Big Bear’s Top Bar and Nightlife Options
Your Ultimate Guide to Big Bear Bars
Searching for the best bars in Big Bear Lake, CA for your upcoming night out? Whether you are going out for a fun time with your friends, looking for great nightlife spots, or just hoping to enjoy some craft beers, this guide is here to help with your search for the best Big Bear bars. Discover the best places to unwind, dance, and savor local flavors.
Big Bear has a long list of options when it comes to great bars, entertainment, and all things nightlife. Just because the sun goes down, doesn’t mean the fun has to end. Be sure to take a look at our list of the best bars in Big Bear and options for nightlife in Big Bear while you are visiting.
Key Takeaways
- Big Bear bars have a great variety of options for family-friendly beer and wine spots and nightlife venues, making them fun for both families and adults looking to enjoy an entertaining night out!
- Local Big Bear breweries and unique bar experiences, such as wine and cider tastings, add to the variety and richness of the Big Bear drinking scene.
- Planning your bar crawl around key nights and using safe transportation options can enhance your experience and keep you safe while enjoying the local nightlife.
Best Bars for Families and Friends in Big Bear Lake, CA
Murray’s Saloon & Eatery

Murray’s Saloon & Eatery
Murray’s is easily one of, if not the, most popular bar option in Big Bear Lake, CA. The entertainment here is never-ending with their guests participating in karaoke throughout the night. With the popularity of this option, be sure to arrive a little earlier if you want to have a table or a chair to sit on. If you get there before the kitchen closes, make sure to try something off the menu, as many local and guests alike rave about their food.
Murray’s Saloon & Eatery is a beloved haunt in Big Bear Lake, CA, with a family-friendly atmosphere suitable for all ages. The kitchen is open until 2 am, which is perfect for those late-night snacks after exploring town. The friendly service and fun atmosphere have made Murray‘s a local spot for over 20 years.
Whiskey Dave’s

Whiskey Dave’s
Located right in the heart of the village, Whiskey Dave’s provides live music entertainment every weekend. Along with showing most pro and college sporting events, they also provide 6 pool tables, foosball tables, and some great food. Head over to have some friendly competition with the game tables. They can also accommodate for bachelor/bachelorette parties, private parties, and birthdays.
B’s Boathouse
B‘s Boathouse has a casual and relaxed atmosphere that is ideal for a chill evening. If you are looking for a place to watch sports, B‘s Boathouse is the perfect environment for it! You can play a game of pool table with your friends and enjoy a cold beer. It is a fun place to hang out and spend quality time with friends or relax after a long day.
Dance and Big Bear Nightlife Hotspots
For those wanting extra excitement, Big Bear has a nightlife scene with lots of possibilities to dance and celebrate. From themed parties to live music, you can let loose and revel in the night at both the most energetic and leisurely places found here.
AV Nightclub

AV Nightclub
AV Nightclub is a multi –use venue that provides day and night entertainment in Big Bear Lake, CA. During the day you can come in, play pool, and watch sports or as the sun sets and night begins, this tropical oasis transforms into a dance party with DJs and bottle service, making it THE place for late night fun – where you can dance until you can‘t dance anymore and simply keep your head in the game.
Live DJ Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturdays. Located right in the heart of the village, AV Nightclub provides live DJ entertainment every day. Along with a Pool Table, Arcade Games, back patio, and craft cocktails. Head over to have a blast dancing and get a VIP table with Bottle Service.
Club Bombay
Club Bombay distinguishes itself with a warm, inviting ambiance while emphasizing craft cocktails and live music in Big Bear. Club Bombay offers specialty cocktails, such as pomegranate martinis and blood orange margaritas, and provides an exclusive and enjoyable drinking experience. If you want to experience mainstream art in a wine bar–type atmosphere, head over on Wine Wednesday. For Wednesday, you get $2 off glasses of red or white.
Breweries and Craft Beer Havens
Big Bear is a paradise for craft beer lovers with multiple breweries in town that pour locally inspired beers for a broad range of tastes. Whether you prefer hoppy IPAs or a bigger, bolder two–beer Tuesday option, these breweries offer a delicious way to explore flavor.
Big Bear Lake Brewing Company
The many options for craft beer are a true highlight at the Big Bear Lake Brewing Company! Beyond the fruity finish of the Lake Dayz Hazy IPA or the hearty, robust flavor of the Ode to Winslow Porter, they also offer a refreshing and crisp brew in the Bearly Legal Honey Blonde Ale.
Big Bear Mountain Brewery
Big Bear Mountain Brewery features a relaxed atmosphere with an impressive nine beers available on tap, all brewed locally, contributing to a genuine and fresh-tasting experience. The welcoming feel provides comfort while you enjoy a pint (or two) along with friends.
The brewery occasionally offers live music as an added bonus to your beer-tasting adventure. If you live in the area or visiting in town, Big Bear Mountain Brewery has a great ambiance to enjoy some of the best craft beers in town.
Unique Bar Experiences
If you’re looking for something more than drinks, Big Bear has several bars with unique offerings. From wine and cider tastings to local menus, these bars are sure to make for a great night out!
Barrel 33
Barrel 33 stands out with its extensive wide selection of wine, cold beer, and cider tastings. The menu includes delicious shareable plates like baked brie and various flatbreads, perfect for pairing with your drink of choice. This wine and cider bar is ideal for those looking to indulge in a refined tasting experience.
The refined but relaxed atmosphere of Barrel 33 is perfect for a special night out. Whether you are trying a new cider or having a glass of wine, Barrel 33 is a charming little getaway with all of the different flavors to try.
Oakside
Offering the charm of rustic sophistication and an elegant dining experience makes it a favorite in the village: Oakside, with its upscale pub menu highlighting local ingredients and craft cocktails will always be a wonderful drinking and dining experience.
Regardless of whether you are watching your favorite sporting event or enjoying Saturday night among friends, Oakside’s ambience is inviting combined with great service, which makes it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Great food, drink, and atmosphere guarantee that it will be memorable.
Tips for Planning Your Big Bear Bar Crawl
Planning out your Big Bear bar crawl can help you maximize your night out. Knowing where to go and what time can improve your overall experience, and keep you from missing out on any nightly specials or events.
Best Nights to Visit
Thursdays are fun at Murray’s Saloon & Eatery, where their weekly karaoke night brings in locals and tourists alike. The perfect way to start your bar crawl with some good entertainment and fun!
On weekends, AV Nightclub is best to visit when it turns into a dance club with actual DJ’s and themed dance nights. Club Bombay also is best on the weekends when you can check out live music with craft cocktails for a one-of-a-kind nightlife experience in Big Bear Lake, CA.
You can best plan your excursions around these key nights to ensure your enjoyment while experiencing the best events, nightlife in Big Bear Lake, CA!
Finally, before enjoying Big Bear’s nightlife, make sure you check out the best Big Bear breakfast and follow up with the best top restaurant places to eat in Big Bear!
Transportation Options
Safety is important when planning your bar crawl in Big Bear Lake, CA. You may want to consider using a local taxi or other ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft to get you around safely after a full night of drinking. Local taxi and ride–sharing options are an easy, credible choice in Big Bear Lake; especially on the weekends.
If you have a larger group, one option is to rent a shuttle service for your bar crawl. This can be a great option, especially when factoring in cost and safety from one bar to another on your bar crawl. Plan your transportation options ahead of time for when you host your big bar crawl in Big Bear Lake, CA, for a nice, enjoyable, and seamless experience!
Summary
Big Bear’s bar scene offers a wide variety of venues, family-friendly, dancing nightlife, local tasting rooms, there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to hang out with your friends in a chill bar, enjoy craft beers, or dance the night away, you’re bound to find a bar for your taste! Plan out your stops and transportation, and you are sure to have an exciting night out!With all the options out there, if you’re thinking of visiting Big Bear, make the most out of your visit – book a cozy Big Bear cabin close to all the nightlife!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best bars for families in Big Bear Lake, CA?
Murray’s Saloon & Eatery and B’s Boathouse are solid picks for family-friendly spots with tasty food and fun vibes. You’ll definitely have a good time there!
Where can I find live music in Big Bear?
You can catch live music at Club Bombay, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. It’s a great spot for some tunes!
Which bar offers the best craft beer selection in Big Bear?
You can’t go wrong with Big Bear Lake Brewing Company or Big Bear Mountain Brewery; both have awesome craft beer selections in Big Bear Lake, California! Check them out for some local brews you’ll love.
What are some unique bar experiences in Big Bear Lake, CA?
You’ve got to check out Barrel 33 for wine and cider tastings; it’s a fun twist! Plus, Oakside serves up an awesome upscale vibe with local ingredients and craft cocktails.
How can I safely get around during a bar crawl in Big Bear?
The best way to safely get around during a bar crawl in Big Bear Lake, CA is by using local taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, or renting a shuttle for bigger groups. Just keep it safe and enjoy your night!
April 12, 2025 Updated 4:50 PM