Venturing to Big Bear Lake in the summer is like being sucked into a vortex. Everyone smiles in the Southern California town, waving at strangers with one hand while the other holds a leash to an equally content pure-bred pup. Maybe the dogs are so happy because there is a specialty dog store that looks like a pottery barn. After spoiling their four-legged babies with down-stuffed cushions and organic treats, humans can make their way to the neighboring specialty beef jerky store.
A chariot of salt and pepper stallions cool down in the parking lot of the village’s most popular eatery, Teddy Bear Café. Everything on the menu is made with butter and there is no gluten free option, but it's perfect to satisfy a craving for bacon cheese pancakes with a side of bacon.
Make your way across the road to the sunny outside bar, filled with daisies centered by a woman singing Sheryl Crow’s "Soak Up The Sun." While you scan the assortment of mimosas, make friends with the foursome of 60-something ladies sipping on their bloody marys.
As for afternoon activities? Pontoons and jet skis are available at the neighboring town of Fawnskin. Or you can just sit in the clean sands, but beware of the ducks, they’ll want your food and once you give them one nibble they’ll never stop begging.
Following an afternoon nap by the lake, a night on the town can include the bowling barn (in an actual barn) or karaoke and grub at the Murray’s Saloon and Eatery. The people here go from smiley to slap happy with a few shots. There is nothing quite like ending the summer with someone singing an off-key version of “Love Shack” with a mic in one hand and whiskey in the other. Everyone cheers regardless of talent.
No, this is not the big city, but it is fabulous. If only I booked another night to try my luck at a round of lazer tag at the Funplex. Maybe next summer.
