Memorial Day Weekend in Big Bear Lake: What to Expect + Things to Do

Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest times of the year in Big Bear Lake — and for good reason.

It’s the unofficial start of summer, with warmer weather, open trails, lake activities, and a full lineup of things to do. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a long weekend, Big Bear offers a mix of outdoor activities, scenic spots, and relaxed mountain time.

Memorial Day weekend is also one of the most consistently busy weekends in Big Bear each year, especially with visitors coming up from Southern California.

If you’re thinking about heading up, here’s what to expect and how to make the most of it.

What Memorial Day Weekend in Big Bear Is Like

Memorial Day weekend in Big Bear is busy — and you should expect it.

You’ll find:

• More traffic coming up the mountain
• Popular spots filling up early
• Restaurants and the Village noticeably more active

Midday is when things feel the most crowded. The Village parking lots often fill up by late morning, and areas like Boulder Bay and lake access points are usually some of the first to get busy.

Even with the crowds, it’s still one of the best times to visit if you’re looking for a mix of weather, activity, and atmosphere.

Weather in Big Bear Over Memorial Day

By Memorial Day, Big Bear is typically moving into early summer conditions.

You can expect:

• Mild to warm daytime temperatures
• Cooler mornings and evenings
• Plenty of sunshine

Remember, it can still feel cool in the shade or near the lake, especially in the morning or after sunset, so layers are always a good idea.

Best Things to Do on Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day is a great time to experience a little bit of everything Big Bear has to offer.

Spend Time at the Lake

The lake becomes a central focus this time of year.

You’ll see:

• boating and kayaking
• people relaxing near the shoreline
• fishing activity picking up

Even just walking along the water or stopping at a lakeside area is worth it.

Local tips:

• Boulder Bay is one of the most popular spots for grilling and lakefront picnics, but space fills up quickly — especially by late morning on holiday weekends. If you’re planning to use a grill or picnic area, it’s best to get there early.
• Pontoon boat rentals are one of the most popular activities over Memorial Day weekend, especially for families and groups. Most rentals are handled through local marinas around the lake, and it’s common for same-day availability to be gone by late morning. If you’re planning to rent a boat, reserving ahead is strongly recommended.

Take a Scenic Drive

One of the easiest ways to explore Big Bear is by car.

Driving around the lake gives you:

• multiple viewpoints
• easy access to stops
• a feel for the entire area

Start here: Drive Around Big Bear Lake →

Go for a Hike

Most trails are open and accessible by Memorial Day.

Good options include:

• Alpine Pedal Path (easy)
• Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk (flat and quiet)

View all hiking options →

Trailhead parking fills up faster than people expect on holiday weekends, especially mid-morning.

Walk the Village

The Village is more active over Memorial Day weekend, with shops, restaurants, and a steady flow of visitors.

It’s a good place to:

• grab food
• browse shops
• take a break between activities

Restaurants can have longer wait times during peak hours, especially lunch and early dinner. A few restaurants offer reservations.

Wildlife & Nature Viewing

Spring is a great time for wildlife activity.

While sightings are never guaranteed, areas around the lake and quieter spots can be good places to watch for birds and other wildlife.

Events & Activities Over Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend in Big Bear typically includes a mix of local events, community gatherings, and seasonal activities starting up around the lake and in the Village.

Some of the more consistent events and traditions include:

• Grill & Chill – A popular local event with food, music, and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere
• Memorial Day Ceremony at Veterans Park – A community ceremony honoring those who have served
• Memorial Day 5K Run – A seasonal race that brings both locals and visitors together

These events tend to draw more people into the Village and central areas, especially during peak hours.

While these events happen most years, details can vary, so it’s always worth checking closer to your visit.

Most visitors still come for the weather, lake, and outdoor activities — with events adding to the overall atmosphere rather than being the main focus.

Traffic & Crowds (What to Expect)

This is one of the biggest things to plan for.

• Traffic heading up the mountain can be slow
• Roads around the lake often become stop-and-go mid-day
• Parking fills quickly at popular spots

Arriving early or coming up the day before makes a big difference. If you arrive mid-day, expect delays and limited parking options.

Local Tips for Memorial Day Weekend

A few simple things that make the weekend much easier:

• Arrive early or come up the day before
• Do your main activity in the morning
• Expect slower traffic around the lake mid-day
• Have a backup plan in case parking is full
• Keep your plans flexible

The more relaxed your schedule is, the better the experience tends to be.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few things that tend to catch people off guard:

• Arriving mid-day and expecting easy parking
• Trying to do too much in one day
• Not planning for traffic delays
• Skipping early morning when it’s best

Most issues come down to timing — not the destination.

Is Memorial Day a Good Time to Visit Big Bear?

Yes — if you plan for it.

Memorial Day weekend offers:

• great weather
• lots of activity
• a lively atmosphere

But it also comes with:

• crowds
• traffic
• busier conditions

If you’re looking for energy and things to do, it’s a great time to visit.

If you prefer quieter trips, earlier mornings or a weekday visit may be a better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions