We were visiting Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino mountains and intended to explore the area the next day. We booked a room at the Marina Riviera right on the Lake and reached the hotel at about 3:15 p.m. Checking in was easy. The room was comfortable, with a nice view of the lake from the balcony. Unfortunately, our rental car had developed a problem just as we reached the hotel parking lot. A lot of time was spent seeking help. Finally, the rental car company said they would give us a replacement vehicle, but only at their nearest counter at the Ontario International Airport some 60 miles away. It was already dark, so we decided to give up the Marina Riviera room and seek a hotel near the car rental location. While we were thinking about the forfeited rent and the missed opportunity to tour the Big Bear Lake area, we ran into Ana Arriaga, the hotel receptionist. As we told her our story, we mentioned that the room rent had already been paid, but we would not stay the night there. Immediately, Ana not only understood our situation and empathized with us, but also volunteered to talk to the Manager, Raymond Landa. Within minutes, Raymond authorized Ana to refund our rent. She told us the news and credited our credit card with the full rental amount right away. So, while we did not get to use a well-furnished room lakeside all night, we appreciated the kindness and courtesy of Ana and Raymond. On the next trip to the Bear Lake area, we will stay at the Marina Riviera and recommend it to our friends wanting to visit the region.
We chose Marina Riviera because we stayed at this location in the past a d fell in love with its location. Walking distance to downtown Big Bear, walking distance to the Marina. This hotel was remodeled and bought out by the cassetta group. The rooms are nice, would be tight for a family; bathroom shower is open, so you will definitely have water leakage. Beds are comfortable, however I would consider the hotel to be a soft opening. Lots of work still being done around the hotel, took away the enjoyment of peaceful environment, plus while sitting outside of our room, our view of the lake was partially blocked by trucks working. I will definitely go back for a visit, once the hotel is complete with renovations. We also missed the refrigerator in our room, had to buy ice to keep our wine cold, so the ice chest in the room took up more space. We brought our small dog, park is walking distance from the rooms. e
