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How Sweet It Is - Downtown Village Retreat at Big Bear

Photo gallery for How Sweet It Is - Downtown Village Retreat at Big Bear

The main entrance of the cabin features a fenced-in concrete patio area, rustic stone accents, and a charming gabled porch roof nestled among mature pine trees.
Gather around the floor-to-ceiling stacked stone fireplace for a relaxing evening. The rich wood ceilings and plush seating create a warm.
Featuring soaring exposed beam ceilings and plush sectional seating, this living area is bathed in natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows.
A culinary dream featuring a massive granite island, custom cabinetry, and professional-grade stainless appliances.
This private sanctuary boasts a king-sized bed set against a stunning floor-to-ceiling stone accent wall.

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Highlights

  • Walkable and wonderful
    Guests love the walkable location for its easy access on foot.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to The Village
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Ski lift privileges
  • Onsite parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View map
Big Bear Lake, CA
  • Place, Big Bear Marina
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, The Village
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Bernardino, CA (SBD-San Bernardino Intl.)
    ‪62 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Downstairs Entry Level

1 Queen Bed

Upstairs 2nd Level

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Downstairs Entry Level

Toilet · Shower only

Upstairs 2nd Level

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Dining area

About this property

How Sweet It Is - Downtown Village Retreat at Big Bear

How Sweet It Is | Walk to Big Bear Village & Lake | Cozy Mountain Cabin

Escape to How Sweet It Is, a charming mountain cabin in the heart of Big Bear Lake, just minutes from The Village, Big Bear Lake, marinas, hiking trails, Snow Summit, and Bear Mountain Resort. Whether you're planning a ski trip, family vacation, romantic getaway, or weekend retreat with friends, this cozy alpine cabin offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and mountain charm.
Located on a quiet, tree-lined street, this beautifully furnished two-story chalet comfortably accommodates families and small groups with an inviting open floor plan, rustic décor, modern amenities, and peaceful forest surroundings. Spend your mornings enjoying coffee on the private deck, afternoons exploring the lake and Village, and evenings relaxing by the fireplace after a day of adventure.
The Space

Step inside to soaring knotty pine ceilings, hardwood floors, and an inviting living room designed for relaxation. Cozy up on the leather sofa beside the gas fireplace while streaming your favorite shows on the Smart TV with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. Large windows fill the home with natural light and beautiful forest views.
The fully equipped kitchen features marble countertops, stainless steel appliances, a dishwasher, cookware, dishes, and everything needed to prepare home-cooked meals. Enjoy breakfast at the bistro dining table or dine outdoors on the spacious deck complete with patio seating, a propane BBQ, and fire pit.
Upstairs, the open loft serves as a luxurious primary suite featuring a king bed, Smart TV, private bathroom, and an oversized soaking tub with peaceful treetop views—the perfect place to unwind after hiking or skiing. The downstairs guest bedroom offers a comfortable queen bed and Smart TV, making this cabin ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
Outside, enjoy a private deck surrounded by towering pines, fresh mountain air, and a natural snow play area beside the cabin during winter months that's perfect for sledding and family fun.

Sleeping Arrangements:
Bedroom 1: Queen Bed, Streaming TV- Downstairs Entry Level
Open Loft: (No Door) King Bed, Streaming TV, Private Full Bath w/ Soaking Tub- Upstairs 2nd Level

Bathroom Arrangements:
Hallway 3/4 Bath (Shower Only)- Downstairs Entry Level Off Kitchen
Private Full Bath w/ Shower/Soaking Tub- Upstairs 2nd Level

Amenities
• Walk to Big Bear Village
• Minutes to Big Bear Lake & Marina
• Less than 10 minutes to Snow Summit & Bear Mountain
• Gas Fireplace
• High-Speed Wi-Fi
• Smart Streaming TVs
• Fully Equipped Kitchen
• Dishwasher
• Private Deck
• Propane BBQ Grill
• Outdoor Fire Pit
• Forest Views
• Free Parking
• Family Friendly
• Perfect for Ski Trips, Hiking, Fishing & Lake Vacations
Nearby Attractions
• Big Bear Village
• Big Bear Lake
• Pine Knot Marina
• Snow Summit Resort
• Bear Mountain Resort
• Alpine Zoo
• Scenic Hiking & Biking Trails
• Restaurants, Breweries & Coffee Shops
• Grocery Stores & Shopping

Every season offers something special from skiing and snowboarding in winter to boating, kayaking, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, and lake activities throughout spring, summer, and fall.

Winter Travel: Mountain conditions may require AWD/4WD and snow chains during storms. Please check road conditions before your trip.
Experience everything Big Bear has to offer while enjoying the comfort, privacy, and convenience of How Sweet It Is your perfect mountain getaway close to all the area's best attractions.

-Sleeps 4
-2 Car Driveway Parking
-2 Pets Welcome w/ Additional Fee
-1,220 Square Feet
City Permit #: VRR-2024-1208

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number VRR-2021-0509
Property # 3888057
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

About the area

Big Bear Lake

Located in Big Bear Central, a neighbourhood in Big Bear Lake, this cabin is in a rural area and on a lake. Big Bear Mountain Resort and Snow Summit are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit The Village. Bowling Barn and Big Bear Solar Observatory are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, snowboarding and skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.
View more Cabin rentals in Big Bear LakeOpens in a new window
Map
Big Bear Lake, CA

What's nearby

  • Big Bear Marina - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • The Village - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain - 8 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Pine Knot Marina - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Big Bear Visitor Center - 13 min walk - 1.2 km

Getting around

  • San Bernardino, CA (SBD-San Bernardino Intl.) - 67 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Oakside - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Tropicali - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Café Crêpe - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Teddy Bear Restaurant - ‬13 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is How Sweet It Is - Downtown Village Retreat at Big Bear pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

How much is parking at How Sweet It Is - Downtown Village Retreat at Big Bear?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at How Sweet It Is - Downtown Village Retreat at Big Bear?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at How Sweet It Is - Downtown Village Retreat at Big Bear?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is How Sweet It Is - Downtown Village Retreat at Big Bear located?

Located in Big Bear Central, this cabin is within a 10-minute walk of Big Bear Lake and The Village. Big Bear Marina and Bowling Barn are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 15 out of 20 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 20 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 20 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 20 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 20 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Check-in

9.2/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.2/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

David R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay in Big Bear

The hosts were incredibly accommodating and super responsive. The house is in walking distance to all the best spots and easy to access
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 July 2025
Thank you so much for the kind words! We're so glad to hear you enjoyed the location and that our team was able to assist you throughout your stay. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we’d love to welcome you back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice Place for a ski weekend

Property is new, well maintained and well appointed.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
So happy you enjoyed your ski weekend here at our sweet cabin David. Our team is looking forward to hosting you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sam M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely cozy pad with all your mod coms

Great location, clean, sung, warm, recommended
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Thanks so much Sam! Our team hopes to host you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful upgraded vacation rental

We had a great and relaxing time. We enjoyed so much we extended our time twice. Great fireplace and most comfortable beds we have ever slept in. Due to 15 inch snowfall we didn’t go outside and use deck, BBQ, or fire pit - looked nice though. When we arrived they had workers finishing up the new level gravel driveway which makes it so easy to park. Will definitely stay again.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Hi Steve! Thank you so much for the 5-star review! I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay! We can't wait to see you again. Have a wonderful day!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

steve g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend getaways

We came with our daughter and her husband and loved this house. It was decorated with a mountain theme. Had everything we needed to bbq ,cooked, played games, had a wonderful time. The beds were very comfortable, the layout was perfect, our daughter took the upstairs bedroom and bath and we had the first floor bed and bath. We will definitely return, it was clean and had everything we needed. We just wish we could have had early check in.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Hi Steve! Thank you so much for the 5-star review! I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay! We can't wait to see you again. Have a wonderful day!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Bayley S.

Beautiful Home!

This is truly a lovely, cozy and well done home. They have impeccable taste ...an Italian/Cabin feel. -Very Clean. -Quiet location & very close to all of the action. -Have great kitchen supplies, electronic system and a comfy couch for lounging next to the fire. -Note that we only had 1 car and due to the snow plow and lack of shoveling, there is no way to park a 2nd car in the winter. Overall I highly recommend for a small family or two couples and will most likely be back!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Big Bear Vacations Thanks you for the Wonderful review. It is tough after a big snow storm to find the same parking as in ideal weather. We Thank you for your understanding in this department. We would love to have you back very soon. Remember, returning Guests get a discount!
Verified

6/10 Okay

Heidi T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Cute cottage, needs upgrades

Our stay was overall very nice, however master bed and couch have huge indents in them as though someone had laid in the exact spot for a very lengthy time making them uncomfortable and hard to get out of, in need of replacing Hot water only stayed hot for 5 minutes, management office sent a very friendly man to check it out, who told us only a 40 gallon hot water heater, we had to take turns on different nights to shower, on a side note it was very cold during our stay, so we do understand a little in inconvenience in that area We had originally booked a different house that was not ready as it was being renovated, the management company gave us a few alternates, but one of them got rented right as we selected it which was the same day we got the notification, that part wasn’t super cool, they should have given us options and at least waited a day for us to respond before making those same properties available, so we had to settle with this option Overall this place was nice, clean and convenient to activities, just the comfort level was not there
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
We're sorry to hear that you did not find our accommodations to be up to your standards, and we would like to apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. Please know that this was not our standard nor the experience that we wish for our guests. We will use your feedback to make us better and to ensure this doesn’t happen again. It is our hope that you will give us the opportunity to better serve you in the near future.
Verified

4/10 Poor

maggie g.

Disliked: Communication, listing accuracy

Horrible Rental Agency

The 2 good things was that my family had fun sledding and snow play right on the property. The cabin is much nicer then the pictures listed. This cabin has slow and poor wifi. The upstairs tub/shower combo smelled of sewage and no water came out. Upon arrival the driveway was not plowed and we had to park illegally on the street. The driveway was plowed the following afternoon. I will never book another property through Big Bear Vacation Rentals ever again. I contacted them several times about the tub not working. All they responded was that they filed a report. No one ever came to the property to fix or even look at the tub. We did not get the amenities that we paid for. We filled a complaint with Big Bear and no one from that company has ever contacted us to rectify this situation.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Thank you for choosing Big Bear Vacations and for taking the time to leave a review. Your feedback is valuable to us, as we strive to improve with each and every stay. We’re extremely sorry that your experience with us was not up to par. Upkeep and cleanliness are very important to us, so we are disappointed that this was not the case during your stay. We are happy to hear the management team was able to compensate you for the issues you faced. We hope you will give us another chance to provide you with a better experience in the future. Thank you again for choosing Big Bear Vacations.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Juan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

How Sweet It Is Review

We very much enjoyed our stay at How Sweet It Is. It's a beautiful place, well maintained and very cozy. However, we were disappointed to discover that the upstairs master tub/shower was not functional. We weren't informed about this ahead of time, but it was clearly out of order (the knobs just turned with no resistance and no water). While this did not significantly negatively impact our experience, it was disappointing and necessitated all 4 of us using the downstairs shower. Also - the steep driveway is clearly problematic if there is snow/ice, which there was overnight on our 2nd night. Thankfully I anticipated this and did not park in the driveway. I parked at the top of the driveway, off the road but close enough for me to worry that I might get a ticket. And even with this, I spent an hour getting the car out (a sedan with tire chains) on our check-out morning, making everything rushed so that we could get out before the housekeepers came. At the bottom of the driveway there is a significant drop-off, conjuring visions of the car sliding through the barrier and down the hillside below. While there isn't really anything that you can do about this, a heads-up and/or direction on where/how to park with snow/ice might be helpful in the future. All in all, however, we had a very pleasant stay and enjoyed the house. Thank you.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Thank you so much Juan! So very sorry about the bath tub situation, we compensated you for this unfortunate situation however still feel terrible that this happened. Glad that you enjoyed the chalet and the location. We understand this is a private driveway and does require 4 wheel drive in the winter but are working with local snow plow drivers to ensure better access in the winter months for future guests. We hope to host you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Pleasant stay

Very nice property, has a modern feel, unlike a typical mountain cabin.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
So thankful for your kind review! Our cottage is a bit on the modern side for most traditional cabins here in Big Bear and we are so glad that you appreciated these details. You really can't beat this downtown Village location year round- hope you were able to walk to the shops or the lake while you were here!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lori E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We love How Sweet It Is!

We absolutely love this place. We have stayed here a few times and it just perfect for our family of 4 and our pup! It’s close to town and is pretty quiet with a good sledding hill 😁
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Hi Lori! Thank you so much for the 5-star review! This means the world to us. I am so happy that you enjoyed your stay! We can't wait to see you again. Have an amazing day!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicolette K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little weekend getaway

Within walking distance to the Alpine slide and rollercoaster. Super quaint and cute, pet friendly and cozy.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Hi there Nicolette! Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review. We are so happy to hear that you enjoyed yourselves and that the home had everything you needed! We hope to see you again soon, have an amazing day!
Verified

8/10 Good

Dominic E.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

19th anniversary get away.

Overall great experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Dominic! Thank you so much for leaving us a review! I am so happy that you enjoyed your stay and we can't wait to see you again. Have a great day!
Verified

8/10 Good

Carlos M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

Nice place but needs cleaning.

We stayed at this property for a long weekend. The place is cute and cozy. It was centrally located, quiet and just like the pictures show. Our only issue with this place is that it was dusty and there was a substantial amount of dirt underneath the carpets. If they kept this place clean it would be a 5 star all day.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
How Sweet It Is certainly offers a cute and cozy downtown location. Glad we were able to address your concerns and you were able to still enjoy your trip. Looking forward to your return visit to earn your 5 star review!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tara W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location

Really enjoyed staying here. Super comfy bed and quite cozy inside. The location was a short distance to the village. Parking was a little tricky probably because of the size of our trucks but we managed
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
We appreciate your response Tara! We hope your trip to Big Bear was memorable and we are honored you chose us to be our host!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Snow trip

The whole family really loved the house. Very cozy and comfortable. We will definitely look to stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Thanks so much Lisa! Our team looks forward to hosting you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marcos N.

cozy, clean, real cabin

stayed for a weekend with the family. Me, wife and two toddlers. it's a very nice, new remodel. great decor, very clean, real cabin feel. great location if you want to be close to the action, yet on a secluded street so still feels like you're in the sticks. just a quarter mile down the street you can be on the main BLVD. Only issue I had is the fire place and fire pit are both gas burning and not wood burning. other than that we thoroughly enjoyed the stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Yes! Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful review of our property! This is the experience that our Big Bear Vacations Team truly strives for and pride ourselves in being able to provide for our guests. We hope you made some wonderful memories in Big Bear and that you return to stay again many times. Your feedback has been shared with the Team and we are all looking forward to helping you plan your next memorable vacation!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Lori E.

We loved this cabin so much. It was perfect for our family of 4!

We love this place so much and really would love to rent it again. It had a great little sledding hill in the back and great woods views. It was cozy and newly remodeled. Great kitchen and cozy family room. The driveway was a little scary but other than that everything was perfect! Close to village too.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
Yes! This is the experience we truly strive for. We hope you made some wonderful memories in Big Bear and that you return many times. Your feedback has been shared with the Team. We are looking forward to helping you plan your next visit.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Christina V.

Best little Cabin in the woods

How sweet it is: what a pleasant surprise. Newly updated and so unique. Tasteful and yet rugged .. a definite stay at the mini cottage palace. The drive-way was a little tricky carrying luggage but other than that our stay was a total delight. Can't wait to go back!
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2023
You are important to us! Thank you for being our Guest and taking the time to write such a lovely review. We hope you will be returning soon.
Verified

6/10 Okay

Sandra F.

Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026

About the host

Hosted by Big Bear Vacations

Host profile image
We're here to ensure a 5-star experience for every guest. Our team offers 24/7 support and local experience packages.

Reservation Holder Must Be 21+ - ID Required for Access
Rental Agreement & Good Neighbor Policy Required*

Good Neighbor Policy enforced at all times. Removing trash and Wash Dishes. No Smoking, Parties, Events, Loud Music, Street Parking, or Over Occupancy Allowed. Fines/Evictions possible by both Code Enforcement and Big Bear Vacations.

Check-in after 4:00 pm - Check-out before 10:00 am
No Early Arrival/Late Departure During Peak Seasons or Holidays.

There is No Street Parking Allowed in Big Bear- Make Every Attempt to Get Cars Off the Street for Snowplows. November thru April the law requires snow chains in your cars.

Pet Policy-Pet Friendly Homes Only-$40/Pet/Night
Pets must be acknowledged and may not be left unattended in the home. Owners must clean up after pets; subject to added cleaning fees for violations.

All homes include clean linens, and fresh bath towels for the occupancy. A kitchen with basic cookware and small starter amount of dish soap, toilet paper, and trash bags will be supplied. Paper towels, coffee filters/coffee, specialty appliances, nor condiments/spices/oils are supplied.

No Pay-Per-View Ordering in any homes.

No refunds/credits for cancellations or trip interruptions due to acts of nature, (especially snow, fire, power outages) weather, road conditions, mechanical or electrical failures, spa malfunctions, or other equipment factors beyond our control.

This is a forested mountain community home to critters- animals or insects you may encounter are spiders, moths, flies, squirrels, gophers, bears, coyotes, burro, bear, bats, etc. Our team inspects prior to arrival but cannot guarantee the home will be free of these forest critters.

We reserve the right to offer a comparable property or issue a full refund if circumstances arise that are beyond our control and your property is made unavailable for any reason.

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