🌊 About Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is a man-made reservoir spanning approximately 3,000 acres with 22 miles of shoreline. It's the largest recreational lake in the San Bernardino National Forest and offers a wide variety of water activities from spring through fall.

Water Activities

Pontoon Boats

The most popular rental. Fits 8–12 people for a relaxing lake cruise. Perfect for families and groups. $130–$180/hr depending on size and marina.

Kayaking

Single and tandem kayaks available at multiple marinas. Explore coves and shoreline at your own pace. $25–$45/hr.

Paddleboarding

SUP rentals at most marinas. The calm mountain lake is perfect for beginners. $25–$45/hr. Early morning is the calmest.

Jet Skis

Personal watercraft for high-speed lake fun. Must be 18+ to rent, 16+ to operate. $165/hr at most marinas. Safety briefing required.

Fishing Boats

Motor boats for lake fishing available at several marinas. $65–$95/hr. See our fishing page for regulations & tips →

Sailing

Sailboat rentals and lessons available. Big Bear Sailing Association hosts races and events. Beautiful wind patterns on the lake.

Pirate Ship Time Bandit

One of Big Bear's most unique experiences — cruise the lake on a real pirate ship! The Time Bandit is a 50-foot custom-built pirate galleon offering scenic cruises on Big Bear Lake. Kids and adults love it.

  • Adult Ticket: $44
  • Child Ticket (3–12): $34
  • Under 3: Free
  • Duration: ~90 minutes
  • Season: May through October (weather permitting)
  • Departs from: Holloway's Marina, 398 Edgemoor Rd
  • • Book online: bigbearpirateshipcom

🏴‍☠️ What to Expect

  • • Interactive pirate adventure with the crew
  • • Water cannons and sword fights for kids
  • • Scenic lake views and wildlife spotting
  • • Snack bar on board
  • • Great for birthdays and private events
  • • One of the top-rated activities in Big Bear!

Rental Marinas

MarinaAddressRentals AvailableNotes
Holloway's Marina 398 Edgemoor Rd Pontoons, fishing boats, kayaks, SUPs, pedal boats Home of the Pirate Ship Time Bandit. Full-service marina with fuel dock. One of the largest on the lake.
Pine Knot Marina 439 Pine Knot Blvd Pontoons, jet skis, kayaks, SUPs, fishing boats, pedal boats Located in the Village area. Walking distance to shops and restaurants. Very popular — book ahead in summer.
Captain John's Fawn Harbor Marina 39976 N Shore Dr Pontoons, fishing boats, kayaks, SUPs North shore location. Great for fishing the quieter north end of the lake. Bait and tackle available.
Big Bear Marina 500 Paine Ct Pontoons, speedboats, jet skis, kayaks, fishing boats East end of the lake near the dam. Full-service with fuel, pump-out, and boat launch. Speedboat rentals here.
Pleasure Point Marina 603 Landlock Landing Pontoons, fishing boats, kayaks, SUPs, pedal boats South shore location. Quieter marina, good for families. Scenic views of the north shore mountains.

Typical Rental Prices

WatercraftHourly RateHalf Day (4 hrs)Full Day (8 hrs)Capacity
Pontoon Boat (small)$130–$150$400–$480$700–$8508–10 people
Pontoon Boat (large)$160–$180$500–$600$850–$1,10010–14 people
Jet Ski (PWC)$165$500+$800+1–2 riders
Fishing Boat (motor)$65–$95$220–$300$400–$5502–4 people
Kayak (single)$25–$35$80–$100$140–$1801 person
Kayak (tandem)$35–$45$100–$140$180–$2402 people
Stand-Up Paddleboard$25–$45$80–$120$140–$2001 person
Pedal Boat$25–$352–4 people

Prices are approximate and vary by marina and season. Peak summer weekends are highest. Book early for best availability.

Lake Rules & Safety

📋 Lake Regulations

  • Speed Limit: 35 MPH on the lake
  • No-Wake Zones: Within 200 ft of shore, docks, and swim areas
  • Life Jackets: Required for all children under 13 on boats
  • Lake Season: Typically April/May through October (varies by water level)
  • No swimming from boats in the main channel
  • No glass containers on the lake

⚠️ Safety Tips

  • Wear sunscreen: UV is intense at 6,750 ft — you'll burn fast
  • Hydrate: High altitude + sun + water reflection = dehydration
  • Wind: Afternoon winds can pick up quickly — check forecast
  • Water temp: Lake is COLD even in summer (55–68°F)
  • Be aware: Jet skis and boats share the water — watch for other craft