Swimming in Big Bear Lake during the summer is refreshing and fun for everyone.
For parents who want a safe swimming area to bring the family, Meadow Park is the
best place to go. The swim beach is sandy with a lifeguard, a floating dock and
water toys, snack bar and public restrooms.
The more adventurous swimmers can find all kinds of swimming and wading spots around
the lake, just remember there are no lifeguards and Lake Management (MWD) requires
that you swim within 50 feet of the shore. Another favorite area for taking a dip
is the area around China Island aka Garstin Island; you can swim around near the
rocks and the daring can climb up the rock formation behind China Island and take
a thrilling jump into the water below.
Another swimming spot is just east of the Big Bear Dam on the north shore of the lake - the size of the beach depends on the water level, which means it will be bigger when the lake level is lower.
The East Boat Ramp beach is popular with families with small children - there are bathroom facilities and also a fishing dock. The East Boat Ramp is just west of the Stanfield Cut-Off which is just east of the Vons & Stater Bros shopping centers.
The image below shows the rocks just east of the Big Bear Dam on the south side of the lake - they are adjacent to the mooring buoys.
Boulder Bay Park is great for kayaking but you can also wade in the water.
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO SWIM WITHIN YOUR ABILITY. Inexperienced swimmers and children should always wear a life jacket. ALWAYS watch out for boats when you are in the water..