It’s not hard to get lured in by the lake lifestyle, especially when your canine companions are welcome on the water. Running seven miles long and half-a-mile wide with 22 miles of shoreline, Big Bear Lake is renowned as the best freshwater fishing destination in Southern California. It’s also a hot spot for watersports and pleasure cruising.

Paddle with your pup at Big Bear Lake

All pups aboard for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding and boating excursions! Be it SUPs, fishing boats or pontoons, watercraft rental options are plentiful from marinas anchoring the lake. Most rental outfitters are happy to have your dog aboard—just let them know when you reserve so they can set you up with the right vessel.

Find rentals at Big Bear Marina, Holloway’s, Pine Knot Landing and Pleasure Point. Note that lake use permits are required to take out any kind of vessel (kayaks and paddle boards included) and you can get those at the marinas as well. In terms of where and when to steer your crew for a paddle, Boulder Bay is home to the calmest waters and conditions are at their glassiest in the early morning hours.

For shoreline fun, the meadow area near Stanfield Cutoff is a relaxed spot where dogs can wade in the shallows while you set up a picnic. The water here stays shallow for a good stretch, making it ideal for pups who prefer to keep their paws on the bottom.

Coastal splashing near Monterey Bay

If saltwater is more your style, the Marina State Beach area near Monterey Bay offers miles of sandy shoreline where dogs can romp in the surf. The beach is known for its rolling dunes and consistent breeze—great for keeping your pup cool on sunny days. Dogs must be leashed on the main beach, but they’ll still have a blast chasing the waves and digging in the sand.

Nearby, the dog-friendly stretch along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is perfect for a post-swim stroll. The paved path hugs the coastline and offers plenty of spots to rinse off sandy paws at public beach access points.

Safety tips for dogs on the water

Dog life vests are always a good idea, and while dogs are welcome to go in Big Bear Lake, the temperatures are only safe for swimming summer through early fall. If Fido takes a dip, be sure to rinse them off after. And never let them drink lake water. At ocean beaches, watch for rip currents and keep your dog close in rough surf. Start with calm, shallow water if your pup is new to swimming, and always supervise—even strong swimmers can tire quickly in open water.