Living in San Diego, I like to head up to the snow for a cozy weekend at least once a year. Located in the mountains of the San Bernardino National Forest, Lake Arrowhead makes for the perfect getaway. While there are plenty of activities to enjoy year-round (backpacking, biking, water sports, etc.), my favorite time of year is winter.
The town is about 1.5 hours from Los Angeles and 2.5 from San Diego. Keep reading for how to spend the perfect winter weekend in the “Alps of Southern California.”
Where to stay in Lake Arrowhead
Lakehaus Lodge 
The best way to experience a San Diego weekend getaway to the mountains is with a fun friend group. Rent a big house with beautiful views, play board games, and get cozy in front of the fire. We stayed at a brand new vacation rental – the Lakehaus Lodge – which I can’t recommend enough!
It was a short ~10 minute walk into Lake Arrowhead village, there are gorgeous views of the lake, plenty of board games, a hot tub, and an overall cozy setup. We actually all ended up doing a few days of “work from home” here as well.
A few other highlights:
- Sleeps 12
- Lake views
- Game room
- Luxury sheets, decor & products
Things to do in Lake Arrowhead
While I’m a big fan of the “hang out at the lodge” life, there’s plenty to do in the area. A few ideas:
Explore the Lake Arrowhead Village
The Village is the hub of activity in town. From plenty of dining options to shops, there is lots to keep you busy! A few of my favorite shops:
Take a boat ride on the lake with the Lake Arrowhead Queen – See the beautiful views and learn the history of the area.
This is a unique way to get a different perspective of the area. You’ll take an hour-long tour on the lake where the guide shares the history of the area and points out some of the historic (and famous) homes.
- Location: Lake Arrowhead Village
- Tickets: Range from ~$20 – $25
- Duration: ~1 hour (and tours run about every 1.5 hours)
Go snow tubing at the Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park – A great activity for kids and adults alike.
If you’re looking for a classic snowy activity, snow tubing is always fun for families and friends. The Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park is about a 25-minute drive out of town.
- Location: 34600 CA-18, Green Valley Lake, CA 92341
- Tickets: $20/person/hour (cash only)
- Pro Tip: There are slopes for differing levels.
Head to the slopes at the Snow Valley Mountain Resort.
We felt like skiing for the afternoon and didn’t want to go all the way to Big Bear. Snow Valley Mountain Resort makes for the perfect location. It’s about a 25-minute drive from Lake Arrowhead Village and is usually way less crowded than Bear Summit. There’s a good mix of beginner and advanced slopes.
- Location: 35100 CA-18, Running Springs, CA 92382
- Pro Tip: Book your tickets online as they’re cheaper and can often sell out.
Where to eat in Lake Arrowhead
I’ll be honest – we did a lot of cooking at the house! However, there are a few spots we’ve tried over the years (that locals also recommend).
Breakfast & Coffee
- LuluBelle’s Coffee House & Bakery – Technically in Running Springs, it’s a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and coffee.
- Belgian Waffle Works – The best breakfast spot in the village and a local staple since 1982.
- Tea & Coffee Exchange – Not amazing, but if you’re on the go and looking for something quick, it fits the caffeine bill.
Booze & Brews
- Lake Arrowhead Brewery – A cool hang out spot on a warm-ish day. They have food trucks on weekends which creates a cool vibe.
- The Taproom – Located in the village, it’s a great lunch with a view. This upscale bar serves a wide variety of drinks and a big menu.
- The Grapevine – For the wine bistro lovers. Grab a glass of wine and charcuterie board, and enjoy the view of the lake.
Lunch & Dinner
- Puglia – A romantic authentic Italian restaurant located in the neighboring town of Blue Jay. Make a reservation in advance to guarantee a table.
- Jetties Waterfront Kitchen & Drink – Another great lunch with a view. They do also serve dinner and they have a great sunset view as well.
- Hortencias at the Cliffhanger – Upscale Mexican restaurant with an amazing sunset view.
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