Pontoon Boats
Best For: Families, groups, sightseeing, and first-time visitors
Pontoon boats are the most popular rental on Big Bear Lake because they're comfortable, easy to operate, and allow you to explore the entire lake. With plenty of seating and room for coolers, fishing gear, and even dogs on some rentals, they're a great choice for spending several hours on the water.
Many visitors enjoy cruising to the western end of the lake near the dam, where you can slow down, relax, and enjoy some of the lake's best mountain views.
✔ Choose a pontoon if: You want an easy, comfortable way to spend the day on the lake.
Fishing Boats
Best For: Anglers and smaller groups
Fishing boats are designed for getting you to productive fishing areas without paying for extra space you may not need. They're typically one of the most affordable motorized rental options and work well for two to four people.
Early mornings are often the best time to fish, with calmer water conditions and less boat traffic on the lake.
✔ Choose a fishing boat if: Your primary goal is catching trout, bass, catfish, or bluegill.
Kayaks & Canoes
Best For: Beginners, couples, nature lovers, and shoreline exploration
Kayaks and canoes are a great way to experience Big Bear Lake at a slower pace. They're especially popular in Boulder Bay and Metcalf Bay, where lower-speed boating activity and more protected water often create calmer conditions.
Morning hours typically offer the best paddling experience. By afternoon, Big Bear's regular winds can create choppier water conditions that require more effort and experience.
✔ Choose a kayak or canoe if: You want a quieter experience and plan to stay close to shore.
Paddleboards
Best For: Active visitors and experienced paddlers
Paddleboards offer a fun way to explore the lake while getting some exercise. Like kayaks, they are usually best enjoyed during the morning when the lake is calmer.
Because afternoon winds are common on Big Bear Lake, paddleboarding can become much more challenging later in the day, especially for beginners.
Boulder Bay and Metcalf Bay are often good places for newer paddleboarders to start because conditions are frequently calmer than in the middle of the lake.
✔ Choose a paddleboard if: You're looking for an active way to experience the lake and are comfortable balancing on the water.
★ Our Recommendation
If it's your first time renting on Big Bear Lake, a pontoon boat is usually the safest choice. You'll have the freedom to explore the entire lake, comfortable seating for your group, and enough space to spend several hours enjoying the scenery without feeling rushed.
If you're looking for a shorter outing, kayaking and paddleboarding are excellent options, especially during the morning when lake conditions are typically at their calmest.
