Just 100 miles north of Los Angeles, California’s Big Bear Lake — known as the jewel of the San Bernardino Forest — is surrounded by stunning mountains and pines, making it a beautiful Southern Californian destination for any and every tourist looking for a new place to explore.

In the summer and fall, Big Bear Lake is an absolute mecca for boating, fishing, and water sports — a true must-visit for every water lover. Snowboarding and skiing are waiting in the surrounding mountainscape in winter and spring.

The lake, fed by melting snow, isn’t a massive one compared to some of California’s other lakes — but fishing, exploring, and boating on Big Bear Lake is still one of the most fun things a California boater can do. If you’re heading out to boat on Big Bear Lake, there are a few things you should know.

Our guide to boating in Big Bear Lake has you covered.

People boarding a boat at a dock, boating on Big Bear Lake concept.

Where to Launch and Dock Your Boat on Big Bear Lake

If you’re looking for the right place to launch and dock your boat on Big Bear, there are six marinas to choose from. At these marinas, you can rent a pontoon boat (or a bike) to explore the lake and the beautiful wilderness around it!

You can choose from any of these six locations when boating on Big Bear Lake:

Sunset over Big Bear Lake

Boating Activities on Big Bear Lake

When it comes to boating activities on Big Bear Lake, it’s all about what you want to do! From fishing to watersports, there are tons of options.

You can rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak for a more relaxing afternoon or head out on a pontoon boat with a fishing rod in hand.

Since the scenery around Big Bear Lake is truly stunning, it’s always a great idea to head out on a boating tour of the area, too. Anglers love the waters of Big Bear Lake, which are packed with trout and largemouth bass — so check out this fishing primer if fishing is on your list while boating on Big Bear.

While the lake itself isn’t a huge one, boating on Big Bear Lake could be as relaxing or as adrenaline-inducing as you like. It’s all up to you!

Attractions and Festivities on Big Bear Lake

While boating on Big Bear Lake is a favorite of ours, there are also so many things to do on the lake and around it.

The hiking, for instance, is absolutely incredible in the San Bernardino Natural Forest. We recommend you check out the Pineknot Trail for some really gorgeous views. However, you’ll have to grab an Adventure Pass first.

Also, stay alert for bears — they’re there!

Wintertime in Big Bear Lake is full of outdoor opportunities, giving you beautiful skiing at Bear Mountain or Snow Summit. Kids and adults alike will also have fun searching for gold at Gold Rush Mining Adventures, and there are tons of options, from the zoo to bike rides to helicopter trips to keep you and your family occupied, no matter what.

Graphic showing the BOATsmart! California course, safety when boating on Big Bear Lake concept.

Other Things to Know on Big Bear Lake

When boating on Big Bear Lake, there are a number of regulations that must be remembered while you’re on the water.

From rules around the times of day all the way to lifejacket rules, there are serious laws in place to keep all boaters, anglers, swimmers, and even hikers safe — and Lake Patrol officers patrol Big Bear Lake’s waters.

Big Bear Lake Safety Considerations

As with any body of water, safety rules and regulations must be followed to ensure a safe boating experience for everyone. In addition, Big Bear Lake itself has some unique safety considerations.

For instance, lightning storms can develop quickly in the mountains surrounding Big Bear Lake — so every boater should keep an eye on the weather at all times.

In addition, lake ice develops in the winter and spring months and must be treated with the utmost caution. The wildlife around Big Bear Lake is also something to pay attention to. After all, it’s not called Big Bear Lake for no reason!

Three women holding boater education cards while smiling and wearing lifejackets on a boat.

Get Your Boater Safety Card Before Boating on Big Bear Lake

Right now, almost every boater in California is required to hold a California Boater Card to boat legally in California (and on Big Bear Lake). By 2025, every boater must hold a California Boater Card — so get ahead of the curve and make sure that you’re properly certified to boat safely.

By taking BOATsmart!’s engaging, narrated, and animated boating safety course, you’ll be properly equipped (and legal) for your next excursion boating on Big Bear Lake.

Originally published December 30, 2021. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy August 22, 2024.

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