Reservations & More Information: 310-780-3411

Making a Better Fall Getaway

We’re willing to bet most of you didn’t have “stay home, avoid friends, limit travel and homeschool” on your bingo cards for this year. But when life throws lemons at you, we say “make a huge tasty lemon meringue pie.” And part of that involves making a better fall getaway with a Five Star Vacation Rental cabin or estate in Big Bear.

Part of the upside of having the kids doing their schoolwork from home is that you’re no longer tethered to having them in school. As part of our “Glass Half Full Initiative,” we’re suggesting you turn this unexpected situation into a plus and have your family dedicate some time to enjoying the beauty found in Big Bear. It’s a truly great solution. Start the day with a family breakfast followed by quiet time for the kids to do their online schooling, and finish up with an afternoon walk in the woods or a family movie night with popcorn and treats. It’s a family vacation without missing school.

Most of Big Bear is back open with observing social distancing and masks. And if you’d prefer, each of our cabins has a full kitchen, so you can cook up your favorites right without even venturing out. Just slide out to the deck and enjoy the cool Big Bear evening air as the family enjoys a great dinner. Grab some desert later and maybe relax in the spa too. Get the picture? This can actually become a time your family remembers fondly.

Bring your bicycles along to expand your exploring. Whether you’re on the streets or bike trails, there’s plenty to explore in Big Bear. The shops and restaurants at The Village are open, and there are many great gifts and treasures to be found. Grab some takeout from any of the wonderful restaurants, and you can enjoy a great meal back at your Five Star Vacation Rental.

Book online and check out our Big Bear cabins and estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your perfect getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  We have offices in Newport Beach and Big Bear. Here are links to our properties in Nuevo Vallarta and La Quinta.

Staycations are Back

We’ve been happy to see so many people eager to get back out again. It was a quiet few months, and we’re excited to be back connecting people with some great relaxation in our Southern California destinations.

Big Bear is nearly booked solid through much of September, but we still have some great properties available, especially if you can plan a weekday getaway. Our Grand 8 Bedroom Estate at Castle Glen has lots of weekday openings, and it’s a great choice. You’ll enjoy 8 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms spread out over 6700 square feet. There’s room for 16 guests, with a theater room that has two-level seating and a 10 foot viewing screen, a game room, a foosball table, and a 7 person spa. The floor-to-ceiling fireplace and soaring 35 foot ceilings are sure to impress. You can book online and see more photos at this link.

Our newest addition in Big Bear is Cabin 49, the New San Gorgonio Lodge. This has 4 bedrooms with 3.5 baths and room for 12 guests. This is located close to Snow Summit which transforms in the summer months to one of Southern California’s premiere bike parks. It’s also close to The Village and the lake for fishing as well as browsing the shops and restaurants. It’s got quartz countertops, two fireplaces, an outdoor hot tub, and a big beautiful pine sprouting right through the deck. This beautiful property was just completed last year, and you can be among the first to enjoy its luxury.

Check out our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your perfect getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  We have offices in Newport Beach and Big Bear. Here are links to our properties in Nuevo Vallarta and La Quinta.

Put Us On Your Back to School Shopping List

School Bus: Cute Girl Getting On BusThe ads are unavoidable, and it’s unmistakable that the lazy, hazy days of summer are waning.  Back to school season is upon us with all the flyers in the mail, the extra shopping trips, and the annual reworking of our schedules. But there’s still time to plan one last family getaway before the bell rings on that first day back to school.  Put us on your back to school shopping list, and you can end the summer on a great note.

Big Bear is amazing during the late summer. The evenings are usually cool, and the daytime temperatures can be a break from the hotter days more common throughout much of Southern California. Especially popular this time of year is the golfing, hiking, trail biking, and fishing on the lake.

Golf, ball lying on the green next to holeGolfers can also enjoy the 9 hole course at the base of Bear Mountain throughout the summer. This is a delightful course that offers some of the most amazing scenery you’ll find on any southland course.  Have fun brushing up on your game with their 300 yard driving range and areas for chipping, putting, and bunker practice zones.

Hikers will find improved paths for all skill and exertion levels, with clearly marked paths and some wheelchair and stroller accessible. Here’s a good list of trails at this link.

The Big Bear Cycling Association has rides scheduled throughout the rest of summer. They also offer rides for all skill levels and local bike rentals are available.

You can book your stay online or view all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your holiday vacation or getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo Vallarta and La Quinta.

 

 

July in Big Bear

Big Bear FireworksJuly in Big Bear is full of options for family fun, and the 4th is certainly the most popular event of the month. We suggest you book early for the dates surrounding the 4th, because we sell out every year.  If you’ve never seen the fireworks over Big Bear Lake, you should put it on your bucket list. Big Bear prides itself on putting on the biggest fireworks display in all of Southern California. There are plenty of great spaces around the lake and boats you can rent to view the spectacle on the lake. There are also a bunch of other events during the day from a fun run in the morning, a festival with booths full of great gifts and creations from local artists, and plenty of amazing food. But don’t delay!

Our road warriors will have plenty of opportunities for group bike rides throughout July. Meet every Monday morning at the The Copper Q for the weekly Java Morning Road Ride with the Big Bear Cycling Association. The ride is free, and starts at 8:30am. July offers a new ride almost everyday, and various difficulty levels are offered as well. Visit their website for more details.

Screen Shot 2019-07-01 at 6.29.35 PMJuly 5th and 6th Bear Mountain golf course is offering a unique experience for the golfers. It’s a night time glow in the dark extravaganza with glowing golf balls, and the entire course laid out with a special lighting. You can be the first one among your golfing buddies to declare you love the sport so much, you even play it at night. Tickets for the event are $59 and include the green fee, cart rental, light refreshments, and a glow-in-the-dark ball. Check out their website for more details and to RSVP.

Screen Shot 2019-07-01 at 6.37.38 PMIf you’ve never done goat yoga, your life is incomplete. Bear Valley Farms is offering goat yoga on their 30 acre spread, and it’s a rare chance to relax and feel the soothing hooves of some baby and adult goats walk all over you. Leave your kids with the in-laws, and head over to spend some time with these kids. It’s hard to imagine you won’t come away from the experience with some great stories and some pretty relaxing yoga as well. Who knew allowing farm animals to climb all over you could be so relaxing? Visit their website for more info.

This is just a taste of the great events that await you during your July visit with Five Star Vacation Rentals in Big Bear.  You can book your stay online or view all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your summer vacation or getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo Vallarta and La Quinta.

May Events in Big Bear

There are enough May events in Big Bear to keep you busy all month long. It’s a perfect time to plan your Five Star Vacation Rental getaway and here are just a few of the fun things you can enjoy during your stay.

Cropped Biker in ForestSpring relaunches Big Bear’s cycling season, and there are a bunch of events planned all month long. The events start May 1st. with a twilight ride starting from Maggio’s Pizza at 5:30pm. Many consider Big Bear to the cycling capital of Southern California, and the Big Bear Cycling Association is one of the most active cycling groups anywhere in the country. Owing to Big Bear’s natural beauty and varied terrain the association offers a broad spectrum of rides for all skill levels and some planned specifically as family events. Visit their website for more details on upcoming rides: https://bigbearcycling.com

ruby slippersBig Bear’s night life is jam packed throughout May with some really great choices sure to delight everyone in the family. For a fun night of comedic relief, and family-friendly slapstick, head over to the Big Bear Performing Arts Center for the Big Bear High School Performing Arts Department’s presentation of a Panto version of “The Wizard of Oddz.” Inspired by the comedic style started in England, this loosely follows Dorothy and her friends trying to get back to Kansas with some very funny changes and audience participation along the way. You’ll want to order tickets in advance for the performances. Runs May 2-3-4 at 7pm and May 4-5 at 2pm.

Music lovers will have their choice of great events in May as well. The Cave continues with its lineup of great bands. May kicks off on Friday the 3rd with a performance by X, one of the most influential punk bands from the past 40 years. The following night will see Anuhea, the Hawaiian songstress bring her unique sound to The Cave. And here’s a list of other acts appearing throughout the month.
5/11: T.S.O.L.
5/18: Led Zepagain, a tribute band to Led Zeppelin
5/25: Desperado: An Eagles Tribute Band
Visit https://thecavebigbear.com for more details and to buy tickets in advance.

Each of these events will be enhanced when you finish the day by retreating to the luxury of your Five Star Vacation Rental in Big Bear. You can do your own custom search for the specific dates you’d like to stay on our Big Bear page. Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your perfect  getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo Vallarta, Mammoth Mountain, Park City, Southern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

 

 

Plan Your August Big Bear Getaway

Big Bear’s event calendar is full of great things to keep your entire family occupied and smiling during August. And all of these events will be even more enjoyable when you retreat to the comfort of your luxury Five Star Vacation Rental at the end of each full day’s activities. Here is a sampling of the activities you can enjoy during your August stay in Big Bear.

Big Bear Cycling FestivalAugust opens with the continuation of Big Bear Cycling Festival. The festival opens on July 28th and continues through August 5th. This is the only week-long cycling festival in the United States, and it’s an experience that offers events geared for all ages and skill levels. The 8th annual Tour de Big Bear is part of the activities and it takes place on Saturday, August 4th. This has been voted as “Southern California’s Favorite Ride.” This 25 mile ride circles the beauty of Big Bear Lake, and keeps you immersed in the San Bernardino National Forest with a total climb of about 1300 feet that include views of the San Gorgonio mountains.  Experienced riders may want to choose “The Climb” and embark on this challenging 107 mile route with its 9000 foot climb. Other events during the week cater to more casual riders and there’s rides planned just for the kids as well. Check out all the events and register online at www.BigBearCyclingFestival.com.

Telescope watching the wilky wayStar gazers will want to take advantage of Big Bear’s unique night sky at First Friday Under the Stars at Bear Valley Farms on the evening of August 3rd. This is a great opportunity to experience the night sky in a way most city-dwellers never enjoy. Local astronomers will talk about the stars and share their telescopes with attendees. Pack some blankets and chairs, and get ready for a fun and informative evening under the amazing night sky in Big Bear.

Screen Shot 2018-07-03 at 11.48.53 AMSnow Summit is offering outdoor Movies in the Meadow this summer with family-friendly movies offered for free. You can enjoy screening of “WALL-E” on Saturday August 4th and “A Wrinkle In Time” on Saturday August 11th. Load up the kids and bring some blankets and folding chairs for a relaxing evening on the meadow at the base of Snow Summit. These screenings are a popular event in Big Bear, so you’ll want to plan to arrive early to stake out a good spot. Visit their website for more information on the movies and schedule.

And the Renaissance Faire continues weekends through August 12th. Get dressed up, or just come as you are. Themed weekends this year include Fantasy Weekend July 21-22. July 28-29 is Pirates Weekend, and  August 4th and 5th is Steampunk Weekend. The fun closes out on August 11th and 12th with Royal Weekend. This annual event is one of the best Big Bear offers, and one that many of our guests keep coming back for every year. Visit the faire’s website for more details and to purchase tickets.

View all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for special Father’s Day with your family.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your getaway whatever the occasion may be.  Here are links to our properties in Nuevo Vallarta, Mammoth Mountain, Park City, Southern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

 

More Fun For Your July Big Bear Getaway

In our blog last week, we looked at some of the fun things you can plan for your July getaway to Big Bear. July is packed with fun stuff, so we’re taking a look at some more of the fun things you can include during your stay.

JoustingOur favorite event is the annual Renaissance Faire running weekends starting July 14th through August 12th. If you’ve never been, it’s a great time with amazing food and many interesting characters. Be sure to watch for the themed weekends, and feel free to join in the fun with your own costumes. This year you’ll have the chance to enjoy fairies, pirates, royalty, and more. And the food is simply amazing. You’ll be able to select from a variety of period foods. Just follow the amazing aromas to see which one you’ll take in.

Cycling raceBig Bear boasts one of the most beautiful venues for cyclists in all of California. The Big Bear Cycling Association is hosting cycling events all month long culminating in the Big Bear Cycling Festival from July 28 through August 5th. This is the only week-long cycle festival in the United States. Events are scheduled in the dirt and the road with offerings geared toward all skill levels. You’ll find altitude acclimation rides, kids events, and a cycling expo displaying the best in cycling gear and technology. There are a number of events scheduled including Crafts N Cranks, which combines your passion for mountain biking, and craft brews with a fun run at Snow Summit, the mountain biking Mecca of Southern California. Visit http://bigbearcyclingfestival.com for more info.

watching wildlifeYour family can learn more about ecotourism in Big Bear during Big Bear Valley Outdoor Adventure Days on July 29th and 30th. This event takes place at the Big Bear Discovery Center and features nature, history, discovery and more. Visitors will be able to visit a Big Bear wetland area, explore Big Bear Lake on paddle boats, and learn more about Big Bear’s rich Native American history. Nature walks and bird watching tours will also be offered. It’s a great way to enjoy Big Bear and learn about how we can preserve its beauty for future generations.

You can easily book your stay at any time online or view all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your summer vacation or getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo Vallarta, Mammoth Mountain, Park City, Southern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

Plan Your July Getaway in Big Bear

family with backpacks taking selfie and hikingSummer is in full swing, and our reservation line is heating up. It happens this time every year as excited families decide this is the year they’re going to plan a vacation that includes some truly luxurious accommodations. And we’re delighted to help create these memorable vacations, anniversaries, honeymoons and more. Our collection of luxury estates and cabins represents some of the finest properties you can find in all of Big Bear.  And your stay with us in these luxury accommodations is sure to create an experience your family will long remember.

Crowd wathcing fireworksJuly is an especially good month to plan your Big Bear getaway. Independence Day is one of our busiest holidays. The fireworks display in Big Bear the biggest Fourth of July fireworks display in Southern California. It’s especially fun, because the fireworks are launched from a barge on Big Bear Lake. The display in the sky is magnified by the reflections of the water. It’s truly an amazing show, and one you need to put on your bucket list.

Enjoy a fun night at the theater with The Big Bear Theater Project’s 80th anniversary presentation of Thornton Wilder’s “Our Town.” You’ll enjoy a nostalgic trip to Grover’s Corners, and enjoy an evening with its colorful residents. The play opens July 6th, and runs through July 14th. For showtimes and information, visit their website. You can purchase tickets online at this link.

JoustingJuly 14th marks the opening of the annual Renaissance Faire in Fawnskin. It runs weekends through August 12th. This is one of our absolute favorite events, and a delightful time for everyone. This year they’re offering themed weekends. Fantasy Weekend is July 21-22, and you can expect to see fairies and all manner of mythical forest creatures. July 28-29 is Pirates Weekend, and you arrrrrrrr sure to have a Jolly Roger of a time. August 4th and 5th is Steampunk Weekend, and every goggle-wearing time-traveling Victorian is sure to enjoy some fun. The fun closes out on August 11th and 12th with Royal Weekend. This celebration of the faire’s royalty will include a sumptuous banquet fit for a queen, and you can join her for some turkey legs that are literally bigger than your head. Visit the faire’s website for more details and to purchase tickets.

Ongoing events during July include many scheduled rides with the Big Bear Cycling Association, and of course you’re invited to enjoy any of the miles of hiking trails that will get you up close with the beauty that Big Bear has to offer.

You can book your stay online or view all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your summer vacation or getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo Vallarta, Mammoth Mountain, Park City, Southern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

Plan a Great July 4th in Big Bear

BigBearFireworksThe 4th of July is always a pretty big deal around here. Many families kick off their summer vacations with this holiday, and those heading to Big Bear for the holiday always enjoy a special treat. The fireworks display is the largest one in all of Southern California. The fireworks are fired from a barge on Big Bear Lake, and visible from many shoreside properties and parks, but are even more spectacular from a boat on the lake. It’s a truly memorable event, and one that many families repeat every year.

The fourth falls in the middle of the week this year, so it’s a great opportunity for many families to plan a vacation to include the weekends before and after. And there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay for the full week. Here’s a sample of the events that week:

July starts with a full slate of cycling events sponsored by the Big Bear Cycling Association. The events continue all month long with rides scheduled for all age and skill levels. Biking in Big Bear is a wonderful adventure with many rides taking advantaAnd if you arrive without a bike, you’ve got some great options to rent them in Big Bear. Visit www.bigbearcycling.com for more information on upcoming events.

NugentAtTheCaveRock and roll fans have a special treat on July 2 when Ted Nugent appears at The Cave. He’s sold over 40 million albums, performed a staggering 6500 live shows, and is world renown for his guitar shredding. This is a unique opportunity for Southern California fans to enjoy his unique brand of music in The Cave’s intimate setting. Get more details, view all upcoming shows, and purchase tickets at The Cave’s website.

Marathon running race, fun run, people feet on roadHead over to Meadow Park on the morning of fourth for the 1st Annual Big Bear 4th of July Fun Run. Kick off the holiday with a fun run at Meadow Park, a great place on the lake to reserve your spot for the evening fireworks!
It’s a fun event for the entire family. Kids (and strollers!) welcomed with 3 distances – 5K, 10K, 15K. Wear something wacky, and you may win the costume contest as well. Head over to www.runbigbear.com for more details and preregistration.

The Convention Center will be hosting a July 4th Independence Day Fair. You’ll enjoy fun games, old fashion contests, vendor booths, and some great food as well.

Barbecue pork ribs on a grillAnd if you don’t feel like cooking up your own feast, head over to the Marian Resort on Big Bear Blvd for the Annual Rotary Club Big Bear Lake Fourth Of July BBQ. This is also a great spot to view the fireworks. They’ll have booths set up with games, live music, and lots of other fun activities. Be sure to pack your lawn chairs and some blankets, so you can enjoy the fireworks in comfort later. Get more info on ticket prices and activities at this link.

You can book your stay online or view all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for your spring vacation or getaway.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your next vacation getaway.  Here are links to our other properties in Nuevo Vallarta, Mammoth Mountain, Park City, Southern California Beaches, and La Quinta.

 

Give Dad a Great Day With Five Star Vacation Rentals

Father help son to ride bicycle in summer park. Back viewThrough the years he’s been there as your emergency banker, reliable defender, and biggest cheerleader. He’s loved you through thick and thin, and you can probably trace some of your greatest triumphs to his help and support. We’re a couple weeks away from Father’s Day, and you may still be stumped in your pursuit of something special for dad this year. Well, be stumped no more. We’ve got a great idea and some great activities to make sure dad knows just how much you appreciate all he’s done for you over the years.

We still have a handful of luxury vacation rentals available for the Father’s Day weekend, and that’s a perfect starting point for your celebration of dad’s day. Gathering the family together under one roof in Big Bear is an event that many families try to repeat every year. And with some of our larger Big Bear cabins, you can include all the grandads and extended family in your plans.  Pick out some of dad’s favorite movies to watch, and let the kids handle the barbecue duties for a change.  Make sure to choose one of our cabins with a hot tub, so dad can relax after dinner in the soothing warmth of the heated water.

middle-aged man with three sons holding fishing rods smiling (portrait)There’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay when you’re not relaxing in your Five Star Vacation Rental. Check out our collection of great Big Bear June events in our earlier blogs at this link and this one. There’s really something for pretty much every dad. Whether it’s fishing, hiking, cycling, dancing, or a night of live music at one of Big Bear’s popular venues, dad will come away from the experience realizing how much you appreciate him.  And everyone in your group will share the luxury and pampered feelings that come with your time in a Five Star Vacation Rental. It’s the best sort of win-win we can imagine.

View all of our Big Bear cabins and luxury estates at this link.  Or give us a call at 310-780-3411, and we’ll help you choose a great property for special Father’s Day with your family.  And if you’d like to explore any of our other destinations, you can be assured that we’re committed to providing top quality cabins, estates, and condos for your getaway whatever the occasion may be.  Here are links to our properties in Nuevo Vallarta, Mammoth Mountain, Park City, Southern California Beaches, and La Quinta.