Lifeguarded Beaches in Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake has only ONE lifeguarded beach: McDill Swim Beach at Meadow Park. All other beaches are swim-at-your-own-risk. Here's everything you need to know about supervised vs. unsupervised swimming options.
Found 1 beach in this category
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.
Water Safety Tips
- Swim Beach (McDill) is the ONLY lifeguarded beach at Big Bear Lake — open Friday–Sunday, 11am–4pm in season
- Lifeguards typically on duty June-August, dawn to dusk
- All other Big Bear beaches are swim-at-your-own-risk
- Children should always be supervised near water, even at lifeguarded beaches
- Water temperature is cold (65-70°F in summer) due to 6,750+ ft elevation
- Stay within 50 feet of shore or 20 feet from a dock per regulations
Explore More Beaches
Looking for different beach options? Check out our complete beach directory or browse by category.