Closest Airports To Big Bear Lake

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 34 views

Hey everyone! So, you're planning a trip to the awesome Big Bear Lake, huh? That's fantastic! It's such a cool spot for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or just chilling by the water. But before you start packing those snow boots or swim trunks, a super important question pops up: what airport is near Big Bear? Getting this right can save you a ton of hassle and make your journey way smoother. Let's dive into the best options for flying into the Big Bear area, shall we?

Understanding Your Options: Major Airports vs. Smaller Airfields

When we talk about airports near Big Bear, it's crucial to understand there isn't a major international airport right in Big Bear itself. The closest and most convenient options involve a bit of a drive. We're going to break down the main airports that most travelers use, looking at their proximity, the airlines that fly there, and what the drive to Big Bear is actually like. Think of it as your ultimate guide to landing near paradise. We'll compare the pros and cons of each, so you can make the best choice for your travel style and budget. Whether you're looking for the absolute closest or the one with the most flight options, we've got you covered, guys.

San Bernardino International Airport (SBD)

Let's kick things off with San Bernardino International Airport (SBD). This is often your best bet for a relatively short drive to Big Bear. It's located about 50-60 miles away, and depending on traffic and road conditions (especially if there's snow!), you're looking at a drive of around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes. SBD is a smaller airport, but it's growing and has been investing in upgrades. It primarily serves the Inland Empire region of Southern California. The main airlines you'll find here are usually Breeze Airways and some limited service from other carriers. Because it's smaller, you might find that parking is easier and the overall airport experience is less chaotic than at the mega-airports. This can be a huge plus if you're trying to get to your mountain getaway quickly. The drive from SBD is mostly highway driving until you get closer to the mountains, which makes it fairly straightforward. You'll generally take CA-210 East towards Redlands, then transition to CA-30 East, which eventually becomes I-215 North. From there, you'll want to head towards CA-38 East, which is the gateway to Big Bear. It’s a scenic route, especially as you climb into the San Bernardino National Forest. However, remember that CA-38 can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays, and it can be subject to closures due to snow. Always check road conditions before you leave the airport!

Why SBD Might Be Your Top Choice

So, why should SBD be high on your list? Convenience and a shorter drive time are the big wins here. If you're flying from a city served by Breeze Airways or another carrier that offers flights into SBD, this airport can significantly cut down your travel time compared to flying into LAX or Ontario. It's like getting a head start on your vacation! Plus, the more manageable size of SBD means less time spent navigating terminals, waiting in long security lines, and searching for your car in a massive parking structure. This translates to a more relaxed start to your trip. Think about it: less stress, more mountain fun. The airport itself has been undergoing modernization, so while it's not huge, it offers the essential amenities you need. You can grab a bite to eat, use the restrooms, and get your rental car without feeling overwhelmed. For those who prioritize minimizing travel time once they land, SBD is definitely a strong contender. It offers a good balance between accessibility and a less stressful airport experience, making it a smart choice for many heading to Big Bear.

Ontario International Airport (ONT)

Next up, we have Ontario International Airport (ONT). This is another popular choice, and it's generally a bit larger than SBD, offering more flight options. ONT is located about 65-75 miles from Big Bear, and the drive typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, again, depending heavily on traffic. Ontario is a major hub for airlines like Southwest, American Airlines, United, and Delta, so you'll likely have more choices for flights, potentially finding better deals or more convenient flight times. The drive from ONT to Big Bear usually involves taking I-10 East towards San Bernardino. Then you'll merge onto I-215 North and follow the same route as from SBD, eventually taking CA-38 East into the mountains. The initial part of the drive is on major freeways, which can be smooth sailing during off-peak hours. However, the I-10 and I-215 corridors can get congested, especially during weekday commutes or on Friday afternoons when everyone is heading out of town. Once you get past San Bernardino and onto CA-38, the driving experience is similar to coming from SBD. It’s a beautiful drive as you ascend, but be prepared for winding roads.

Why ONT is a Great Option for More Choices

Ontario International Airport (ONT) shines when it comes to flight variety and airline options. If you're flying from further afield or have specific airline preferences, ONT is likely to have you covered. The increased competition among airlines often means you can find competitive fares. For travelers who need flexibility in their flight schedules or want to maximize their chances of finding a direct flight, ONT is a solid bet. While the drive might be slightly longer than from SBD, the potential for more flight choices and competitive pricing can often outweigh that extra bit of time. Plus, as a larger airport, ONT has more amenities – more restaurants, more shops, and often more rental car companies available on-site. If you appreciate a bustling airport environment with plenty of options for grabbing a coffee or a last-minute souvenir, you'll feel right at home at Ontario. It’s the go-to for many Southern Californians looking for a convenient airport experience without the overwhelming scale of LAX. Remember to factor in potential traffic delays when planning your arrival time in Big Bear, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons or holidays.

Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)

Now, let's talk about Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). This one is a bit further out, generally around 80-90 miles from Big Bear, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes. PSP is known for its beautiful, open-air terminals and its focus on leisure travel. It's a popular choice for people visiting the desert resorts, but it can also serve as an option for Big Bear if flight prices or schedules are particularly favorable. Airlines like Alaska, American, Delta, United, and Spirit fly into PSP. The drive to Big Bear from Palm Springs is quite scenic. You'll typically take CA-111 North out of Palm Springs, then head towards CA-62 West (Twentynine Palms Highway). You'll continue on CA-62 until you reach Yucca Valley, where you'll take CA-247 North towards Lucerne Valley. From Lucerne Valley, you'll connect to CA-18 West, which takes you up the mountain and into the Big Bear area. This route involves a significant climb and can be winding. It's a beautiful drive, offering different desert and mountain vistas compared to the routes from SBD or ONT. However, it's also generally the longest drive time, and parts of CA-247 and CA-18 can be remote. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition, and be aware of fuel stops.

Why PSP Could Work for Your Trip

While not the closest, Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) might be worth considering if you find exceptionally good flight deals or have a specific reason to fly into Palm Springs. Perhaps you want to combine a desert getaway with your mountain trip, or maybe your origin city has better flight connections to PSP. The airport itself offers a pleasant, often less crowded, travel experience compared to larger hubs. Its compact size and unique architecture make it a nice place to arrive or depart from. If a slightly longer drive isn't a major concern for you, and the savings on airfare are significant, PSP could be a viable option. It’s also worth noting that PSP is well-equipped to handle visitors, with plenty of rental car options and amenities. The drive, while longer, can be quite beautiful, taking you through different Southern California landscapes before you ascend into the mountains. Just be sure to check weather and road conditions, especially for the mountain passes on CA-18, as they can be affected by winter weather.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Okay, let's address the elephant in the room: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). This is the biggest and busiest airport in the region, located about 100-120 miles from Big Bear. The drive can be anywhere from 2 hours to 3+ hours, and this is highly dependent on LA traffic, which is notoriously unpredictable and often intense. LAX offers the most flight options by far, serving virtually every major airline and countless international destinations. If you need to fly from somewhere far away, or if you're looking for the absolute widest range of flight times and prices, LAX is where you'll find it. However, the significant downside is the long and often frustrating drive. You'll typically take I-10 East or I-210 East, depending on your starting point within the LA basin, heading towards San Bernardino. From there, you'll follow the routes towards CA-38 or CA-18 East into the mountains. The biggest challenge here isn't the mountain roads themselves, but navigating the LA freeway system to even get out of the general vicinity of the airport. Rush hour traffic can add hours to your journey. If you choose LAX, plan your drive meticulously, avoid peak travel times if at all possible, and be prepared for a potentially lengthy and stressful experience.

When LAX Makes Sense (or Doesn't)

Flying into LAX only really makes sense if you absolutely cannot find a suitable flight into SBD, ONT, or PSP, or if you're combining your Big Bear trip with significant time exploring Los Angeles itself. The sheer number of flights and airlines means you'll almost certainly find a flight that works for your schedule and budget. However, the time and stress involved in the drive from LAX to Big Bear often negate the benefits of the flight itself. Many people find that the extra 1-2 hours (or more!) of driving time, coupled with the potential for gridlock, makes it a less desirable option. If you do opt for LAX, consider renting a car that's comfortable for a long drive and maybe breaking up the journey if you have the time. For most people focused solely on getting to Big Bear, the closer airports like SBD and ONT are usually far superior choices. Think of LAX as the last resort for Big Bear-bound travelers unless there's a compelling reason to endure the drive.

Smaller Airports and General Aviation

Beyond the main commercial airports, there are also smaller airfields. For instance, Big Bear City Airport (BBCA) is actually located in Big Bear! However, this is a general aviation airport, meaning it's primarily used by private planes, charter flights, and flight training. It does not typically accommodate large commercial airliners. So, unless you're flying your own plane or chartering a private jet, BBCA won't be your entry point. There are other small airports in the general region, but for commercial flights, the options we've discussed (SBD, ONT, PSP, and occasionally LAX) are your main gateways. Relying on these smaller, private airfields is a niche option for those with specific aviation needs or resources.

Planning Your Drive to Big Bear

No matter which airport you choose, the drive up to Big Bear is part of the experience! The most common routes involve ascending mountain roads, which are scenic but require attention. CA-18 and CA-38 are the main highways that lead into the Big Bear Valley.

CA-38 (The Valley of the Pines Highway): Often accessed from Redlands/San Bernardino. It's a beautiful drive that takes you through the San Bernardino National Forest, offering stunning views.
CA-18 (The Rim of the World Scenic Byway): Accessed from Lucerne Valley or Crestline/Running Springs. This route offers dramatic vistas and is known for its twists and turns.

Key things to remember for the drive:

Check Road Conditions: Always check Caltrans (dot.ca.gov) or local Big Bear road conditions before you leave the airport, especially during fall, winter, and spring. Snow, ice, or even heavy rain can impact these mountain roads, leading to delays or closures. Chains may be required during winter months.
Fuel Up: Make sure you have a full tank of gas before heading up the mountain. Services can be sparse on the higher mountain roads.
Vehicle Preparedness: Ensure your car is in good condition, especially brakes and tires. If driving in winter, make sure you have appropriate tires or chains.
Allow Extra Time: Don't underestimate mountain driving times. They are almost always longer than GPS estimates, especially with scenic stops or unexpected traffic.
Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be spotty in the mountains, so having offline maps downloaded on your phone is a lifesaver.

The Verdict: Which Airport is Best?

So, to wrap it all up, the answer to what airport is near Big Bear really depends on your priorities.

For the shortest drive and potentially easiest airport experience: San Bernardino International Airport (SBD) is often your best bet.
For the most flight options and airline choices: Ontario International Airport (ONT) is usually the top pick.
If you find a great deal or want to combine trips: Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) can be a viable, though longer, option.
As a last resort or if LA is your destination too: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) offers the most flights but comes with the longest and most unpredictable drive.

No matter which you choose, enjoy your trip to beautiful Big Bear Lake! It's a truly special place, and getting there is just the first step of the adventure. Safe travels, everyone!