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"If you don't have a fabulous time here you're with the wrong person\people.”
A review of Golden Bear Cottages Resort.
Nov 26, 2010.
The establishment and the friendly owners make every effort to provide a great stay. These cabins include a fully stocked kitchen with frig, stove/oven, microwave, toaster and all utensils. The cabins are clean and have great individual mountain decor. For your comfort a thermostat controlled heater and fireplace are included along with TV, VHS and DVD player with rentals, a gift shop and firewood available at the office. The remodeled bathroom in our cabins included oversized tub with jacuzzi jets. We found all of this in the studio unit we rented for one night. Then we came back again a month later and rented another cabin... Everything was just as good the second and third time! This is a great place to spend your Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays"
The Artel familyOntario 11-26-2010
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"Big Bear Christian retreat with lake cabins for rent. Thoroughly enjoyed our return visit to the Golden Bear. Same clean cottage. Same great family owners and staff. Same cabin which is only a block from the lake. It's nice to have a comfortable relaxing place to go for a short vacation. After our second trip, we were sold. We even gave the group cabin rental information to out church youth group leader. She is now planning a youth retreat at Golden Bear. The Golden Bear resort property is a perfect place for our family to have a getaway from the city life in any season!"
Lee Estes Jr.Redondo Beach 09-06-2009
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"Great Times at the Golden Bear Cottages”
Review of Golden Bear Cottages Resort by the Vasquez family.
I had wanted to take my mom and dad to Golden Bear Cottages, located in beautiful Big Bear Lake, for a long time. I had heard very positive things about this resort for a long time. Since so many of my family members wanted to go along for vacation as well, we decided to rent the biggest cottage at the resort. That way we could have family coming and going all week and would have room for everybody. We live in nearby Southern California cities so this getaway is perfect for us. It is just an hour from home, yet it is exactly like being in an entirely different world! The weather was perfect, in the low to mid seventies, while the weather at home was in the high nineties. The evenings were clear and crisp – the first time we had worn light jackets in months! Our cabin was perfect for our family. We had plenty of room in the huge kitchen for everybody who wanted to cook in our family “chicken cook off” to join in! There was a huge dining room that seats 22 plus a great game room with poker tables, a pool table, and a foosball table. Our three level cottage was comfortable for all who either came to visit or for everyone who stayed for the week. Many of our family members spent much of the week at the beautiful Golden Bear pool and outdoor spa. The setting in the centuries old pine trees is breathtaking! The kids played ping-pong, basketball, volleyball, and other sports at the resort. There was even a great playground for the small kids. Golden Bear has a gift shop, movie rentals, a huge selection of board games, card games, and karaoke plus a library of new hardback books for those who may forget to bring something to read. We had never seen so many great amenities at a vacation destination. Our entire experience at Golden Bear Cottages was just wonderful! We will definitely make this an annual event for our family, one that we will all look forward to. The staff bent over backwards to make sure all of our needs were met. The housekeeping staff and the front office staff made us feel at home, providing great service with smiles and even hugs! I highly recommend Golden Bear Cottages to anyone who wants a wonderful get-a-way for their family and friends. We’ll be back!
Signed, 'luvtotravelDV'"
Derrick VasquezColton 09-11-2010
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"Very flexible, courteous, friendly ownership! My friends and I are serving in the U.S. Navy stationed in San Diego and we travel to Big bear on weekends in the Winter whenever our schedule allows. Instead of making the 3 hour drive back to San Diego one day, we decided to rent a cabin. Golden Bear just happened to be the first place we stopped, and we have been in love with it since. Once, we were snowed in on the mountain and we couldn't leave, and they gave us a generous discount on our cottage to ease our burden. Another time we planned to rent cottages for a group of 30 and planning it a month prior wasn't any proplem. Soon after, our military schedule changed and we were unable to meet our reservation date. That wasn't any problem for the Golden Bear group. They understood our predicament, helped us pick a later date, and credited our account for any unused portion. We had made attempts to stay at Golden Bear plenty of other times throughout the season, but soon learned that reservations book up fast. I definately know why, some other places on the mountain were far less accommodating and more expensive too! Thank you, Golden Bear from all of us!"
M. Mitchell and friends U.S. NavyImperial Beach 03-15-2008
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"Thank you, Golden Bear Cottages for your special attention during our recent 80 th birthday parties and family group celebration. We were referred by AAA Travel and always appreciate their recommendations. My wife Eileen was so appreciative for the gift basket, and the dinner reservations for our big family group were superb. We can't wait to come back to see you soon. We should be back to rent some big cabins for the winter holidays. And next time we will plan to have the whole group for a family reunion.' Anthony and Eileen from East Highlands Ranch, CA"
Anthony and Eileen DEast Highlands Ranch, CA 04-30-2010
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"Our favorite getaway from the desert heat is to our cool mountain retreat at Golden Bear Cottages. Everyone needs to know that this lodge is the best. We stayed for a week this time with our whole family. The cabins are cozy and romantic to spacious depending upon your individual needs. But each is well appointed with all the comforts you could ask for... And the owners and staff are always accommodating and so friendly. We told our boss about Golden Bear Cottages Resort one day at lunch after we got back home. Now, he is bringing his group to OUR favorite getaway. They really love it because they can rent one of your pet friendly cabins and bring their dogs. This was at least our 30th trip to Big Bear Lake's top lodging resort over the last 5 years. Stay well Lisa, Lenny, and Don. We'll see you very soon and God bless you all."
Thomas FergusLas Vegas, NV 09-15-2013
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"Our summer vacation memories at Golden Bear are all my son and his friend talk about. Our yearly trip to your resort seems to get better with each passing year, and now our son goes up for snowboarding just with his friends too. We have gone every year for over 20 years. We especially enjoyed the Summer family movie nights on the big screen TV at the pool. Thank you for adding that to all of the activities at the Golden Bear. Sincerely, your friends Karen and Dave."
Karen and David StumpAlpine, CA 07-25-2012
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"This was our first visit to Big Bear Lake. Golden Bear Cottages staff made us feel like we were home. I had no clue where anything was, or how it would be like when I was booking this trip for a group af six and 2 infants. I asked a million questions when I booked our reservation and never once did they give me a hard time. They are so courteous and friendly. When we arrived I found our cabin was exactly what we were told and more! It was fabulous, the whole kirchen was equipped and ready for us to cook. All the rooms were super clean and decorated as if it was your own home. I was so amazed that it didn't look like a hotel or something. The cabin was our private home for the week. The entire property was very well kept. I extremely recommend Golden Bear Cottages resort to anyone. It's great for a quick getaway, or a week's vacation. We had a fabulous time and will return soon."
Jewel S.Long Beach 06-24-2005
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"Our review of Great cabins. Very clean. Friendly staff. We have returned many times. The summer movies by the pool are a nice change, it's a special event for families not to miss. These are the best Big Bear family vacation rentals. A really top notch historic facility."
jorie starrhemet 10-07-2007
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"Wedding in Big Bear Lake. My 'Happily Ever After' began at Golden Bear Cottages Resort last week. What a wonderful wedding we experienced. The big retreat cottage was just perfect for our reception. Your suggestions for wedding planning and catering were great. Thank you also for your help with the minister and salon services. It was so great to have salon right on the resort property. God bless all of you for your help."
Tabetha ChenleeRiverside 05-04-2005
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"Every year we return to Golden Bear Cottages to celebrate our wedding anniversary. We enjoy the rustic, at home, feel of the clean cabins and we always relax and enjoy ourselves. It's a great getaway spot."
Jayne and Rich ClodfelterFullerton 10-03-2005
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"Review...The perfect place to find relaxation. We visited the Golden Bear Cottages for the Labor Day holiday weekend. We had the most relaxing, peaceful time we have ever spent at a resort. What a change from Las Vegas or Los Angeles. Our whole family group(kids too) were treated to the kind of old fashioned hospitality I didn't know existed anymore. Even the housekeeping staff is friendly! Everyone in the office took time to tell us about the things to do around the lake, and there is more than you can imagine! They have even created a custom guest services book for each cabin. It tells about the best restaurants, marinas, fishing, sking and lot's of stuff for the kids to do. The Golden Bear Cottages resort also has so much to do right on the property. Our family especially enjoyed the movie nights on the big screen TV at the pool. We will be regulars at this great mountain place, everytime we need to relax."
A. McGuirePahrump 10-26-2007
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"Loved the Cabins! We live just down the hill in Apple Valley and we were delighted to find such a beautiful place to stay in Big Bear that is so close to home. This time we stayed in cabin #6 'Pooh's Corner'. Since it is one of the pet friendly cabins, we brought our 10 year old poodle, since she has arthritis. We were pleasantly surprised to find a pet yard for her at the back of our cabin. It was immaculate and very cozy. The cabin was decorated just perfectly with mountain-like decoration. When we checked in, the staff was so friendly and professional. We felt they treated us like family, and we ended up staying 2 extra days. The rates were reasonable we were able to afford to, even on a military family budget. We told our military friends and family about Golden Bear. They will stay there too, when going to Big Bear. Thanks again."
Patty & Neal Denmark, military familyApple Valley 10-19-2007
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"Once again we had a fantastic time and very much enjoyed our stay at Golden Bear. Our housekeeper was tops! thank you, Vicki"
Victoria TorresAnaheim 11-15-2005
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"review of Golden Bear Cottages. Nice affordable accommodations in Big Bear Lake. My husband is an awesome husband and father...yet an overworked Homicide Detective. We NEEDED some family time together. I scoured the net for a nice place for us. We were warmly welcomed by owners, Mr. & Mrs. DiCarlo. I didn't expect their kind of friendliness, Christian values, and hospitality. Their graciousness and fun (and CLEAN!) resort grounds set the stage to make precious family memories with our two kids and their grandma. This place is geared for families who just want to spend time together! Whether you want to stay in by the cozy fire & have a home-cooked meal, play on the playground, or shoot baskets, this is the best place for a family to stay. It was a haven for our family and we'll surely be back. Mr. and Mrs. DiCarlo, Mr. and Mrs. Duran and the whole group: Thanks and God bless you."
Bob and Amy AlbertsonOxnard 12-31-2007
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"Our family vacation in the mountains. Perfect getaway from the summer heat. The amenities at this Christian family resort were very complete. All of the families from our church group had a great time. The family movies at the pool in the evenings were a nice addition from the last time we were there two years ago. But, the service and friendly attitude has never changed. We believe that the best Big Bear Lake cabins for rent are right here! We look forward to returning this winter for another getaway at the Golden Bear Cottages Resort."
Douglas HughesLas Vegas 06-20-2021
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"Emily Fleniken on Google.
5 star rating.
I loved staying here! The Golden Bear Cottages resort is right off the main road and so easy to find! The cabin was big and very clean and accommodated our entire group easily. We had 4 fireplaces, a full kitchen and a bar, The staff was super friendly from when we arrived to when we left. We had an amazing time staying here and would come back again with no hesitation!"
Emily FlenikenRedlands, CA 10-29-2019
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"We had a wonderful weekend in Koala Bear! My mom, my sisters and myself went up for another long weekend away and had a great time! Wonderful people and not a hotel, just perfect cozy cabins! It was not our first stay there and will definitely not be our last! Thanks for making us feel so welcome each and every time!"
Leanne BarnesRedlands 01-26-2007
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"Imagine a beautiful rustic cottage in the woods...that is what we got, and it was so great. We stayed in Pooh's Corner and it was so adorable. I woke up early the first morning and went out to the kitchen and I felt like I was in grandma's house--so warm and cozy. My husband spied raccoons another night and squirrels were playing out front in the day. It is not all new and modern because it was built over 85 years ago, but that is not what you want in a mountain cabin. The beds were comfortable, the place was warm and so cozy, and we had every thing we needed. The staff were very friendly and helpful and more than accommodating. Very convenient location--although somewhat near the main road, noise wasn't a factor as the bedroom is at the back,(I am especially fussy about noise). The cabins are private, so I did not hear any noise from any other cottages either. We can't wait to travel back again from Australia and we will definitely stay at Golden Bear Cottages again. My ratings for this beautiful family run Christian resort are 5 stars for rooms, service, value and cleanliness. It was so... perfect. Signed, Elizabeth See"
Elizabeth SeeSunshine Coast, Australia 04-21-2006
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"I first was a guest at Golden Bear Cottages in July, 2004. I loved the place so with it's very comfortable cabins, beautiful setting amidst the woods, heated pool and hot tub. I always knew I would return there with my family and this year in July 2006 we did! The place was just as warm and friendly as I remembered it, starting with the no hassle check-in with the staff, and continued with the genuine hospitality during our stay.
We had a different cottage this time and it was perfect for a family of four. The cottage was clean, well equipped for a comfortable stay. No one else complained about the mattresses, but I personally thought the one on my bed needed to be changed as it was just a little bit flat. Though we didn't use the outdoor grill, I appreciated the fact that one was there, along with the beautiful log patio furniture.
My kids enjoyed checking out the board games and movies and everything was well-maintained and in good condition for playing.
There's nothing more relaxing than a dip in the heated pool, followed by the hot tub. Golden Bear makes the experience extra fun by providing music and then at night, they play recent movies on the big screen TV above the pool.
We didn't want to leave when it was time to go. Even my husband who is a bit hard to impress, really, truly enjoyed himself there and wants to return to Golden Bear again next year for our family vacation. We are the Roman Family from Stafford, Virginia.
Sincerely, Shirley Roman"
Shirley Roman and familyStafford, VA 07-24-2007
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"We love the Golden Bear Cottages! We were looking for the ideal cozy cabin surrounded by tall pine trees and we found it at the Golden Bear Cottages! We enjoy the family atmosphere, caring service, the wonderful pool and spa and children's playground. There's plenty to do around Big Bear too. Golden Bear is a great place to relax and enjoy life. We will keep going back. I know my kids will cherish their memories here and so will I. Review: Golden Bear Cottages has the top rating in our book."
Sharon and The Davis FamilyGlendora 08-03-2008
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"Our family enjoyed a wonderful family reunion this summer at Golden Bear Cottages. Their staff was extremely helpful throughout the year-long group planning process of the reunion. Each individual family was made to feel special by everyone from the owners, to the front office staff, to the maids and maintenance people. We were treated like royalty as a group with every request being taken care of promptly and professionally. The cabins were beautifully decorated, clean and so charming! Everyone had such a great time that we are already planning another family reunion for next year at Golden Bear. Our family came from all over the US and this is the only place that we have ever liked so much that we plan to make it an annual Golden Bear Cottages reunion!
This TripAdvisor Member:
Liked: friendly people and Christian family values"
Sue HenryEast Highland Ranch, CA 08-28-2006
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"My husband Tom, 3 yr old Olivia and I went to Big Bear last weekend. We had never stayed there before, so I researched cottages online. I kept coming back to the Golden Bear Cottages because they looked nice and the price was right. However, I was a little wary since a few reviews on TripAdvisor were pretty bad. I decided to call them and get a feel for the place. One of the owners, Don DiCarlo answered the phone and convinced me to give them a try. I AM SO HAPPY I DID! The cottage was very clean, comfy and relaxing (no bedbugs…I promise). It also had all of the amenities that make a get away easy (very clean bedding, towels, a fully stocked kitchen with plates, utensils, cookware, etc). The owners are also very helpful with giving tips on where to eat and what to do in Big Bear. That is always helpful! In addition, they also have other amenities including an extensive video library in the office, and allow you to check out the movie(s) of your choice , a pool, hot tub, basketball court and playground. I recommend this place highly for both families and couples looking for a nice place to stay up in the mountains. On our last day there, upon my request, Don’s wife Karen showed me some of the other units for future rentals. All of the units are very nice, clean and inviting. The Golden Bear Cottages are family friendly, but also cater to couples looking for a romantic get away. In fact, my husband and I plan on going there for our next romantic get away and may also book a cabin for Thanksgiving. Our daughter also loved it and talks about it all of the time...while we were there she couldn’t get enough of the playground or of the owners…who couldn’t have been nicer to her or to us.
This TripAdvisor Member will be a returning guest! ...
Liked most: It was exactly what I was looking for in a cabin in the woods.
Please Save this review... We liked Golden Bear so much, we booked another stay at the same cottage!"
Susana SantiagoL A 05-04-2007
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"Just spent four nights! Outstanding! Great cabin, the grounds were beautiful, clean air, starlight nights, what more could you ask for!
Bottom line: we will return. We believe these are the best family cabins, and best lodge for families in Big Bear!"
Laurence HamlinOrange 09-17-2007
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"Golden Bear Cottages resort is the only mountain retreat we have ever liked well enough to return to, and we do return a couple of times every year. The owners always treat us special. Their mountain resort grounds are always being improved, and the historic cabins are tastefully furnished. Houskeeping staff is so friendly and they keep the cabins very clean and tidy. You will not be disappointed with the superb service and family atmosphere. We really like the clean large family-sized historic cottages. It's really great that you can find Golden Bear Cottages on the internet on the only spanish language site we could find for hotels in Big Bear at www.BigBearHoteles.com
Big Bear cabin rentals are usually available at great military discounts as Golden Bear returning guests! We saved money on lodging for our next vacation at Big Bear Lake. We have stayed in wide variety of rentals from studio cottages to six bedroom retreat cabins... all are beautiful."
Karen a marine wife29 Palms 10-08-2007
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"My fine experience in mountain lodging took place while on retreat at the end of November:
Would I recommend this AAA approved accommodation to my best friend? Absolutely!
My ratings for the Golden Bear Cottages resort are a full 5 stars for all of the following:
Value,
Rooms,
Location,
Cleanliness,
Check in / front desk,
Service,
Business service,
I was very impressed with the pet friendly cottages with the enclosed pet yards where pets are welcome.
I have recommended this cabin retreat for: A winter holiday in the mountains, An amazing honeymoon, A romantic getaway, Family vacation getaway, Older travelers, Pet owners, Families with young children, Families with teenagers, Business and church group retreats, Family reunions, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years holidays.
I selected this hotel property because ... Lake / Outdoor / Adventure, Skiing / Winter sports / Mountain setting and AAA top ratings.
My visit was for: Quality time with family.
Our family had a great getaway and it won't be the last. We had fun in the snow and we booked a Summer vacation while we were at Golden Bear. Thank you to Don, Karen, Lisa, Len and all the attentive staff."
Dr MarcRedlands, CA 12-09-2009
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"My family and I have been staying at Golden Bear Cottages for over 20 years. We love it there! We have always had a great cabin no matter which one we stay in. The staff is really friendly and always try to accommodate any special requests. The owners, Mr. DiCarlo, Lisa and Lenny are very nice and treat us like family. They would even let my kids borrow their dog 'Buffy' for the afternoon. The cabins are kept very clean and are stocked with a wide assortment of kitchen items and always plenty of linens and towels. The grounds are kept clean and they have a great play area for kids and adults. Whether there is snow or not, it's a great time and a great value for all that is included."
The DeJong FamilyOntario 12-05-2009
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"'Feelin the Love'. Feb 28, 2007.
The best place to stay with Family and Friends!!! We have stayed in so many of their cabins over the years and every year it keeps getting better & better...The owners / Staff take pride in every cabin to make sure it suits your individual needs! They are very much attentive to accomodating your needs! Our favorite cabin is number 25 Bearberry Manor ( 5 bedroom). Depending on if you want a small cabin or a big cabin either way each cabin we have stayed in are move in ready!! It's like coming home to all the amenties of home...Just bring your clothing, toiletries and food and everything else is there. Yes...Kitchens supplied with cookware, etc...Family can enjoy watching movies since the cabins are also equipped with either vhs or dvd with tv is in the cabin...Hey did you forget a movie..No worries they have not only movies to rent but games too...A game night with family ' Lot's of fun...Ahhh yes!!! The kids have a great playground to play on. It's your choice...You can stay at Golden Bear Cottages for your vacation and be treated like family, or you can stay somewhere else and be treated like a customer! I prefer the smiles and heart felt treatment we recieve every year we come!!! There is one place for us and that's Golden Bear Cottages where we are Kings and Queens! Oh yes!!! Each cabin is clean and dressed in cute decor with a mountian-like rustic look. It's a warm feeling and we are always pleased with our stay...So come feel the love 'We did'
The Elizondo Family"
Fawn ElizondoLa Palma 04-04-2007
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"CLEAN CABINS INSURED FOR GUESTS OF GOLDEN BEAR COTTAGES RESORT:
for many years, my job as Head Housekeeper at Golden Bear Cottages included making sure the cabins were absolutely as clean as possible for our guests. To accomplish this the Golden Bear Cottages owners Don and Karen DiCarlo and Lisa and Lenny Duran introduced me to the ultraviolet light inspection system from Rest Assured Corp. Golden Bear Cottages staff's use of this system checks to make sure housekeepers clean deeper than the surface cleaning you normally find in hotels. It allows the Golden Bear Cottages housekeeping supervisor to detect any residue or fluids left by the previous guest or our housekeeper. Then, they make sure any problem is corrected before you check into your clean, cozy Golden Bear Cottages cabin or cottage. To our knowledge, they are the only non hotel, hotel, resort or vacation cabin rental property in Big Bear Lake to take the time to use this revolutionary Rest Assured Light Inspection System... and I should know, because I have been a Housekeeping Supervisor at 3 other top Big Bear rental properties over the last 25 years. Feel free to ask about the exclusive use of the Rest Assured Light Inspection System when you stay at Golden Bear Cottages resort.
Sincerely, Paddy Anne Scott"
Paddy Anne ScottBig Bear Lake 12-02-2009
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"Top Rating.
I contacted Golden Bear Cottages in behalf of my husband and his strike team who were fighting the Butler 2 fire. His team, consisting of a large group of 22 firefighters with 5 engines was in need of a good nights sleep after sleeping in parking lots for three nights. The folks at Golden Bear Cottages could not have been more helpful. They set aside enough cottages to meet the firefighter's needs and in addition offered them rates that were affordable. Great service! God bless you too!!! Thanks."
Alice HarrisonDavis 09-22-2007
