Explore The Top Things to Do
in Lake Arrowhead

Experience the centerpiece of our community with a variety of ways to enjoy the water. Take a narrated boat tour to admire the stunning shoreline architecture, or find a peaceful spot along the banks for world-class trout and bass fishing in the crisp mountain air.

Lake Arrowhead is private and cannot be directly accessed for swimming. Public access is limited to the Lake Arrowhead Queen boat tours/charters and to the McKenzie Water Ski School (Lake Arrowhead Village is also public, for shopping, dining, etc.) For other lake activities like fishing, swimming, boating, etc., we recommend Lake Gregory or Green Valley Lake, which are both close by.

Our Recommendations:

• McKenzie Water Ski School
  Open only in the summer, McKenzie Water Ski School offered experienced instruction in waterskiing, wakeboarding, and kneeboarding for all skill levels. Reservations required.
• The Lake Arrowhead Queen
  Offering one-hour narrated paddle boat tours of Lake Arrowhead or private boat charters
• Lake Gregory Regional Park
  This swimming beach requires a beach pass, but offers many incredible lake activities – including a summer inflatable waterpark, skate park, sports courts, fishing*, canoe & kayak rentals, grill rentals, and more.
• Green Valley Lake Recreation
  GVL Recreation provides a well-stocked lake for boat and shore fishing.* The lake primarily stocks trout, but you may also find bass (catch & release), crappie (great for tacos!), and an occasional redear sunfish. GVL also has non-motorized boat rentals, kayak and paddleboard rentals, swimming, and more.

*State of California Sport Fishing License required.

Discover the unique charm of our local alpine villages, each offering its own distinct personality. Wander through the Swiss-style architecture of the main village or explore neighboring mountain communities, where you’ll find a mix of local charm, historic architecture, and unique personality.

Visit the 7 Alpine Villages:

• Lake Arrowhead
  Considered the “central village,” with more than 50 waterfront shops, outlet stores, specialty shops, and restaurants.
• Blue Jay Village
  Often called “the entertainment district,” with many restaurants, shops, and a movie theater. 1 mile from Lake Arrowhead.
• Skyforest
  This former summer hunting ground for the Serrano and Paiute tribes is now a small community with stunning forest views. Home to the SkyPark at Santa’s Village and Heap’s Peak Arboreteum. 2 miles from Lake Arrowhead.
• Twin Peaks
  Known as the “Gateway to Lake Arrowhead,” Twin Peaks is a quiet, scenic residential community nestled among the pines with its own small local business district. Approximately 2-3 miles from Lake Arrowhead.
• Cedar Glen
  A historical village known for local art and antiques, as well as great hiking trails. 3 miles from Lake Arrowhead.
• Crestline
  Home to Lake Gregory, where visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, off-roading and more. 8 miles from Lake Arrowhead.
• Running Springs
  The “Gateway to the San Bernardino Mountains” and a popular year-round forest adventure area. 8 miles from Lake Arrowhead.

Savor the flavors of the mountain with a diverse culinary scene that ranges from casual lakeside grills to intimate fine dining. Whether you’re looking for a stack of famous Belgian waffles to start your day or a romantic candlelit dinner with timber-framed charm, the area’s eateries offer the perfect ambiance for every appetite.

Casual Dining:

• Belgian Waffle Works
  Family-owned restaurant featuring 17 different varieties of Belgian-style waffles, with lakeside indoor or outdoor seating. If you’re not in the mood for waffles, their lunch menu offers soup, salads, burgers, and more. Open daily for breakfast and lunch.
• Cadillac Cowboy
  This slow-smoked BBQ spot has lake views and a Nashville vibe, with country line dancing, live music, and more! Open Thurs-Mon.
• Cedar Glen Malt Shop
  Classic 50s-style diner that’s known for having “The Best Burgers in the Mountains.” Don’t skip the fries and homemade milkshakes & malts! Open daily for lunch and dinner.
• Hortencia’s at the Cliffhanger
  Traditional Mexican cuisine & margaritas with gorgeous patio views. Open daily.
• Lake Arrowhead Pizza & Deli
  Handmade pizzas and appetizers with indoor or outdoor patio dining (pet-friendly), arcade games, and lake views. Open daily.
• LouEddie’s Pizza
  Fire-roasted artisan pizzas and gourmet salads, just a few minutes from Lake Arrowhead Village. Open daily.
• Papagayo’s Mexican Cantina
  Mexican plates & cocktails with a fun atmosphere in a historic building, with a beautiful lakefront patio. Open daily.
• RB’s Steakhouse
  Steakhouse offering different daily specials, live music, and a full bar. Open daily.
• Rippin’ Bowls
  Poke bowls, plate lunches, and açaí. Open daily.
• Sunsets Island Bar & Grill
  Named “one of the best brunches in IE” by IE Foodies, offering island-inspired dishes, cocktails, and live music on select evenings. Open Thursday – Sunday.
• The Tea & Coffee Exchange
  Coffeehouse serving coffee, loose-leaf teas, paninis, smoothies, and gelato in a cozy setting.
• Village Ice Cream & Sweet Shop
  Serving ice cream, coffee, bubble waffles, churros, and more – perfect tasty treats for walking around Lake Arrowhead Village. Open until 6pm from Mon-Thurs, and until 7pm on Fri-Sun.

Fine Dining:

• BIN 189
  Fine dining at Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa, featuring elegant decor and locally-sourced ingredients. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Dianne’s Saddleback Grill
  This fine dining restaurant at the historic Saddleback Inn near Lake Arrowhead is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. Family-owned and operated, featuring an elegant ambiance, cocktail lounge, fresh seasonal pastas, and more. Reservations recommended.
• Tudor House
  Historic building and former speakeasy that has been converted to a dinner theater and concert venue, as part of Club Arrowhead in the Pines. Tudor House offers an updated menu and local beer & wine list, and serves a champagne brunch on Sundays.
• UCLA Lake Arrowhead Lodge
  Award-winning fine dining highlighting locally-sourced ingredients. Reservations required.

Embrace the serenity of the mountains with a dedicated focus on relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you’re seeking a holistic massage, a refreshing facial, or a quiet space for yoga and meditation, our local wellness offerings provide a sanctuary for the mind and body.

We can coordinate an in-room massage to ramp up your relaxation at The Kingsley. Just give us a call at (909) 719-0306 to schedule a time.

Our Recommendations:

• A Higher Level of Care Massage (massage therapy, reflexology)
• Arrowhead Fitness (fitness center, sauna, personal training)
• Blue Jay Day Spa (massage therapy)
• Health Habitat (health food store with Master Herbalist and Nutritionist)
• Lake Arrowhead Rejuvenation Spa (sauna, massage therapy, esthetician, NeuroMuscular Therapy)
• Refresh (yoga classes, art, community wellness center)
• Rim Chiropractic (chiropractor)
• Spa of the Pines at Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa (spa, fitness center, pool, steam rooms)
• Ultimate Skin (skin care) (909) 337-6538

Explore the scenic wonders of the San Bernardino National Forest through an extensive network of trails that cater to all skill levels. From gentle walks through towering pines to challenging mountain bike treks with panoramic “Rim of the World” views.

*Note: many areas require a National Forest Adventure Pass to park at the trailhead.

Our Recommendations:

• Hiking Trails
  The San Bernardino National Forest has some of the best hiking trails in the U.S., including the famous Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). The Lake Arrowhead Visitors Center can give you detailed information on local hiking trails, or you can view their Trail Map online.
• Mountain Biking
  The Lake Arrowhead area has a number of mountain biking trails that range from beginner to expert, as well as some professionally-maintained mountain biking parks at Rim Nordic, SkyPark, and Snow Valley Mountain Resort.
• ATV/Off-roading
  If you’re looking for an off-road adventure, you can rent ATVs and more from MC Adventure Rentals. They offer both guided and self-guided tours, and you can either pick up your rentals from their facility or inquire about their delivery service to the Lake Arrowhead area.

Delve into the rich history and natural wonders of the San Bernardino Mountains through engaging local exhibits. Learn about the area’s transition from a logging hub to a Hollywood retreat, or stop by a visitor center for expert tips on hidden gems and local lore.

Our Recommendations:

• Mountain History Museum
  Exhibits and education programs about the history of the Lake Arrowhead Mountain Communities and the western San Bernardino Mountains.
• Mountain Skies Astronomical Society & Observatory
  Housing a library, gift shop, observatory, education building, and even a butterfly garden, MSAS brings science education to the local community.
• Wildhaven Ranch
  Aildlife sanctuary, education and visitation center for endangered and indigenous wild animals. Reservations required.
• Lake Arrowhead Visitor Center
  Stop by for maps, brochures, or to purchase a National Forest Adventure Pass! Operated by the Lake Arrowhead Chamber of Commerce. Open Fri & Sat from 10am-4pm.

Find the perfect mountain souvenir or a unique addition to your wardrobe within our curated selection of local shops. From designer outlets and artisan galleries to eclectic boutiques filled with “lake-style” home decor, the shopping experience here is as scenic as it is diverse.

Our Recommendations:

• Art Galleries
  Mountain Arts Gallery
• Clothes & Gifts
  Sondra’s of Lake Arrowhead, The Studio Boutique, Black Dog Shoppe, Evergreen Curated Goods, Wildflowers at the Lake, Bohemian Village, Pendleton Outlet, Coach Outlet, Hearth & Sage General Store, Dorothy’s at the Lake
• Sporting Goods
  Leroy’s Board Shop
• Furniture & Antiques
  Country Furniture, The Lake House, Timberline in the Glen, Jeannine’s Home Furnishings
• Grocers
  Jensen’s Finest Foods, Stater Bros. Markets

Unwind after a day of exploration with a taste of local mountain spirits and craft brews. From cozy tasting rooms featuring curated wine lists to lively lakeside taprooms and historic taverns, you’ll find plenty of inviting spots to toast to your getaway.

Our Recommendations:

• Jetties Waterfront Kitchen & Drink
  Jetties features a full-service bar with lunch & dinner counter service, so every seat has a view of the lake. The relaxed atmosphere, delicious food made from scratch, and creative cocktails make this the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful day on the lake – even for a large group. Open daily.
• Lake Arrowhead Brewing Co
  This local craft brewery and tasting room is family-friendly! Scan the QR code at your table and get poke bowls, açaí bowls, or chicken teriyaki plates from Rippin’ Bowls delivered right to your table. Open daily.
• Lake Arrowhead Sports Grille
  This relaxed sportsbar in downtown Blue Jay is the perfect place to eat, drink, and watch the game. Enjoy a wide selection of wine, beer, and cocktails – along with appetizers, wings, and more. Open daily.
• Lakefront Tap Room
  Family-owned restaurant & bar with patio seating and panoramic views of Lake Arrowhead. Enjoy seasonal cocktails, 44+ rotating taps, and a hand-crafted menu. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Live music on Thursday nights!
• Littlebear Bottle Shop
  World-class neighborhood wine, beer & spirits shop located in Skyforest. You can find glassware, bar tools, and gifts here – as well as an eclectic selection of craft spirits, sustainable wine, local microbrews, and more. Open daily from 11am-6pm.
• North Shore Tavern
  Located at UCLA Lake Arrowhead Lodge with a cozy atmosphere, featuring local craft beers, handcrafted cocktails, and wine – along with elevated pub fare. Open daily.
• Sycamore Ranch
  Award-winning local winery & cidery in Crestline. Wines are produced from the estate vineyard and other Central California Coast vineyards, and ciders are produced from heritage orchards throughout the San Bernardino Mountains. Tasting room is open by appointment only.
• Tiki Republic
  Tiki bar and restaurant in the Lake Arrowhead Village, voted “Best Cocktail 2025” by Inland Empire Foodies. Open Thurs-Sun nights for happy hour, karaoke night, open mic night, and DJs!

Immerse yourself in the local flora and fauna with a visit to our beautifully maintained parks and arboretums. These tranquil spaces offer educational nature trails, scenic picnic spots, and a firsthand look at the diverse wildlife that calls these mountains home.

*Many of the parks and picnic areas require fees as part of the San Bernardino National Forest area. Day rates are often available but if you think you’ll visit multiple locations within the National Forest, we recommend purchasing either a monthly or daily Adventure Pass to save on fees (or go on one of the Forest Service’s Fee-Free Days.)

Our Recommendations:

• Heap’s Peak Arboreteum
  Stroll through the botanical gardens and educational forest walking trails.
• Lake Gregory Regional Park
  Located in Crestline, the park includes 2.3 miles of hiking trails, a summer inflatable waterpark and swim beach, dog parks, year round non-powered boating and fishing. Must purchase a beach pass to access the beach area and related activities.
• Baylis Park Picnic Area
  A popular roadside stop for visitors traveling up into the mountains. Strawberry Peak Fire Lookout Tower is nearby and presents a spectacular view of the San Bernardino Valley below.
• Crest Park Picnic Area
  This picnic area is a great stop on your way to Lake Arrowhead, near the Strawberry Peak Fire Lookout Tower.
• MacKay Park
  The only public park in the Lake Arrowhead area, MacKay Park has a picnic area with barbeques, walking paths, a playground and basketball court, a dog park, and even a small rock-climbing wall. There is ample parking and restrooms.
• National Children’s Forest Picnic Area
  A great summer picnic where kids and adults can learn and use land management practices as well as rock climbing, hiking, camping, and educational offerings. Closed in the winter.
• Switzer Park Picnic Area
  Another convenient picnic area off the highway near Skyforest offering majestic views of the San Bernardino Valley on clear days.
• Twin Peaks Recreation Complex & Community Park
  A great family-friendly and dog-friendly place that includes the Harich Ball Field, Twin Peaks playground, picnic shelters, walking trail, community garden, dog park, restrooms, outdoor fitness equipment, and the Twin Peaks Senior/Community Center.

When the snow begins to fall, the area transforms into a premier winter wonderland. From exhilarating days on the ski slopes and snowy sledding hills to the simple magic of ice skating under the stars, there are endless ways to embrace the chill of the season.

Our Recommendations:

• Rim Nordic Cross-Country Ski & Snow Shoe Area
• SkyPark at Santa’s Village
• Snow Sledding in the San Bernardino National Forest
• Snow Valley Mountain Resort
• Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park

Celebrate the bounty of the region at our seasonal markets, where locals and visitors gather for fresh, organic offerings. It’s the perfect place to pick up artisanal snacks, handmade crafts, and farm-to-table treats while soaking in the vibrant community atmosphere.

Explore Local Markets:

• Running Springs Farmer’s Market and Artisan Faire
• Twin Peaks Farmers Market
• Rim of the World Farmers Market

There is always a reason to celebrate in Lake Arrowhead, with a year-round calendar of community gatherings. Enjoy everything from summer concert series and classic car shows to seasonal holiday parades and fine arts festivals that bring the village to life.

Events in the Village:

Check the Lake Arrowhead Village Events Calendar for details about the following events:

• Lake Arrowhead Easter Egg Hunt
• 4th of July Fireworks
• Halloween Spooktacular
• Christmas Tree Lighting
• Annual Bonfire
• Summer Concert Series
• Lake Arrowhead Brewfest
• Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest

Events Nearby:

• Cork & Hops Festival
• Blue Jay Jazz Festival