Free Big Bear Beaches
Enjoying Big Bear Lake doesn't require spending money. These 5 free beaches offer lake access, swimming, and amenities without admission fees - just parking and your swimming gear.
Found 5 beaches in this category
Boulder Bay Park
Fee: Free
Season: Open 24 hours year-round
Boulder Bay Park is a scenic gem on the southwest shore near Big Bear Dam, featuring impressive natural boulders framing stunning lake and mountain vi...
Ski Beach Park
Fee: Free
Season: Open year-round, dawn to dusk
Ski Beach Park is a 2-acre lakeside recreation area on the south shore, right next to Meadow Park. This family-friendly destination offers a perfect c...
East Boat Ramp Beach (Carol Morrison Launch)
Fee: Free beach access
Season: Open year-round
Phone: (909) 866-5200
The East Boat Ramp Beach (Carol Morrison Public Boat Launch) on the north shore is especially beloved by parents with young children because the water...
West Boat Ramp Beach (Duane Boyer Launch)
Fee: Free beach access
Season: Open year-round
Phone: (909) 866-2917
The West Boat Ramp (Duane Boyer Public Boat Launch) is located on the north shore approximately 1.5 miles west of Fawnskin and closer to Big Bear Dam....
Big Bear Dam Beach
Fee: Free
Season: Open year-round, dawn to dusk
Big Bear Dam Beach is a natural, undeveloped swimming spot on the north shore near the Big Bear Dam structure at the lake's western end. Unlike manicu...
Where to stay
Turning a beach stop into a Big Bear overnight?
Use the beach list to choose the part of the lake you want to spend time on, then compare nearby stays before you commit. Central/Village lodging is easiest for Swim Beach and restaurants; west-side stays fit Boulder Bay; east/central stays work well for Ski Beach and the boat ramps.
The compare-stays button is an affiliate link; it does not change our beach, trail, or lodging recommendations.
Cost Comparison & What "Free" Means
Free beaches have no admission fees for beach access, but may have parking fees or require Adventure Passes for trailhead parking nearby.
- Boulder Bay, Ski Beach, Boat Ramps, Big Bear Dam: Completely free (no admission, free parking)
- Grout Bay: No admission fee, but $5 Adventure Pass required for parking
- Swim Beach (McDill): Paid admission — $10 adults 13+, $5 youth 3–12, seniors 60+, and military/veterans; under 3 free. Parking is free. Hours & prices →
- Holloway's Marina: Day-use fees vary, commercial operation
Pro tip: Free beaches save your family $10-20+ compared to paid options, perfect for budget-conscious Big Bear trips!
Explore More Beaches
Looking for different beach options? Check out our complete beach directory or browse by category.