tours in big bear

Ziplining is open! Click here to book for heart-pounding fun amidst breathtaking views!

Action Tours

Zipline and Snowshoe tours in Big Bear Lake, California!

It's Time for a Big Bear Lake Adventure!

We have something for everyone at Action Tours! Come hang out with us and adventure to your heart’s content.

Zipline Tour

Snowshoe tour, gift certificates, try our “zip & sip” add-on for only $30.

Enjoy a wine or craft beer tasting in addition to your Zipline Tour! (Ages 21+)

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Calling All Thrill-Seekers & Adventurers in California!

Nestled in the heart of the San Bernardino National Forest, Action Tours is your premier destination for adventure in Southern California!

Get outdoors and experience the beautiful mountains and forests. Our tours are a blast for the entire family. We offer activities year-round, and cater each experience specifically to you. Our certified tour guides are knowledgeable and know how to give you an unforgettable experience.

One of the Top 3 Things to Do in Big Bear Lake

A super-fantastic day zipping through the treetops of Big Bear in gorgeous weather, which was made all the more enjoyable by a very courteous, friendly, and professional staff patiently taking each and every safety precaution required. A special shout-out to Jenn in the office. Splendid, indeed!

Took my grandsons, 10 and 8. First, you have an information tutorial and safety lecture, then a van takes you up the mountain to the first stop. All the drivers are fun and will answer any questions. There are 9 zip lines, with a stop half was to rest and have some water. There is a cameraman taking shots all along the way. The entire event takes a little over 3 hours. It was a really fun experience and the boys loved it!

My 11 year old son and I did this together and we both had a lot of fun. The guides are very helpful and have a great sense of humor. Everyone on the tour was accommodated. If you're a little apprehensive about doing this don't be. The views are amazing and the zip lines are a lot of fun. My only regret is that I wish it had lasted longer.

Went out with Phil for a wonderful morning snowshoe tour. Loved it! Action tours was great at scheduling and accommodation. First time snowshoeing, wasn't sure what to expect. It was easy and so peaceful! I will definitely be back. Great option for Moms and Dads not interested in the waiting at the crazy resorts while their kids are snowboarding.

I've never gone zip lining before. There is a lot of trust you have to put into someone who is making sure you are going to be safe as you go zooming high off the ground from one tree stand to another. The good news is these guys are as good as it gets. At no time did you anyone feel unsafe or rushed. It really is a lot of fun. I would highly recommend Action Zipline Tours.

We are a family of 5 with a 13, 12 and 10 year old...and did I mention, mama is afraid of heights? I can honestly say I had an amazing time (although I'm still afraid of heights). This is a perfect zipline tour for newbies. They start you out slow and easy before hurling you down the long and fast one. The guides on the ziplines are so helpful and very encouraging - even when you scream through the treetops. I would absolutely, definitely, put this on your "to-do" list.

Big Bear Cruzer is a 90 minute narrated tour sharing the unique history and sites of Big Bear Lake and surrounding area.

The BIG BEAR CRUZER

This is the newest tour boat on the lake, proving a smaller setting holding 25 passengers it is open air with a sun shade.

Tours are guaranteed to depart daily with no minimum passenger requirements. Call for departure times and reservations.” *private tours available

Worry Free Summer: All Rentals Include A Flexible Cancellation Policy Up To 14 Days Before You Arrive!

Speak With A Big Bear Specialist Now!

Tours in Big Bear

Founded in 1907, we have served over 1.3 million guest nights over the last 113+ years.

Taking time to unwind and relax is best done in Big Bear, California. This sensational vacation destination offers up the best of lakeside living, a mountainous backdrop and terrain dotted with forest. Beyond the natural beauty, Big Bear hosts a variety of delicious restaurants , charming boutique shops, and options for discovery and exploration that are unmatched. Enjoy the best of the area while leaving stress far behind when you book a tour or two that provides a comprehensive overview of this fantastic locale. Here are the top five Big Bear tours you won’t want to miss out on during your stay.

Pirate Ship Tour of Big Bear Lake

Take a swashbuckling trip back in time when you book a tour of Big Bear Lake on the Big Bear Pirate Ship. Docked at 398 Edgemore Drive, a Big Bear Pirate Ship tour happens daily and includes live music, costumed pirates and endless fun for everyone in the family! Tours are offered daily every two hours, with the first ship pushing off at 10am and the last ship of the day setting sail at 6pm. The ship, The Time Bandit, has been sailing the waters of Big Bear Lake since 1998, but that doesn’t mean this tour is stale! Each captain lends a unique twist to the tour with their own personal touch, meaning no two tours will ever be the same. Tickets are $29 for adults, $27 for seniors, and $21 for children aged 3-15. Kids under three sail free! If the scheduled tour times don’t work for your party, or you are planning a special event, privately chartered tours are also available. Your tour includes 90 minutes of fun and beautiful Big Bear scenery. Learn about the lake while playing the part of an authentic pirate complete with the lingo and lots of laughter on these Big Bear lake tours .

Big Bear Tours by Jeep

With headquarters at 42011 Big Bear Boulevard, the Big Bear Jeep Experience is one you won’t want to miss out on. Once you rent your Jeep, you’ll be guided by an experienced driver who leads the way to off-road paths that are packed with adventure and fun. You drive your own Jeep, communicating with your tour guide through a two-way radio and following them along your path. There are several different tour options available, ranging from timid sight-seeing adventures all the way up to thrilling rock climbing excursions! Bring the whole family along for an action packed and hands-on way to explore the natural beauty of Big Bear and learn about local history and wildlife. Big Bear Jeep Experience offers several tour options daily. Plenty of stops are built into the tours for taking pictures while the adrenaline pumping moments are guaranteed. However, these tours fill up fast, so you will definitely want to book in advance to ensure you get your ideal Jeep tour experience. Luckily, no matter which tour you choose, you are guaranteed to have an awesome time!

Take to the trails on two-wheel when you book a customized bike tour with the experts at XEN MTB the next time you’re in Big Bear. Guests have options to book experiences according to time preferences, difficulty level or time of day. XEN MTB currently offers two main tours in the Big Bear area. The first is from Fawnskin to Hannah Flats + Gray’s Peak. This nearly 13-mile ride is rated for those at a strong beginner riding level, so it would be a great option for families with older kids or kids who are strong bike riders. This tour starts and ends along Big Bear Lake and offers stunning views throughout. Their other main Big Bear tour is a 14.4-mile journey from Skyline to Pine Knot. Rated for intermediate bikers, this tour takes you along the lake and through the mountains of the nearby ski resorts. Of course, you can always customize your tour to suit your needs! From cross-country climbs to a family cruise, no request is too big or too small when it comes to experiencing the land and making the most of amazing views.

Segway Tours

Action Segway Tours is the way to go when you’re ready to experience Big Bear using a most unique mode of transportation. Located at 40957 Big Bear Boulevard, Action Tours is proud to offer guests the option for year-round Segway experiences thanks to a fleet of Segways that are designed to take on everything from sun to snow. Enjoy back roads and scenic trails when you book this tour led by a friendly and knowledgeable Big Bear guide.

Miss Liberty Paddlewheel Tour

Savor the sights and sounds of Big Bear Lake when you book a 90-minute tour on board the Miss Liberty paddlewheel boat. As history comes to life, you’ll be thrilled by the comfort and views offered up on this historic vessel. Learn the history of the Big Bear area dating back to 1845 while you take in stunning sites throughout the tour. Miss Liberty may look old fashioned, but she was recently renovated in 2006 and is fully decked out with a shaded deck, modern restrooms, and refreshments. The boat can accommodate 125 guests, and is wheelchair accessible, so no one has to miss out on the fun! This is a family-friendly tour that keeps everyone engaged from start to finish.

Enjoy Big Bear Today

When all the Big Bear lake tours  come to an end, be sure you’re returning to a rental home away from home in Big Bear that’s comfortable and convenient. Contact us today for more information on our many properties and to begin planning your next Big Bear adventure!

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Slide title

Adults 18-64  $39.00

Teens 13-17/Seniors 65+    $36.00

Children 3-12  $29.00

Lap Children 3 & Under are FREE

We accept all major credit cards

*Prices are subject to change, especially on Holiday weekends and high or low volume periods.

Departure Times

Tours are approximately 75-90 minutes.

Monday-Thursday*

12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM

Friday-Sunday*

10 AM, 12 PM, 2PM, 4 PM, 6 PM

sunset cruise

*subject to availability

Departs from Holloway's Marina 398 Edgemoor Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Private Tours / Chartering

Rent out the entire pirate ship for:

Large Groups

Private Parties

Birthday Parties

Film Production

Starting at $450/hour .

The Ship charters out privately (2-hour minimum). Although we recommend 20, it holds up to 25 individuals on board.

Pirate Ship Cruise & Tours at Holloway's Marina

Set sail aboard big bear's only pirate ship.

The Big Bear Lake Pirate Ship at Holloway's Marina was named after the movie she was featured in, the Time Bandit, and has been sailing these mountain waters since 1998. 

Join us for some great music, corny jokes, stunning scenery, and historical enrichment onboard the Big Bear Lake Time Bandit. Tours are publicly available on a limited basis, or you can charter the whole ship for your birthday, function, brunch, etc. Children under 3 are FREE! 

No tour is ever exactly the same - you’ll enjoy yourself if it’s your first or fifteenth time aboard. We have a rotating cast of captains and crew who each bring their own flavor to the tour. 

● 75-90-minute Narrated Tours Every Day 

● Full Bar On Board (Valid Id Or You’ll Walk The Plank!)

● Treasure Chest Surprise For The Kiddos

● Private Charters And Tours Available

What is the Time Bandit?

Time Bandit, the Big Bear Lake Pirate Ship, is a 1/3rd scale replica of a Spanish Galleon and was built by a Father and his Son from the late 60’s through the 70’s in their back yard.

It was then used in the 1981 movie release “Time Bandit.” Later it was used as a tour boat in LA Harbor, and Newport Beach at the Fun Zone. The last part of the Ship’s life at the ocean was as a private residence.

Then it was purchased by Ed & Kelly Kinsley,  refurbished, modified a bit to include more passengers, and moved to Big Bear Lake to operate as a tour boat. It took 28 different permits and 2.5 days to transport the Ship from Dana Point Boatyard to Holloway’s Marina where it is presently berthed!

Questions or Concerns?

Pirate ship, useful links.

(909) 403-4053

[email protected]

38573 North Shore Drive, Fawnskin, CA 92333  

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Big Bear Jeep Experience

Action Zipline Tours

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Big Bear Day Tour

Enjoy a day in the snow.

Winter is the most magical time in Big Bear mountain! Discover the mountains of Los Angeles, there’s plenty of fun for everyone!

Big Bear Lake is a unique mountain resort community located 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles and surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest. About 21,000 residents make their home here full-time.

Altitude ranges from 6,750 to 9,000 feet. There are over 300 days of sunshine each year. Summer temperatures average around 80 degrees during the day, and 45 degrees at night. Winter brings about 100 inches of snowfall, and temperatures which average in the low 40’s during the day, and mid 20’s at night.

Pine and oak forests flourish in Big Bear’s alpine environment. The area provides a natural habitat for approximately 30 wintering bald eagles and 29 species of rare plants, ten of which are indigenous to the area.

Choose which package suits you best: Package 1: Full Skiing/Snowboarding pack An all inclusive package for skiers/snowboarders, this package includes a full day on Big Bear’s trails, Snowboard OR Ski rental and lift ticket & round-trip transportation.

Package 2: Snow tubing fun pack If you don’t know how to ski or snowboard, this package might be for you! Go out for a day of tubing on Big Bear’s snowy slopes! Includes round-trip transportation and tubing rental.

Package 3: Day in the snow If you would simply like spend a day in the snowy mountains and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Enjoy a hot chocolate & drinks at the Big Bear Lodge. Walk around and explore Big Bear on your own, with our day in the snow package. Includes round-trip transportation.

Room Occupancy Guide – Overnight & Weekend Trips

Quad – 4 people in a room with 2 beds (guests will share beds) Triple – 3 people in a room with 2 beds (guests will share beds) Double – 2 people in a room with 2 beds (each person will have their own bed) Single – 1 person will have their own room with 2 beds

***Mixed gender rooms will NOT be allowed unless they are approved in writing by your school or academic institution. NO mixed gender rooms will ever be allowed with any guests under the age of 18 unless other guests are family members and are also approved by your school. **

Big Bear Cycling Association

Ride with Us!

Tour de Big Bear / Gran Fondo Guide

Tour de big bear 2024 – saturday, august 3rd.

More than just Southern California’s favorite ride! The Tour de Big Bear was recently named the #1 Gran Fondo in North America by Gran Fondo Guide!  We’re looking forward to hosting our friends in Big Bear this year.  The start/finish and Expo will be held at Bear Mountain Resort!

Big Bear Lake has been touted as the “Cycling Capital of Southern California” and recently ranked as the #1 Weekend Getaway City in the United States by Expedia!

Space is limited and we sell out every year so register now!

Escape the summer heat and #RIDEWITHUS!

The Tour de Big Bear is sanctioned by USA Cycling. (USA Cycling membership is NOT required to participate in the Tour de Big Bear.)

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No matter what your personality Big Bear Jeep Experience has the trip for you! Sightseeing tours for the timid, introduction to offroading for people ready to be exposed to the jeep experience, and advanced rock crawling trails that would be fun for the seasoned off-roader.

HOLCOMB VALLEY GOLD FEVER TRAIL

Very beginner friendly - excellent sightseeing trip

THE SQUEEZE

Beginner Trail - Introduction to 4WD

JOHN BULL JR TRAIL

Intermediate Trail - Our most popular trip

GOLD MOUNTAIN TRAIL

Advanced Trail - Rock crawling trip

You drive our jeeps and follow our guides on Big Bear's world-famous off-road terrain and trails!

BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE NOW

Our Jeep fleet is small, book now to ensure availability for your experience.

But don't show up without your reservation. Call now to book your Big Bear Off-Road Experience. Click here for directions!

- Ashley W.

- Laurinda Z.

CHECK OUT OUR LODGING PARTNERS!

Looking to enjoy your stay a bit longer in Big Bear? That’s terrific, Big Bear Cabin Rentals has many cabins to choose from that accommodate longer stays. From high-end luxury cabins to pet friendly and near the water, they have exactly what you need. Oh, and they also offer cleans during your stay with us and you can enjoy our concierge team if needed. So relax and come enjoy everything Big Bear has to offer.

Pick from over 300 homes and luxury Big Bear cabins ranging from rustic and simple to luxuriously grand. With such a great selection of locations, amenities, decor and pricing, Big Bear Vacations has the perfect accommodations for you, your family, friends and groups. They also offer weekly, monthly, and long term rentals in Big Bear Lake for anyone looking to get away from the city!

Kick back and relax at the 400-acre mountain campground retreat just 4 miles from Big Bear Lake. Encircled by thousands of acres of San Bernardino National Forest the oasis is a private ranch where rolling hills and stands of pine surround a meadow of roaming horses. Having campsites one to five acres in size and generously distanced from neighboring campers, Holcomb Valley Ranch is a campground like no other.

THANKS TO THE COMPANIES THAT KEEP US ON THE TRAILS!

Animals Around The Globe (US)

Watch: Wild Bear Charges Photographers in Alaska

Posted: June 8, 2024 | Last updated: June 8, 2024

In a heart-stopping encounter in Alaska’s Chinitna Bay on Lake Clark’s Cook inlet, a group of tourists and photographers found themselves in the direct path of a charging brown bear.

Introduction

On a guided tour with Scenic Bear Viewing, the group aimed to observe bears in their natural environment. However, what was supposed to be a serene experience quickly turned into a nail-biting moment.

The Unexpected Charge

While the group was observing a calm bear digging holes on the sandy shores of the National Park, a brown bear in the distance suddenly started charging toward them at a rapid pace. The rapid approach of the bear caught everyone off guard, heightening the situation’s tension.

Bravery in the Face of Danger

Martin Boland, the guide with over a decade of experience with these majestic creatures, showcased immense courage. Instead of retreating, Martin ran directly towards the charging bear, screaming and waving his camera in a brave attempt to deter the animal. His quick thinking and fearless approach worked. The bear, taken aback by Martin’s audacity, decided to retreat to the water.

Safety Advice from the Experts

Following this harrowing experience, the tour company took to Instagram to share crucial advice for anyone in a similar situation. They emphasized the importance of not running from a charging bear, as this could trigger their natural chase instinct. Instead, they advised standing one’s ground, especially during a bluff charge meant to intimidate rather than attack. The company also highlighted the importance of maintaining a safe distance from wild bears and always ensuring the presence of an experienced guide during such excursions.

What Are Grizzly Bears?

Grizzly bears are a subspecies of brown bears found in North America. They are known for their distinctive hump on their shoulders, which is a muscle mass used for digging.

Where Do Grizzly Bears Live?

Grizzly bears primarily inhabit the western part of North America, including Alaska, western Canada, and parts of the northwestern United States such as Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho.

What Do Grizzly Bears Eat?

Grizzly bears are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals . Their diet includes berries, roots, insects, fish, small mammals, and occasionally larger animals like deer or moose.

How Big Do Grizzly Bears Get?

Adult male grizzly bears typically weigh between 400 to 800 pounds, while females are smaller, weighing between 300 to 400 pounds. They can stand up to 8 feet tall on their hind legs.

How Long Do Grizzly Bears Live?

Grizzly bears can live up to 25 years in the wild, although their lifespan can be shorter due to factors like disease, accidents, and human interactions.

What Is the Role of Grizzly Bears in the Ecosystem?

Grizzly bears play a vital role in their ecosystem by controlling prey populations, dispersing seeds through their scat, and contributing to nutrient cycling through their foraging activities.

This thrilling encounter is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of respecting wild animals in their habitats. While the group was fortunate to have an experienced guide like Martin. Tourists must be aware of the potential dangers and always prioritize safety when venturing into the wilderness.

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Action Zipline Tours

• 40957 Big Bear Blvd
• Big Bear Lake, California 92315
• Information

Action Tours is offering the most unique ways to see Big Bear Lake. - Action Tours is the place to go for high altitude fun.

Discover the beauty of our National Forest while you fly through the air along a high speed zipline course . Our zipline experience features 9 ziplines, a suspension bridge, and an off-road ride in our off-road vehicles.

SNOWSHOEING

Snowshoe tours are offered in the winter months and are weather/snow dependent. Book your tour to get a guided excursion exploring the beautiful San Bernardino National Forest in the winter months. You'll see some of the best scenery in the valley and get a healthy workout in as well! Call 909-866-0390 or visit ActionToursCalifornia.com to reserve.

Zipline Penny Toss 40957 Big Bear Blvd Big Bear Lake, California 92315 Info Open in Google Maps

Zipline Penny Toss

Patriotic Pitch 40957 Big Bear Blvd Big Bear Lake, California 92315 Info Open in Google Maps

Patriotic Pitch

Outdoor Winter Activities for Non-Skiers & Non-Snowboarders

Posted: 02/13/24

What is there to do for non-skiers and snowboarders during the winter season in Big Bear?

Unique Ways to View Colors!

Posted: 09/28/23

Not to brag, but Big Bear Lake boasts some pretty spectacular colors in the fall season! Something we like to call the Falltacular season!

Planning Your Romantic Getaway

Posted: 09/14/23

A getaway to Big Bear Lake is especially memorable in the fall with beautiful foliage and that crisp mountain air. Welcome to fall in BIg Bear!

Racing Into Fall: High Speed Action Adventures!

Posted: 08/31/23

There’s always a new adventure to be had in Big Bear Lake, and for all those thrill seekers out there, the possibilities for epic fun abounds this fall!