***One of my favorite places in the whole wide world!*** Why? I can bring my dog to doggy beach, classic rock tunes, BBQ, cheap drinks (by LA standards), it has amazing lakeside views and live band karaoke!
My husband and I planned our after wedding brunch at the restaurant a couple weeks ago. John the owner is fantastic! The food was wonderful! Everyone felt very welcome. Staff was super friendly. He even gave my husband and I a congratulatory bottle of champagne! So Nice! The clientele at B's are also super friendly. I cannot tell you how many times I've struck up random conversations with people about our dogs and left feeling like there are still good people in this world.
Yes it can be remodeled, but it's Big Bear! My dog knows the name "B's". His ears perk up every time.
B's Boathouse is definitely my favorite Big Bear Bar -- this feels like the real, old school Big Bear to us. Â Very cool, dive bar w/ incredible location, right on the lake, pool tables, lake-side patio w/ live music on the weekends. Lots of locals, and we always seem to meet some interesting characters here. One winter, "one eyed Jack" moseyed up to the bar and sat next to us, explained to us how he got his name (don't want to spoil it for you, but 3 words - prison, knife fight), and proceeded to pop out his glass eye, show it to us, and ask us out. Impressive, but we settled for a game of pool.
Then in the summer, there's a tiki bar set up outside and you can hang out on the beach w/ your kids or dogs and enjoy a cold beverage or two. Â They even have 3 horseshoe pits and a really nice sand volleyball court - fun!
It's definitely not upscale - kind of casual shack atmosphere; plastic chairs and tables set up on the rocky beach. Outside tiki bar is generally weekends only and cash only, but reasonable prices - around $4-5 for beer, wine or mimosa; cocktails available inside. Beach is rocky, so if you/your kids want to venture in, might want to bring water shoes. Â There's a dock there, too, so you can pull your boat right up if there's a slip available. Â Very cool spot.
Note: This review is for the Bar (B's Boathouse) not the restaurant (B's BBQ); separate review for that. Â Also, sometimes service at the bar can be a little slow if you're not a local. Please give all your patrons the same great service you give the locals; thanks!
This place earns 10 1/2 stars purely for the setting and the atmosphere. Â It's a hidden spot at Big Bear Lake that really only locals know about. Â It's one of the only DOG beaches! Â They have outdoor seating on the beach - nothing classy, just picnic tables....but who cares! Â You order at the bar, sit out on the beach and watch your dog frolic in doggie paradise.
The people here are all totally cool and are welcoming. Â
They have a bloody mary bar that is probably the best drinks at the lake!
As for the food - well, that's another story. Â I think it's more about the bar and chilling on the beach. Â Prices on food are high, but this is a tourist area. Â Drink prices are reasonable.
I've been to Big Bear a few times this year and always find myself back here for a brunch drink and to enjoy the beach!
Really nice location right on the lake with great views. The drinks are good and are priced pretty standardly. The only real drawback was the decor, or lack thereof. If youre looking for a quick drink and a good view, this is your place. If you're looking for fancy - keep walking. You definitely want to sit outside at this place.
Review Source:Ooops, I posted my review to the other on site restaurant I've never been in:
We speak to the bar and entertainment.
The live music is outstanding! Â Weekend afternoons is a a retro band that's played there forever.
Sunday Night Karaoke LIVE BACKUP band is a first for us. Â Most participants are extraordinary, some driving 60 miles one way just to be there.
Most impressive is the bar, Matthew can chat you up and invent a drink from scratch that is unbelievable based on your tastes and favorites. Â He and John [owner?] sing karaoke and support Adaptive Sport Activity.
What a great time!