Since August 2020, Hillcrest Suites & Cabins has been under the ownership of Katey. The business offers 12 accommodations year-round for visitors to reserve, two of which are handicap accessible. Many of those who visit Hillcrest Suites & Cabins have found enjoyment in exploring the neighboring San Bernardino National Forest as well as Big Bear Lake. Every season can offer a variety of activities for people to undertake during their visit. Hiking, kayaking, wakeboarding, boating, stargazing, and picnicking can be arranged in the spring and summer, while the winter season typically draws those who take an interest in snow tubing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and skiing, to name a few.
Hillcrest Suites & Cabins occupies an acre of land in the southern region of California. In total, there are 12 accommodations available for guests to reserve, which are divided into the following types: 8 suites, 2 rooms, and 2 stand-alone cabins. Each unit is characterized by its own unique theme, as some are adorned with woodland-animal decorations while others exhibit a recreation theme such as bicycling or alpine skiing. The eight suites and two cabins are all equipped with kitchens and fireplaces. Katey, the owner of the establishment, observes that the most popular accommodations tend to be Suite #4 and Suite #11 due to their size. Both of these units are approximately 450 square feet. Suite #4— which the owner mentions to be particularly popular among families—sleeps 5 occupants, while Suite #11 sleeps a maximum of 7 people. It should be noted that Suite #7 and Cabin #6 are handicap accessible.
Upon arrival, guests check in at the property's main office area which also sells firewood, beverages, and memorabilia. According to Katey, the most popular souvenir items that are sold in the office are her handmade bears for $9.99. The office can also provide pamphlets on some of the nearby activities. A few pastimes are available to patrons on-site over the course of their stay, including foosball and corn hole; however, a number of outdoor recreational attractions can be found in the vicinity as well. The property is situated in fairly close proximity to San Bernardino National Forest where several hiking, biking, and off-roading trails wind throughout the mountains. Skiing draws a considerable amount of tourists to the area during the winter season, as two ski resorts are within a five-minute drive of the property. During the summer, lake recreation on Big Bear Lake is a relatively popular pastime. Another significant attraction is the Baldwin Lake Stables which offers horseback riding tours.
For those who would prefer visiting specific sites as opposed to engaging in active outdoor undertakings, Big Bear Zoo may pique their interest. Katey remarks that Big Bear Zoo operates as a "rescue zoo," as she explains, "80% of the animals that are brought in are returned to the wild." In addition to this, Hillcrest Suites & Cabins is located near a pirate ship that Katey says served as the setting for a scene in the movie The Bandits. On the ship, one may find a bar for adults and a treasure chest with gifts for the younger demographic of visitors. This ship also offers tours of the lake for those who may be interested. Moreover, Katey comments that the establishment is close to "a ghost town that was the site of the largest gold strike in southern California." As the month of October approaches, Halloween decorations are often set up around this ghost town site. Aside from the previously listed attractions that guests can explore during their stay, there are several breweries and restaurants within walking distance as well. Some of the dining options that Katey recommends to her patrons are Santana and Mavericks Bar & Grill, Teddy Bear Restaurant, Sweet Basil Bistro, and Azteca Grill Mexican Restaurant.
Katey, the owner of Hillcrest Suites & Cabins, finds enjoyment in building relationships with those who stay at the property, as she remarks, "I have had several guests tell me that it feels more like they're visiting a friend rather than staying at a hotel." Interaction between Katey and her guests occurs somewhat frequently, and she intends to check in on everyone throughout their stay. In a further effort to maintain this social atmosphere, the owner tries to answer the phones and stay in contact with patrons 24/7 should they have any questions or concerns. In some ways, Katey also tries to provide concierge service; for example, the owner has purchased tickets to an event for guests on one occasion. "I do everything I can for my guests," Katey expresses.
Many visitors have given positive feedback to the owner. One person commented in a review, saying, "The setting is personal, homey, and charming. Our room was clean and cozy and had everything we needed. I like the décor as well; not cookie-cutter like chain hotels but uniquely decorated with the mountain theme." Others have highlighted the hospitality that was provided by the owners, as another previous guest said, "Katey and Mike were so gracious and warm towards us. We appreciate the helpfulness, the amenities, comfortable beds, parking space, and privacy too!"
With regard to policies, those who visit Hillcrest Suites & Cabins are expected to abide by certain guidelines during their time there. If the maximum occupancy of guests is exceeded in any of the accommodations, there is an additional $15 fee per night. Smoking is prohibited inside every cabin, room, and suite, and violators of this policy will be charged $250. Every night, a quiet time is enforced starting at 10:00 p.m., during which everyone must keep noise to a minimum.
Hillcrest Suites & Cabins operates year-round, with its busiest season of operation typically taking place in the winter. Katey presumes that its popularity during this season is primarily due to the winter activities, specifically skiing. A few events are held around Big Bear Lake, namely Oktoberfest and the Kodiak Race, which also draw a relatively high quantity of tourists. For those who are hoping to host their wedding at Hillcrest Suites & Cabins, Katey says that they are welcome to do so, and there is an elopement package available for newlyweds.
As of August 27, 2020, Katey has been the owner of Hillcrest Suites & Cabins. Katey's favorite part about being the owner is the people who stay at the establishment. "I have the best guests," she remarks. Multiple updates have been made to the property under Katey's ownership. The accommodations were short of USB ports prior to Katey's arrival, and she added a minimum of four USB ports in each unit. Roku TVs, HDMI chords, and free Wi-Fi were also new additions to the accommodations, with the intent to add to the overall experience at Hillcrest Suites & Cabins. The owner also notes that 11 of the 13 beds were replaced as well as most of the mattresses. Concerning any future plans for the business, Katey hopes to someday add more air conditioners to the cabins, convert the bedrooms into king-size rooms, and add a gazebo to the grounds.
40241 Big Bear Blvd
Big Bear Lake, California 92315
United States
Bed and Breakfast
