10 Must-Do Summer Family Activities in Big Bear
Big Bear Lake is the perfect mountain escape for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. From scenic lake days to cozy cabin moments, here is your itinerary for the ultimate family summer trip brought to you by Gabrielle Stone.
About Gabrielle Stone
A Los Angeles-born actress, director, and two-time best-selling author, Gabrielle Stone is a woman who has turned personal heartbreak into a global movement. Daughter of legendary horror icon Dee Wallace and the late actor Christopher Stone, Gabrielle grew up surrounded by the “movie magic” of Hollywood. However, her life took a transformative turn in 2017 after a soul-searching journey through Europe—an experience she chronicled in her hit book, Eat, Pray, #FML.
Today, Gabrielle is a voice for women navigating life’s “fiery pits of heartache” and its triumphant highs. As a podcast host and mentor, she teaches others how to trade victimization for fearlessness. Her return to Big Bear is less about a vacation and more about honoring the lessons she’s learned: that sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is pause, breathe, and find a sanctuary where you can finally hear your own story.
For Gabrielle, whose life is often a whirlwind of podcasting, writing, and navigating the public eye, finding a ‘storyteller’s sanctuary’ at Bear Escapes was exactly what she needed to press pause.
Here is What Finding Stillness in the Pines Looks Like
Rent an Awesome Cabin
Secure a spacious, family-friendly mountain cabin, like the Bear Escapes cabin Gabrielle and her family stayed in.
A cabin serves as your home base, offering the comfort and amenities—like kitchens and living spaces—that hotels often lack.
Quick Tip: book directly on our website vs Airbnb or VRBO and save up to 26% by avoiding third party fees. All 400+ cabins we manage are all listed on Airbnb and VRBO and it is best to book directly to save.
Lunch at Tropicali
Stop for a meal at Tropicali, a fun, themed dining spot in town.
Its unique, kid-friendly atmosphere—complete with a giant shark feature—makes lunch an exciting experience for children.
Stop at Boulder Bay
Spend time exploring the scenic Boulder Bay Park on the lake.
It is a beautiful, peaceful spot perfect for a family walk, enjoying lake views, and letting the kids play near the water.
Quick Tip: get incredibly delicious pizza from Piza Kama, walking distance to the park.
Playtime in the Cabin Gameroom
Take advantage of the entertainment amenities inside your rental, such as a private gameroom.
Having a dedicated space for pool, games, or movies keeps the kids entertained without needing to leave the cabin.
Quick Tip: search 400+ cabins and explore homes with gamerooms, theaters, A/C and more!
Rent Kayaks
Get out on the water by renting kayaks for the family.
Kayaking is a fantastic, active way to explore the Big Bear Lake shoreline at your own pace.
Quick Tip: bring your pup!
Ride the Waterslide
Head to the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain for some high-energy fun on the waterslides.
It’s a guaranteed hit for kids and a great way to cool off during a warm summer day in the mountains.
Quick Tip: Check out all the other activities there is to do to make a full day of it!
Visit the Candy Store (& Explore Town)
Treat the family to a visit to a local candy store in The Village.
Exploring the unique shops and sweet treats in Big Bear Village is a classic mountain town experience.
Quick Tip: if you like this shop you should check out Stupidiotic on the same street!
Rent a Boat for Tubing
Rent a boat to take the family out for an afternoon of tubing on the lake.
It offers an exhilarating, shared experience that is often the highlight of any summer lake trip.
Quick Tip: choose a hot summer morning to get the best experience!
Soak in the Hot Tub
Relax after a long day of adventuring by soaking in your cabin’s private hot tub.
It’s the perfect way to unwind, warm up, and spend quality family time together in the cool mountain evening air.
Quick Tip: Many of your cabin rentals include hot tubs; be sure to confirm this feature when browsing properties.
Make Memories
Take time to slow down and enjoy the small, authentic moments with your family in the mountains.
Whether it’s driving to your cabin or just hanging out, these shared experiences are what define the “Bear Escapes” journey.
A Sanctuary for Connection: Gabrielle Stone’s Big Bear Escape
For Gabrielle, family time is about finding a space where everyone can exhale and reconnect. Bear Escape is a great choice for a getaway—a beautifully remodeled, pet-friendly mountain retreat tucked away in the peaceful Peter Pan neighborhood of Big Bear City.
The cabin perfectly balances cozy comfort with space for memory-making. Whether it’s unwinding by the stone fireplace after a long day of exploring or gathering the family for a friendly game night in the dedicated recreation area, this home was built for togetherness. It’s more than just a place to stay; it’s the backdrop for the laughter, quiet conversations, and shared moments that make a family trip truly special.
Bedrooms: 4
Baths: 3
Luxury Cabin: Yes
Hot Tub: Yes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summer is ideal for water sports, mountain biking, and hiking, while winter is best for skiing and snow play.
Yes, many rental companies offer life vests for all ages, and designated swim beaches are perfect for younger children to safely splash around.
You can browse and book vetted, family-friendly properties directly through the Destination Big Bear website, which features photos and amenity lists for each home.
Big Bear is at a high elevation (over 6,700 feet). We recommend staying hydrated, limiting strenuous activity for the first 24 hours, and using plenty of sunscreen to keep everyone comfortable.
Many of our properties are pet-friendly! You can use our ‘Pets’ filter on the website to find a cabin that welcomes your furry family members. Please check the specific listing for any additional pet fees or rules.
Our check-in process is designed for convenience; you will receive detailed instructions and door codes prior to your arrival, so you can head straight to your cabin.
