Kayaking and Canoeing in Big Bear
General Info
- The Municipal Water Department web site has general information about lake use (but not too much specific info on kayaking).
- Big Bear has an official Mountain Paddle Club. See you out there!
- The Quagga Mussel poses an economic threat to Big Bear!
How to keep your boat clean of this stow-away. - Official Lake Recreation Map
If you have your own kayak
Where to launch: You can park your car and launch at either of the public launch ramps or find a spot to park along the north shore. The recommended kayak routes listed below give directions to some good places, but generally you can park anywhere you see fishers parked. Be aware that a few popular fishing spots have steep embankments down to the water and are not nice to carry your boat on. The south shore is generally too developed for public lake access, but if you know someone with lakefront property the paddling there is very good. You may also try contacting the south shore marinas and asking permission to park there while you paddle.
Permits are mandatory for all vessels! Get one at the MDW office before you launch. A day-use pass is $xx. Season passes are $xx.
If you're going to rent a kayak or canoe
You can rent canoes at any of the marinas in Big Bear. We've listed them in order of preference based on the quality of kayaking / canoeing available at each.
Metcalf Bay: Metcalf Bay is naturally shielded from the wind and you can explore the lake-shore wildlife or take a tour of some of the lakefront's nicest homes.
Holloway's Marina & RV Park (800) 448-5335
Discover One of Southern California's Best Kept Secrets! A full service marina with fishing licenses and lake permits available, as well as kayak and canoe rentals.
398 Edgemoor Road in Big Bear Lake, 92315. Turn north at the Log Cabin restaurant and the entrance is ½ mile up on your left.
Pleasure Point Maria (909) 866-2455
Located 2-1/2 miles east of Bear Valley Dam on the south shore in Metcalf Bay, at 603 Landlock Landing Road (Cienega Road off Big Bear Blvd.). Lake permits, fishing licenses and supplies available. Open 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, May to November, otherwise as weather and lake conditions permit.
North Shore: The north shore is generally less developed than the south shore and has great fishing spots, wildlife, and better scenic views (in this author's opinion!).
North Shore Landing
Near downtown Big Bear: Great views of town, real estate, and...
Big Bear Marina (909) 866-3218
Offers the best mountain lake fishing and water sport adventures in Southern California. In addition to canoes and kayaks, our facility has a launch ramp, slip rentals and we sell fishing licenses, bait, tackle, beer, soda, snacks and gift items. Big Bear Marina is open 7 days a week, sunrise to sunset from April to November, weather permitting. Located near the village at 500 Paine Road at Lakeview Dr.
Pine Knot Landing (909) 878-5900 Valley Wide Marine at Pine Knot
Pine Knot Landing is a full service marina located at the foot of the village on Pine Knot Ave.
Where to get gear
Purchase new kayaks, get gear, and talk repairs with Jim Dooley over at North Shore Trading Company in Fawnskin. He's real knowledgeable and just as friendly.
(909) 866-3414
