The area of Big Bear Lake referred to as “Big Bear Lake West”, is a not one specific community or subdivision, but rather the area of Big Bear bordered by the National Forest to the South and Big Bear Lake to the North, and is one of the first areas of Big Bear visitors arriving via 18/330 will encounter. Boulder Bay, located within Big Bear West, is a well known and often photographed community of Big Bear, made famous by its large boulder-like rock formations and lakeside park developed in 2010.
Big Bear Lake West Lifestyle
Big Bear Lake West attracts outdoors enthusiasts as both full time residents and vacation home owners due to its proximity to a plethora of outdoor activities. Not only is it positioned close to an abundance of outdoor mountain interests and the lake, it’s location on the West side of Big Bear allows for easy access to State Highway 18 and a generally faster trip up and down “the hill”.
The area referred to as “Big Bear Lake West” does not describe one specific community within Big Bear, but instead the collection of communities located on the South side of the lake between the Big Bear Dam and the Boulder Bay area. The proximity of Big Bear Lake West to the lake itself makes it an ideal area for lake lovers to call home. If you are looking for impressive lakefront property in a peaceful and picturesque setting, Big Bear Lake West is a great area to consider. Within Big Bear Lake West, you’ll find Papoose Bay, complete with hillside lakefront homes with gorgeous lake views; Inspiration Point, a peninsula and home to deeded dock rights and the famous “Waterview Drive”; Metcalf Bay; Fisher Cove; and Boulder Bay.
Pleasure Point Marina, established in 1914 and located on Metcalf Bay, serves Big Bear Lake West, and is the second oldest continually operating marina in Big Bear. Visit Pleasure Point Marina to rent pontoon and fishing boats, kayaks, paddle boards, and pedal boats. They also offer lake permits; fishing licenses; fishing gear and bait; beer, wine, ice, and coolers; refreshments; and boat accessories. Their launching facilities are nestled close to the lake shoreline and as a result, launching your watercraft at Pleasure Point Marina is a pleasure.
Shopping and dining in Big Bear Lake West is mostly provided by mom-and-pop stores and restaurants, adding to the quiet, non-commercialized, vibe of the area. Blanca and Pierre’s Restaurant, located close to Boulder Bay Park at 39170 Big Bear Blvd., is open for breakfast and lunch and offers American favorites (sandwiches, pastas, salads) and fresh baked goods and pies. History buffs will also find the decaying remains of the Dam Keepers house in Big Bear Lake West. This stone building, originally built in 1891, housed many different dam keepers close to ninety years and is a fascinating part of Big Bear’s history.
Boulder Bay Park
Since its development, the lakeside park, Boulder Bay Park (located at 39080 Big Bear Blvd., a couple of miles East of the Big Bear Dam) has become a popular year-round gathering spot for both locals and visitors. It’s a great “first stop” for those visiting Big Bear (complete with free parking, great views, and public restrooms).
Summertime in Boulder Bay and Boulder Bay Park offers outdoor delights such as: canoeing and kayaking (head out towards the boulder island, Treasure Island also known as China Island or Garstin Island, to explore), paddle boarding (a truly scenic paddle and easy launch spot), fishing off the floating dock (drop a line and unwind), picnicking (you’ll find picnic tables and benches at the park), and enjoying the pleasures of the lushly landscaped grounds, walking paths, and iconic lake, mountain, and boulder views.
Springtime is also a great time to visit Boulder Bay Park, as the foliage is blooming, the climate is generally mild, and the temperatures are pleasant. However, the lake water is still cold in Springtime (and a Big Bear spring can also bring a surprise snowfall, even in the month of May), so use caution if enjoying water sports.
Once fall arrives and the leaves start to turn from green to bright red, orange, and gold, Boulder Bay transforms into a wonderful spot to capture photos of an iconic mountain fall. Grab your thermos and enjoy your morning coffee and lake view while breathing in the crisp morning air.
Don’t discount Boulder Bay Park during the winter either, as it is a popular spot for snow play and recreation. Make a snow man! Have a snowball fight! Boulder Bay Park offers fun outdoor activities and beautiful views throughout all four seasons and it is easy to understand why this area of Big Bear is a well-known and sought after one! No matter which season you choose to visit Boulder Bay Park, don’t forget to snap a photo with Louie the Bear, a recognizable symbol of Boulder Bay who greets visitors with a Big Bear Smile!
Castle Rock Trail
Big Bear Lake West also boasts the famous dog friendly (be sure to keep your pups leashed) Castle Rock Trail, another draw to the area for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. This moderate to advanced (approximately 2 miles round trip) steep hike leads hikers through towering pine trees and boulders to a gorgeous rocky crag showcasing a spectacular birds-eye panoramic view of Big Bear and the lake from the top. Dubbed “Castle Rock” due to the nearby rock formation that resembles a castle, you’ll definitely want to bring your camera with you on this adventure!
Visitors can find access to the Castle Rock Trailhead off of State Highway 18/ Big Bear Blvd. approximately 1.1 miles East of the Big Bear Dam. Parking is limited (you will not find a designated parking lot) and can be tricky, especially on weekends, as this trail is well traveled. Parking can be found in nearby turnouts along the road (use caution when parking and entering and exiting your vehicle). Maps of this trail (and others) are available at the Big Bear Discovery Center.
Walking sticks, trekking poles, and sturdy footwear/hiking boots are recommended, as you should expect to encounter numerous boulders and a steep elevation gain (approximately 600-700 feet). You’ll find a bench to stop and rest after your initial incline, which is a great spot for a water break and a photo op! You’ll then start your final ascent through the boulder outcroppings.
Hiking trails located within Big Bear Lake West in addition to Castle Rock Trail include Champion Lodgepole Trail, Bluff Lake, and Siberia Creek Trail.
