With chic design, lakeside views, and the best pizza on the mountain, Hotel Marina Riviera is the ultimate couples escape just two hours from L.A.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend with your partner or looking for a cozy spot to unwind after a mountain Pride event, Hotel Marina Riviera in Big Bear Lake is the place to be. This stylish new boutique hotel is already redefining what a gay-friendly mountain retreat can look like – think vintage-inspired ski lodge meets Scandinavian spa meets summer camp for grown-ups. And yes, there’s pizza. Really good pizza.
A Design-Lover’s Dream, Just Two Hours from L.A.
Tucked into the shoreline of Big Bear Lake and surrounded by towering pines, Hotel Marina Riviera is a breath of fresh alpine air—especially for LGBTQ+ couples craving a romantic, design-forward getaway outside the usual Palm Springs scene. Recently reopened by Casetta (the team behind some of Southern California’s most charming boutique stays), the hotel updates its 1968 roots with a queer eye for detail: cedar-scented walkways, moody peacock-green interiors, wood-paneled saunas, and vintage books stacked by your bedside.
Each of the 42 rooms and six cozy cabins has its own aesthetic character, with lakeside king rooms perfect for couples who want to wake up to sunrise views—and maybe a little snuggling under flannel blankets.
Big Queer Energy with Small-Town Charm
Big Bear has long been known as SoCal’s go-to ski town, but in recent years it’s become a favorite for queer travelers looking for something a little more laid back and nature-forward. With its pet-friendly policies (bring your pup!), local LGBTQ-owned businesses, and events like Big Bear Romp and the growing Mountain Pride Weekend, this alpine escape is becoming a low-key queer haven.
Hotel Marina Riviera fits right into that vibe. Whether you’re soaking in the heated lakeside pool, watching the sunset from an outdoor barrel sauna, or grabbing craft cocktails at the lobby bar, it’s all designed for connection, comfort, and community.
The Best Pizza and Cocktails on the Mountain? Yes, Queen.
We need to talk about De La Nonna, the hotel’s on-site restaurant and arguably the best place to eat in Big Bear. Known for its DTLA roots and focaccia-style pizza with crispy cheese halos, this spot serves up queer date-night perfection. Try the White Pie (with Japanese potato and pesto) or go spicy with The Pepp and a drizzle of hot honey. Add a natural wine or frozen Aperol spritz to the mix, and you’ve got an evening that’s as delicious as it is dreamy.
There’s also a rotating menu of fun snacks (we see you, tinned fish sampler), and a lakeside deck where you can flirt with your favorite person between bites under string lights and pine trees.
For Lovers Who Like a Little Adventure
When you’re not lounging in your cabin or making eyes over a bottle of orange wine, Hotel Marina Riviera is the perfect basecamp for all the Big Bear adventures – gay or otherwise. In summer, rent kayaks, paddleboards, or bikes and hit the lake or scenic trails like Castle Rock and Cougar Crest. In winter, it’s all about snowboarding, snowshoeing, and après-ski cuddles by the fire. Guests can also borrow bikes from the hotel or take a dip in the cold plunge after a sunrise sauna session.
Pro tip: it’s a quick walk to Big Bear Village, where you’ll find LGBTQ-welcoming shops, wine bars, and cozy brunch spots that make the town feel warm and inclusive year-round.
Coming Soon: A Spa Built for Two
A full-service spa is expected to open soon, but there are already plenty of wellness perks in place: saunas (indoor and out), a small fitness room, and a cold plunge for the brave-hearted. It’s like a spa retreat in the woods—only without the cell service guilt trip.
LGBTQ+ Friendly, Pet Friendly, and Absolutely Romantic
Hotel Marina Riviera makes it easy to unwind with someone you love – whether that’s your partner, your chosen family, or your dog. And while it’s not a party hotel, the vibe is cool, casual, and affirming for queer guests who just want to escape the city and be themselves in a stunning mountain setting.
With rooms starting at $199 a night, this spot hits the sweet spot for couples who want romantic, relaxing, and ridiculously good-looking all in one.
Whether you’re hiking by day and hot tubbing by night, or sharing a pizza and plotting your next queer adventure, Hotel Marina Riviera is one of the best places for LGBTQ couples to stay in Big Bear.
So pack your flannel, grab your favorite person, and head to the mountains. Love (and crispy cheese crust) awaits.
Book your stay at Hotel Marina Riviera
For a list of all of the upcoming activities in the area, be sure to check out visitbigbear.com.
