnb in Big Bear
Staying in an Airbnb in Big Bear has plenty of advantages. First of all, you’ll have the chance to live like a local, instead of staying in a touristy hotel. People in Big Bear are extremely friendly and welcoming so you’ll get a lot of insider information from your Airbnb host. Many go the extra mile and offer complimentary wine and snacks upon arrival!
The selection of unique Airbnbs in Big Bear is extensive. You can opt for a romantic retreat nestled in the forest, a luxury cabin on the lake, or an adorable cottage in the heart of town.
By choosing to stay in an Airbnb, you’ll get far more value compared to staying at a hotel. Most of Big Bear’s vacation homes are much nicer and more spacious than your average hotel room. Plus you’ll have a kitchen so you can save on costs by dining at home!
If you are traveling as a large group, an Airbnb will likely cost less per person than paying for multiple hotel rooms. This is especially true during holidays and the peak summer and winter months when tourism in Big Bear is at its height.
Search Hotels and Vacation Rentals in Big Bear
The 12 Best Airbnbs in Big Bear
Best Big Bear Airbnbs for Couples and Solo Travelers
1. Funky A-Frame Cabin Near Bear Mountain
Located one mile from both Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, this adorable 1960s A-frame cabin is perfect for a couple’s retreat or solo travelers looking to get away from it all.
With vaulted exposed wood ceilings and a rustic stone fireplace, the living room is about as cozy as it gets. The large flat-screen has Apple TV, Netflix, and Hulu so it’s perfect for a chilled out movie night. The bedroom has a plush queen bed where you can get a comfy night’s sleep after a day on the slopes.
The kitchen might be small, but it’s fully outfitted with everything you need to cook delicious meals at home. The Airbnb hosts even go above and beyond and provide you with a complimentary basket full of snacks, wine, and drinks.
Unwind with a glass of wine on the large back porch where you can relax on the Adirondack chairs or grill up some burgers on the charcoal Weber grill. The back porch leads directly to the trails of the San Bernardino National Forest, which boasts plenty of hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and sledding opportunities!
2. Nordik Eskape: Stylish Scandinavian Treetop Home
This impeccably decorated 1-bedroom home is tucked away in a quiet part of town just four miles from Bear Mountain Resort. Expect to find contemporary furniture and cute decor throughout this incredible vacation rental.
The 22-foot cathedral ceilings have floor-to-ceiling windows allowing plenty of natural sunlight to flood into the living room. French doors open up to a spacious deck which has a deluxe grill and excellent views of the towering trees and snow-covered mountains.
With a rustic wood-burning fireplace, a comfy couch piled with pillows and faux fur blankets, and a large smart TV, the living room is the perfect place to put your feet up after a long day on the town.
You can prepare delicious meals and snacks in the immaculately clean kitchen. The space is outfitted with cute vintage amenities and everything you need to cook at home. The popular local store Community Market is just two blocks away in case you want to go grocery shopping or get picnic supplies.
Head upstairs where you’ll find a stylish bedroom with a comfy queen bed, a workstation, a private deck, and a modern en-suite.
3. Tiny “Love Shack” with Hot Tub
This tiny cabin has been affectionately dubbed the “Love Shack” because it’s the perfect romantic retreat for couples. The entire home has been recently remodeled so everything is brand new and top-of-the-line.
The owners designed this Airbnb to give you a 5-star villa experience. For an extra fee, you can even use their concierge service to surprise your loved one with a bouquet, purchase ski passes, or do your grocery shopping!
You’ll find thoughtful touches throughout this 1-bedroom vacation home including welcome goodies, his and her robes, and soothing bath bombs. You’ll love the super stylish living area where you can curl up with a good book on the plush couch, sip your morning coffee in the breakfast nook, and warm up with the electric fireplace.
The picture-perfect kitchen features butcher-block countertops, a farm sink, and everything you need to cook at home. A sliding barn door leads into the bedroom where you’ll find a soft queen bed with a Tempur-Pedic mattress and an UGG comforter.
The private patio boasts a grill, a propane fire pit, a space heater, and a hot tub that’s perfect for relaxing on chilly evenings. If that’s not enough, this vacation home is just steps from a national forest and dozens of hiking trails.
4. Luxury Studio Suite in Sugarloaf
This rustic studio is located in a quiet neighborhood in Sugarloaf and is the perfect pick for couples or solo travelers craving a relaxing getaway. The space may be cozy but it has everything you could ever want in a comfortable home base for your trip to Big Bear.
This stylish studio space features sleek hardwood floors, a queen bed, and all sorts of funky art and signs on the walls. With wood counters, a basin sink, and hanging plants, even the bathroom is adorable! The kitchenette features a coffee maker, complimentary coffee and tea, a mini-fridge, and a microwave so you can heat up leftovers.
The wood-burning stove will keep you warm during cold winter nights. Wrap yourself in a blanket, curl up in one of the leather butterfly chairs, and have a lazy night of Netflix on the 50-inch flat-screen.
This Airbnb is also pet-friendly if you want to travel with your furry friend. You can let your dog roam around in the private fenced-in yard where you’ll also find a hot tub!
Best Big Bear Airbnbs for Small Groups and Families
5. The Kitchy Cabin: Retro Mid-Century Home Near Snow Summit
The 3-bedroom Kitchy Cabin is located just minutes from Big Bear Boulevard and Snow Summit, so it’s ideal if you want to hit the slopes or have a night on the town. This entire 2-story Airbnb is decorated with modern furniture, retro décor, and luxury trimmings.
With a colorful couch and chairs, a vintage fireplace, and towering vaulted ceilings, you’ll love the picturesque living room. It opens up to the chef’s kitchen that boasts Samsung appliances and custom shelves loaded with handmade plates and vintage copper mugs. The large breakfast bar makes it easy to socialize while cooking for the group.
The master suite features adorable A-frame ceilings, a fireplace, a luxury king-size Saatva mattress, and an en-suite with a standalone soaking tub. French doors lead to a private balcony where you can enjoy your morning coffee from the plush seats.
6. The FireFly: Adorable Cabin in the Woods
This chic cabin is centrally located in an exclusive neighborhood just two blocks from the Bear Mountain and Snow Summit shuttle and three miles from Big Bear Lake Village. With two bedrooms, this Big Bear Airbnb is ideal for two couples or small families looking to have an adventurous vacation.
The stone fireplace, wood paneling, and picture windows with tree views give off cozy cabin vibes. You can hunker down with a good book on the modern sofa, enjoy leisurely meals at the breakfast bar, or have a chill movie night with the large smart TV.
You’ll love the luxury kitchen. It’s sleek black paint job, black appliances, and black exposed beams are totally unique and it has everything you need to cook up gourmet meals. If you want to buy coffee and breakfast sandwiches for the group, Moonridge Coffee Company is a few blocks away.
Downstairs you’ll find a stylish bedroom with a king bed. There are a queen and two single beds in the upstairs, loft-style bedroom. This vacation rental is pet-friendly so you can even travel with your pups. They’ll love running around the large tree-studded property!
7. Cozy Cabin in Sugarloaf
If you’re looking for a quintessential Big Bear cabin, this 2-bedroom vacation rental is the place! Located in the heart of Sugarloaf, world-class skiing is just minutes away.
The open-plan living area features wood floors, vaulted ceilings, and a contemporary couch. From teal floor cushions to patterned area rugs to soft blankets, you’ll love all the cool accents. There’s even a foosball table if you’re feeling like some friendly competition!
The simple kitchen features stylish wood countertops, a subway tile backsplash, and everything you need to prepare meals at home. If you’re craving a burger and a brew, Kallans Bar and Grill is right down the road.
Both bedrooms have queen beds, designer bedding, and funky accent walls. The sofa has a pullout bed so this Airbnb can accommodate up to six guests. It’s ideal for a group of close friends or small families.
You’ll love the large backyard where you can grill up a meal and dine under the stars at the picnic table. And the hot tub is great for soothing your aching muscles after a day of snowboarding, mountain biking, or hiking!
8. Luxurious Retreat with Game Room
With so many fun amenities, this luxurious 3-bedroom cabin is the perfect spot for entertaining a large group of family and friends. With a whopping nine beds, this Airbnb can sleep up to 13 people.
With towering cathedral ceilings, beautiful hardwood floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows, you’ll be wowed by the great room. You can play a game of pool or shuffleboard, relax with a glass of wine on the huge sectional sofa, and watch sports or a movie on the smart TV.
The gourmet kitchen is a dream come true for the chef in the group. With tons of counter space, high-end stainless steel appliances, and a stone-clad breakfast bar, you can cook up a holiday meal while socializing with your friends and family. And you can dine as a group at the 8-person dining table.
Kids will love the loft game room which features a foosball table, a poker table, tons of board games, and a gaming console. Head to the backyard where you can gather around the fire-pit, soak in the 8-person hot tub, play ping-pong, or host a barbeque meal.
You’ll never get bored at this incredible Big Bear Airbnb!
Best Big Bear Airbnbs for Large Groups and Events
9. Lovely Lakehouse on Gilner Point
If you’re looking for a luxurious estate on the lake, this is the best Airbnb in Big Bear. The home even has a private two-slip boat dock so you can easily cruise around Big Bear Lake. And the lakefront also has a private sandy beach for lounging!
With unobstructed lake views, you’ll love the sprawling backyard. In addition to its private dock and beach, the yard features an 8-person hot tub, a propane barbeque, a wraparound deck, and plenty of sitting areas with lake views. You might even spot bald eagles soaring through the sky!
With five rustic yet luxurious bedrooms, this vacation home can accommodate up to 13 guests so it’s an excellent option for an unforgettable reunion with family and friends. The split-level living room is perfect for entertaining large groups. You can lounge around on the overstuffed chenille sofa, have a movie night with the giant flat-screen, or warm up by the grand fireplace.
The chef’s kitchen boasts top of the line appliances, granite countertops, and a large island. With a walk-in pantry and tons of counter space, whipping up lavish feasts for the group will be a cinch.
This vacation home is located near “Trout Triangle” and Castle Rock Trail, the best fishing and hiking spots in the area.
10. Expansive Log Cabin on Big Bear Lake
Perched right on the lake near Big Bear’s world-class ski resorts, this enormous log cabin is perfect for both summer and winter vacations. This 5-bedroom Airbnb can sleep up to 16 guests so it’s a great choice for large groups.
With towering vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, you can marvel at the lake views from the comfort of your living room. The stone fireplace, plush leather couches and chairs, and log accents just add to the rustic cabin ambiance.
The living area opens up to the luxury kitchen. The rugged wood breakfast bar is the perfect spot for brunching or socializing. With a large island, endless cooking supplies, and high-end appliances and cookware, the kitchen is every cook’s dream come true.
This massive 5,000-square-foot home also has a cozy second living room, which is a nice feature for large groups. You’ll also find a separate game room with a pool table, shuffleboard, a dartboard, a poker table, and a full wet bar. You’ll have endless entertainment options!
Head out to the backyard where you can grill up some steaks, dine alfresco, soak in the hot tub, or hop on a jet ski at your private dock!
11. Boho-Chic Farm Stay at Calico Farm
You know you’re staying in one of the best Airbnbs in Big Bear when it’s listed on Goop as one of the “8 Most Idyllic Mountain Escapes“! This picture-perfect white farmhouse is set on four private acres in the San Bernardino Mountains. You might feel like you’re worlds away, but Big Bear Lake is a short 10-minute drive away.
This quaint 4-bedroom vacation home can sleep up to 10 guests. Surrounded by nature and plenty of hiking trails, it’s the perfect choice for an ultra-relaxing getaway. Plus kids will love exploring the property’s barn, chicken coop, and corral!
The owners have thought through every detail of this stylish Airbnb. Expect to find sun-drenched rooms, modern furniture, vintage decor, and boho-chic accents throughout. The owners even use ethical products like zero-emission mattresses from Brentwood Home, bedding from Parachute Home, and bath products from True Botanicals.
You can sip your morning cup of coffee on the porch, read a book in the crochet hammock, do some stretching in the yoga room, or warm-up around the vintage wood-burning stove in the living room. Also whip up organic meals in the chef’s kitchen and enjoy alfresco dinners on the patio.
12. Luxury Lakehouse in the Heart of Big Bear
Located right in the heart of Big Bear, this modern lakeside home is the perfect choice for a fun-filled vacation with family and friends. Not only is it situated right on the lake, but it’s a 5-minute stroll to all of the village’s best restaurants, bars, and grocery stores.
With five comfy bedrooms, this unique Airbnb can accommodate up to 16 guests. Inside you’ll find all sorts of cool amenities to keep the entire group entertained. There’s even an enormous game room with a pool table, an arcade console, a fully stocked bar, and a separate poker room.
The new leather reclining sofas, plush green carpet, and giant flat-screen make the living room the perfect spot for a relaxing movie night. Head into the spacious kitchen, which is fully outfitted with everything you need to cook at home. You can even enjoy formal meals with lake views at the dining table.
Unwind after a long day adventuring around Big Bear on the two large decks – they boast Restoration Hardware furniture, a fire pit, and a hot tub. The owners will provide you with kayaks and paddleboards in the summer months. Just jump into the water from your own private dock!
That’s it – 12 of the best Airbnbs in Big Bear! Do you have a favorite vacation rental in Big Bear? Let us know in the comments below.
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