Best Donuts in Big Bear Lake: Local Favorites for a Sweet Morning

Location: Stater Bros Shopping Center, 42173 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA
Hours: Daily, 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.

If you ask anyone in Big Bear where to get a donut, they’ll probably tell you OJ’s — it’s been a local favorite for as long as most of us can remember. This no-frills, walk-in shop keeps things simple: just fresh donuts and hot coffee, made daily.

Their Bear Claws are legendary and the apple fritters are hands-down one of the best treats in town. But here’s the thing — on weekends and holidays, you’ve got to get there early. By mid-morning, the good stuff is usually gone because OJ’s almost always sells out.

You’ll find OJ’s tucked in the Stater Bros shopping center next to Baron’s Pizza, an easy stop whether you’re heading to the slopes, the lake, or back to your cabin. It’s the kind of old-school donut shop that hasn’t changed much over the years — and that’s exactly why people love it.

Best for: Grabbing a classic donut before a day on the mountain or lake — just don’t sleep in, or you’ll miss out!

Location: 42612 Moonridge Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA
Hours: Usually 7 a.m. – 5p.m. (closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays)

Over in Moonridge, Dank Donuts has quickly become a go-to for locals and visitors who want more than just a basic donut. It’s newer on the scene, but they’ve built a loyal following thanks to their great coffee, fun vibe, and creative menu.

Sure, they’ve got plenty of donuts — and they’re good — but you’ll also find breakfast sandwiches, deli sandwiches, and other grab-and-go options. It’s the perfect stop if you’re headed to Bear Mountain, the zoo, or out for a hike on the Rathbun Creek Trail and want to pack something for later.

They’ve got a small outdoor seating area where you can relax in the sun, sip your coffee, and enjoy the mountain air. And the best part? They’re dog-friendly — they even sell homemade dog treats, so your pup doesn’t feel left out.

Best for: A relaxed breakfast spot with great coffee, friendly vibes, and something for everyone — even your dog.

Location: 40191 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA (West of The Village, near Boulder Bay)

It’s not technically a donut shop, but Sister My Sister Bakehouse deserves a shoutout. This cozy little bakery on the west side of town is the kind of place you walk into and instantly smell butter, sugar, and fresh bread. They’re known for their croissants, bread pudding, and especially their cinnamon rolls — they’re huge, gooey, and totally worth the calories.

It’s a bit off the beaten path, over past The Village toward Boulder Bay, but if you’re exploring that side of the lake or just want something sweet with your morning coffee, it’s absolutely worth the stop. Everything’s baked fresh, and the staff is always friendly — the kind of small-town bakery that makes you feel right at home.

Best for: Fresh-baked pastries, cinnamon rolls, and anyone with a sweet tooth.

Big Bear might only have a couple of true donut shops, but they’re both worth the stop. OJ’s is the old-school favorite — the kind of place locals have been going to for years — while Dank Donuts brings a fun, modern twist with great coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and a laid-back Moonridge vibe.

And if you’ve craving that donut in the morning but willing to try a similar breakfast type treat, Sister My Sister Bakehouse has you covered with pastries that rival anything you’ll find down the mountain.

No matter which one you hit first, grab a coffee, enjoy the mountain air, and start your morning the Big Bear way — with something warm, sweet, and made right here in the mountains.

< Older Post