It’s that time of year again! The weather is changing and the mountains have a light white dust. We personally love this time of year, and one of our favorite spots is only a few hours drive — the beautiful city of Big Bear Lake, CA!

From munchies, to things to do, as well as our favorite a-frame Airbnb — Cresta Chalet — Big Bear definitely has some hidden gems we can’t get enough of!

Where to Stay in Big Bear

Cresta Chalet | A-Frame w/Hot Tub & Game Room

Cresta Chalet by Hygge Home Rentals is located in the heart of Big Bear Lake, CA — only a short walk from the slopes at Snow Summit and about a mile away from the village. Cresta Chalet is the cutest a-frame on the block, complete with a fully remodeled modern cabin feel on the inside. When you first pull up you’ll probably notice the windows scaling the front of the house from top to bottom, as well as the wrap around deck — perfect for whatever mood you’re feeling. Whether you want to venture outside and watch the sunset through the trees, or stay warm indoors and watch the colors of the sky change through the windows.

The house itself has not been on the Airbnb market long. It’s beautifully remodled and incredibly clean, it was probably one of the best airbnb’s we’ve ever stayed at. They’ve really thought of all the small things for this property — with a firepit and jaccuzzi out back, and a game room inside, as well as a charger for any electric vehicles — you won’t be missing a thing while you enjoy your stay at the Cresta Chalet.

Jacuzzi Day in Big Bear Lake, CA at the Cresta Chalet

When you first walk up to the front door, you’ll notice the cutest little bear ready to greet you! After we say hello to Mr. Bear, we walk inside to see a beautifully remodeled kitchen and dining area, complete with brand new stainless steel appliances and every gismo and gadget you might need — wine glasses, an air fryer, etc.

To the right of the kitchen and dining area, you’ll notice the massive living area — with a beautiful view out the front windows. The living area is complete with a fireplace, cozy chairs, and the most comfortable couch ever! The owners really put their time and thought into every detail — making sure that you’re comfortable (and warm) throughout your whole stay.

We personally enjoyed some wine from another one of our favorites — Josh Cellars — while we sat by the fire and enjoyed some peace and quiet. But the TV is also fully equipped with an Apple TV, perfect for streaming any of your favorite shows!

To the left of the kitchen, there are two bedrooms and one bathroom. the First bedroom is a equipped with bunk beds, perfect for kids or any friends who might be joining you on your stay.

The second bedroom has a queen bed, where you’ll see some of the small touches come alive. With perfectly folded towels, and a warm soft blanket for anyone who needs it, the owners of Cresta Chalet are pros.

Up next we recommend venturing upstairs, where you’ll find the best part of the whole place — the Master Bedroom and Bathroom, as well as the the Game Room!

The Game room is to the right as your walk up the stairs — and we’re not talking about just a few board games here (which they do have, of course)…. Cresta Chalet has a full foosball table and two old school arcade machines! It’s been a while since we’ve played NBA Jam and Golden Tee Golf, but boy did the nostalgia hit us!

Next is the beautiful master bedroom and bathroom. We loved the loft type feel of the bedroom, with the vaulted ceilings and some great mood lighting! The master bed was also incredibly comfortable — it’s always hard to find king beds in Airbnb’s so we were rather excited to see the memory foam king bed.

And once again, a perfect example of where the owners focus on the little things here — perfectly folded towels, a soft warm blanket, and tons of extra pillows!

Beautiful Master Bedroom at Cresta Chalet

So whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway for two, a house to share with friends, or even a family getaway — we highly recommend staying at the Cresta Chalet by Hygge Home Rentals while you explore all the fun things there is to do in Big Bear Lake, CA!

What to do in Big Bear

Big bear has a lot to do both in the winter and the summer — whether you’re a skier, a hot chocolate sipper, or a mountain biker — you’ll find something to do in Big Bear during any time of the year! Here’s some of our favorite spots in town….

Best Spot for a Quick Breakfast: Dank Donuts

This spot is a local favorite — the real breakfast of champions. We hit up Dank donuts every time were in town. They have one of the best breakfast burritos we’ve had while skiing up in the mountains and their donuts are pretty bomb too. Chris recommends trying their new Dank Donuts Cold Brew Coffee (and he can be coffee snob!). Ashley recommends pairing your meal with a Juneshine, which they also happen to carry!

Best Spot for Sweets: North Pole Fudge & Ice Cream Co

This spot has been here for longer than we can remember. They have a little something for everyone — whether you’re an ice-cream person, chocolate person, sour person, or all of the above like Ashley is… you’ll be able to find whatever you’re looking for here! Heads up the line can be long, but it goes pretty fast and is 100% worth the wait!

A Hidden Gem: Mineshaft Coaster

Located at the Alpine Slides at Magic Mountain, Big Bear has their own Rollercoast! The first and only mountain coaster in California. Enjoy mountain scenery on your way up, then you control the speed down a mile-long track! Experience a variety of thrill ride features such as steep descents, dips, twists, hairpin turns, tunnels, and 360-degree corkscrews!

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is open year round, as long as weather permits. On top of the mineshaft coaster, they also have snow activities, a water park, mini golf, go karts, and so much more! It’s a really fun spot for the whole family!

Cresta Chalet Giveaway Extra Credit!

We are so excited to announce we have partnered up with Hygge Home Rentals and Cresta Chalet to giveaway a stay at their stunning Airbnb* Enter the form below as well as follow the rules on the post to gain additional entries as well as receive updates from SDFoodies and Hygge Home Rentals!

*some restrictions apply, based on availability

Cozy Weekend Getaway: Big Bear Lake