When Big Bear Lake comes to mind, many envision snow-dusted peaks and cozy winter escapes in the San Bernardino Mountains. But as summer unfolds, this alpine gem reveals a vibrant, sun-soaked side that rivals its cold-weather charm. With its crystalline lake, pine-fringed trails, and a community spirit that shines through events like the Fishin’ for $50K Trout Tournament, Big Bear in summer is a destination that beckons adventurers, families, and those seeking a soulful retreat. At the heart of this experience lies Hotel Marina Riviera, a reimagined lakeside lodge that blends modern luxury with mountain heritage, offering the perfect base to explore Big Bear’s warm-weather wonders.
A Lake at the Heart of Summer
Big Bear Lake, a 3,300-acre alpine reservoir, is the pulse of the region’s summer allure. Its cool, clear waters teem with rainbow trout, making it Southern California’s premier freshwater fishing destination. The lake also hosts smallmouth and largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, crappie, and even crayfish, which scuttle along rocky shores like Juniper Point and the Dam. Managed by the Big Bear Municipal Water District, the lake is regularly stocked with trout, ensuring a sustainable fishery. Anglers 16 and older need a California fishing license, easily obtained at Big Bear Sporting Goods, a local staple just half a mile from Hotel Marina Riviera, where rods, bait, and expert tips are always on hand.
Fishing is a cornerstone of Big Bear’s summer identity, and the 2025 Fishin’ for $50K Trout Derby, held on June 7th and 8th, exemplified this passion. A tradition since 1998, the Derby has drawn over 15,000 anglers chasing five tagged rainbow trout, each worth $10,000, and a $2,500 prize for the heaviest fish. In 2024, two anglers made history by landing tagged trout, ending a 26-year drought and cementing the tournament’s legendary status. This year’s event, hosted in part at Hotel Marina Riviera, was a family affair, with weight class prizes for adults and kids, plus raffles offering fishing gear and a kayak from Big Bear Sporting Goods. Discounts for first responders, military, locals, and families, along with perks for those staying at local lodgings or renting pontoons, made it inclusive and welcoming. Beyond the competition, the tournament fostered community, with weigh-ins at Pine Knot Marina and celebrations filled with laughter and shared stories.
Yet fishing is just one facet of Big Bear’s summer medley. Visitors can rent pontoons or kayaks from marinas like Holloway’s Marina or Big Bear Marina, glide across the lake on paddleboards, or jet ski through shimmering waves. Charters, led by guides like those at Lucky Bear Fishing Charters, teach novices the art of casting, while trails like the Alpine Pedal Path invite cyclists to pedal along the lake’s north shore, where bald eagles, including the beloved Jackie and Shadow, might be spotted nesting in towering pines.
Hotel Marina Riviera: Where Lakeside Meets Luxury
Anchoring the summer experience is Hotel Marina Riviera, a reimagined 1968 lodge that marries mid-century soul with contemporary elegance. Perched on the southern shore, steps from Big Bear Lake and the Village, the hotel is a gateway to adventure and a haven for relaxation. Its recent renovation has infused the property with warm wood tones, retro accents, and sleek design, from cozy fireplaces to rooms with sweeping lake and mountain views. Guests can stroll to the nearby pier, sink into beach cabanas, or gather around firepits as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow across the water. These moments, steeped in tranquility and community, embody Big Bear’s summer spirit.
The hotel’s proximity to Big Bear Village makes it an ideal base for exploring the town’s vibrant core. Just a short walk away, the Village hums with boutique shops, eateries, and wine rooms, offering everything from handcrafted souvenirs to farm-to-table meals. Whether sipping craft beer at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company or browsing tackle at Big Bear Sporting Goods, visitors feel the town’s homegrown pride, unabashedly on display via the “Made in Big Bear” slogan. Marina Riviera’s cabins across the street provide additional lodging options, blending rustic charm with modern comforts, perfect for families or groups.
A Collection of Summer Adventures
Big Bear’s summer offerings extend far beyond the lake. The San Bernardino National Forest, with its fulfilling trails, invites hikers to explore paths like the Cougar Crest Trail, where panoramic views of the lake and mountains unfold. Mountain bikers tackle routes in the Snow Summit Bike Park, while horseback riding at Baldwin Lake Stables offers a slower-paced connection to nature. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo, home to rescued wildlife, delights families, while the Big Bear Discovery Center provides eco-focused activities and insights into the region’s biodiversity. Not to mention, there’s the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain amusement park where thrill-seeking families experience the rollicking Mineshaft Coaster among other rousing attractions guaranteeing a great time. The Big Bear Mountain Resort’s Snow Summit has an underrated ride of its own in the ski lift which, notwithstanding its functional purpose, boasts spectacular views of sky-scraping trees.
Additionally, community events amplify the summer vibe. The Big Bear Lake Farmers Market at Meadow Park brings locals and visitors together with live music, local crafts, and food trucks serving everything from fish tacos to artisanal sweets. The Summer Concert Series fills the air with melodies, while narrated lake cruises aboard the Miss Liberty Paddlewheel Tour Boat offer sunset views and tales of Big Bear’s history. The Moonridge Corridor, with its eclectic shops and cafes, adds to the town’s laid-back charm, inviting leisurely strolls under crimson maples and radiant oaks.
A Community-Infused Escape
The “Made in Big Bear” campaign captures the town’s essence: a place where handcrafted experiences, from fishing rods to lakeside memories, create lasting connections. The 2025 Fishin’ for $50K Tournament exemplified this spirit, blending competition with family-friendly fun. Kids’ activities, like crafts and eco-engagement stations, kept young visitors entertained, while adults swapped stories over craft brews. The tournament’s inclusive approach—welcoming anglers of all skill levels and offering family discounts—mirrored Big Bear’s broader ethos of accessibility and warmth.
Big Bear’s summer is a balance of adventure and serenity. Whether casting a line at “Trout Alley,” hiking to Castle Rock for sweeping views, or savoring a quiet moment by Marina Riviera’s firepits, visitors find a rhythm that feels both exhilarating and restorative. The town’s arts scene, with theater productions and gallery walks, adds cultural depth, while local eateries like Teddy Bear Restaurant serve up hearty comfort food with a side of mountain hospitality.
Redefining Big Bear’s Allure
Big Bear Lake in summer is a revelation, a place where the shoreline takes center stage and the community’s heart shines through. Hotel Marina Riviera, with its lakeside elegance and proximity to the Village, anchors this experience, offering a design-forward retreat that feels both timeless and fresh. From the thrill of fishing to the serenity of golden hour by the lake, Big Bear weaves adventure, nature, and connection into every moment. As the sun sets, painting the lake in hues of amber and rose, it’s clear: Big Bear’s summer story is one to savor, whether you’re a local, a first-time visitor, or a returning traveler seeking a mountain escape.
Cover image caption: A family poses with their catches during the 2025 Fishin’ for 50K Trout Derby in Big Bear Lake, CA. Photo courtesy of Visit Big Bear.
More more information on Big Bear, visit bigbear.com.
