Lake Arrowhead offers a nature-inspired vacation tucked away in the San Bernardino Mountains. Located just 90 miles from Los Angeles, 70 miles from Orange County and 90 miles from Palm Springs, Lake Arrowhead offers the ideal weekend escape for SoCal natives that don’t want to travel (too) far.

From hotels to vacation rentals, there are plenty of places to lodge in Lake Arrowhead. While renting a cabin with friends and family may be fun, sometimes a quiet getaway is a must.

One of our favorite spots to stay is Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa. The resort is centrally located in the heart of Lake Arrowhead village and walking distance to quaint shops and local eateries.

From their rooms, guests are able to enjoy lavish lake and mountain views. The rustic retreat is furnished like a cabin would be, making it warm and inviting. It feels just like home. The resort also offers private balconies in select rooms. No need to change out of your jammies to take in the fresh air and gorgeous scenery from your own private patio.

Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa hosts numerous events, with weddings being a hot commodity. The Lakeside Dock makes for one incredible backdrop. Guests can watch the bride and groom say “I do” while taking in the picturesque waterfront view surrounded by pines.

The best part? You won’t have to worry about any bridezilla moments. The planning is under control thanks to the on-site wedding planner and catering and banquet services.

The resort offers both outdoor and indoor meeting areas. The boardroom provides a smaller group setting, hosting up to 16 people, while the ballroom can hold up to 400.

Privacy, along with peace and quiet, is a given on the resort’s private beach and dock.  Lake Arrowhead is one of the only private lakes in SoCal, accessible to solely local residents and resort guests. On the lake, guests can enjoy one of the many tours offered– including one on a private pontoon boat. Fish, boat, kayak and water ski all from Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa’s dock.

The two hot tubs and outdoor pool with scenic lake views are another enticing feature of the resort’s relaxation vacation vibe. The poolside bar and snacks are fair game for guests visiting from June through August.

If you can’t find peace at the pool, the spa is our next suggestion. The Spa of the Pines provides serenity and relaxation to both guests and locals. Choose from one of the many soothing massages, facials, hair and nail treatments and waxing. You’ll leave feeling fresh and invigorated.

The resort’s lobby features a massive fireplace and plenty of plush couches to cozy up in. Warm up by the fire on a chilly SoCal day … whenever that happens. Or hit up the adjacent game room. The game room features air hockey, Twister and a bunch of board games to entertain the whole family. Once the games have come to an end, celebrate the winner at the resort’s onsite restaurant.

BIN189’s contemporary American dishes satisfy both land and sea lovers. Lake views and lodge-inspired ambiance surround guests as they dine on seasonal cuisine. Pair your meal with one of their delectable signature cocktails or wines. Located within BIN189 is the Magnum Private Dining Room, which features glass walls stocked with world-class wine. The private room has its own menu and can seat up to 20 people. This is a great spot for an intimate gathering, a small business meeting, or a family affair.

Across the lobby, guests can indulge in Aromas. This coffee bar– which serves up coffee, smoothies and pastries– will give you the boost of energy you need to enjoy all the fun at Lake Arrowhead.

If you want that wind-rushing-through-your-hair moment paired with adrenaline coursing through your veins, look no further than the resort’s new “Lake Level Lux Escape.” This package offers guests two custom Harley-Davidsons, leather jackets, helmets, spa treatments, a two-night stay in the Presidential Suite and a private lake tour with a four-course dinner. This extravagant stay is perfect for thrill-seekers who want to experience the beauty of Lake Arrowhead on the back of a bike.

 From snow to sun, there is something for everyone no matter which season your trip is planned for. Whether you’re packing activewear, leisure-wear or you’ve settled on the best of both worlds, athleisure– get ready to enjoy the amazing trails, eateries, shopping, entertainment and more in Lake Arrowhead.

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Seeking adventure? Skypark at Santa’s Village opens its doors to visitors year-round. This adventure park offers zip lining, train rides, hiking and biking trails, fishing, archery, climbing and much more. The park also offers a number of tours that highlight conservation efforts and the park’s eco-system. During the winter, the park transforms into a snow-themed winter wonderland filled with merry characters. If you’re lucky you might even see real snow, too!

Hear the chapel bells ringing? On-site guests can pronounce their love at the Chapel of the Little Shepard. From weddings to birthdays, the park makes the perfect venue.  Santa’s Village is home to sweet eateries such as The Gingerbread House, St. Nick’s Patio and Grille, The Pedal Pub, The Lunch Box, Billy’s BBQ House and Kringle’s Coffee & Gifts. Enjoy all your favorite holiday treats year-round at Santa’s Village. After all the adventures, you deserve it!

Caitlin Pieh
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