Big Bear's Hidden Gems and Secrets

Big Bear Lake is a mountain community unlike any other in Southern California, and we wanted to share some of the locals' best kept secrets, gems and treasures! Especially the food, so let's get started on some of our favorite secrets in town.

Secrets For Foodies

Breakie: We don't mean to brag, but Big Bear boasts some of the best breakfasts around! We're talking hearty burritos, heavenly benedicts, steaming flapjacks, fluffy pastry, and more. On weekends, we recommend early arrivals to any breakfast stop as they get busy fast!

A Cultural Flair: Big Bear is also a haven for ethnic cuisine! Savor the flavors of India and Nepal at Himalayan Restaurant and Thai food delicacies at the Royal Thai Cafe. Dig into curries, tandoori dishes, masalas, Thai noodles, and more. With imported Indian beers, vegetarian dishes, and kids options, there's something for everyone to love!

And don't miss out on incredible Chinese cuisine at Dynasty! Indulge in popular orange chicken, vegetable rolls, and crab meat rangoon dishes as well as authentic chow meins, fried rice, and soups. Other ethnic sit-downs to try are Santana & Mavericks with their wide selection of cuisines and the headquarters of Italian dishes, Sweet Basil Bistro!

Secrets For Nature Lovers

With a playground like the San Bernardino Mountains, adventure abounds at every step! You'll find hidden gems ranging from unique trailheads, tours, and special events. Let's discover some of them now:

Strictly Big Bear: The Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve is a gorgeous spot for wildflower and wildlife viewing in the spring and summer. Learn about what's in bloom when you visit and see the amazing pebble plain flowers found only in Big Bear! History buffs can delve into the Valley's long history at the local museum.

Eureka!: If you have kids - or are just a big kid at heart - The Gold Rush Mining Adventures brings the enjoyment of a mining experience straight to your vacation! Strike it rich with gemstones, rocks, minerals, fossils and geodes from all over the world. You can even have jewelry made from your findings! Then head over to Earth's Elements to continue your search for precious stones, singing bowls, crystals and more!

Farm Life: Big Bear is home to a unique equestrian center and petting zoos at Baldwin Lake Stables.

Secrets for Unique Lodging

Travel Back in Time: Book a B&B stay for two at the Victorian inspired Apples Bed & Breakfast complete with gas fireplaces, TV, private baths, and of course breakfast!

Your Fairy Tale Awaits: Live like a knight, or Cleopatra, or a woodland fairy! Castlewood Cottages themed lodging may be the rarest of them all. Each cottage tells a different story, a cozy story with fireplaces and spas!

Hostels: Big Bear offers two hostel locations - Big Bear Hostel and ITH Hostels - for visitors year-round. Get to know your fellow lodgers (many international) or book for retreats, events, and family reunions.

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