Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the best time of the year to observe the night sky?
Each star gazing opportunity is uniquely different. Weather permitting, every night of the year presents an wide range of objects to see: earth's moon, planets, galaxies, star clusters, nebula, comets, lunar eclipses, meteors, satellites. 

How are we able to use the telescope in the observatory?
The use of the observatory is only during the guided stargazing tour. The telescope is controlled by your innkeeper/star guide at all times. Guests may also use their own telescopes and binoculars from the inn's second story deck. 

How should we dress for our stay?
The dress in Big Bear Lake is very casual. Daytime and nighttime temperatures can vary greatly and can change in a short amount of time. Big Bear Lake is at an elevation of about 7200 feet and can reach daytime temperatures in the summer of over 80 degrees and nighttime temperature in the winter below 20 degrees, not including the wind chill. Always bring plenty of warm clothes, gloves, hats, etc. Dress in layers so you can take off the extra clothes if you get too warm.

Policies

Payment: Cash, all major credit cards, EZ Check within 21 days of arrival date.
Deposit: One night or 50% of entire stay at time of reservation. Balance due 14 days in advance of stay.

Confirmation: Once your reservation has been confirmed and your deposit verified, you will be mailed a formal confirmation along with any other information you may have requested. 

Cancellation: Should your plans change after making reservations, please notify us at least 14 days in advance to receive a 75% refund of your deposit. It will not be possible to refund any deposit of a reservation that is canceled with less than 14 days advance notice unless the canceled room is rebooked. A $50 (50% holidays) cancellation fee will be assessed. For holidays and special events, a 30-day cancellation policy is in effect. 

For an inn buyout on non-holiday and special event weekends, we have a sliding scale of deposits - all non-refundable. 25% due at time of booking. 25% more at 60 days ahead. Balance in full at 30 days ahead. For an inn buyout for holidays and special events, full payment is due 60 days ahead. NO refunds. 

Check-in: 3pm - 8pm. Please advise if you will be early or late. Check-out: 11am.

Weather: Each year, Big Bear is blessed with an average of 320 days of sun with blue skies by day and star filled skies at night, making it perfect for stargazing. However, weather forecasts are unreliable and clear weather cannot be guaranteed. If weather conditions are not conducive for the stargazing portion of the program using the telescope, a 'rain check' will be given (for the stargazing program only). 

Children: Astronomy and stargazing program may be appropriate for older, well-behaved children. Licensing restrictions limits room occupancy to two persons, regardless of age. 

Pets: No pets allowed. (Innkeeper has pets, but they are not allowed in the inn.) 
Smoking: No smoking permitted in the inn. Smoking is permitted in designated outdoor areas. 

Alcohol: Alcoholic consumption is permitted. In the future, we plan to serve wine during the evening social hour. You may also bring your own. Please consume with moderation and be observant of other guests.

Quiet Times: Some of our guest often have plans that start very early in the morning. Please keep voices, TV, and radios low after 10pm and before 8am. Please vacate the library, living room and dining room before 10pm. The game room, pool and sauna may be used until 11pm. 

Refreshment Center: A refrigerator, microwave and beverage service are available in the 24-hour refreshment center located in the dining room. Per health and safety ordinances, the kitchen is off-limits to guests. Cooking is not allowed at any time in the guest areas.