Paddleboards make a splash at Big Bear Lake

Paddleboarding has found its way to the fresh, sparkling waters of Big Bear Lake. Ready to give it a whirl? Beginners clinics will be part of the fourth annual Big Bear PaddleFest, July 9 and 10, at the resort community in the San Bernardino Mountains, about a two-hour drive east of Los Angeles.

Last year was the first time that paddleboarding had been part of the festival, which also offers two days of canoeing and kayaking. On July 9, local experts will teach clinics for beginning and advanced paddlers in kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.

Races in the three sports, scheduled for July 10, will be open to all levels of paddlers. The races include 5-, 10- and 20-kilometer distances. A fun paddle is free for kids 12 and under.

Paddleboards -- long, sturdy boards first used in the ocean and popular off the shores of Malibu -- have found a niche in Big Bear. Marina owners attribute their popularity to the lake’s calm waters and scenic surroundings.

Stand-up paddleboarding is “easy to learn, a great way to explore flat waters, and nonstop fun,” said John Sanders, owner of Captain John’s Fawn Harbor & Marina. “It’s like surfing, but much easier. If you can stand, you can paddle.”

Note to drivers: It’s now easier to get up to Big Bear, thanks to the reopening of Highway 330 last week after a six-month closure that was caused by storm damage.

Info: Big Bear PaddleFest, or call Jim or Janet Dooley at (909) 866-3414. Clinics are $25, race entry $45 (plus a $10-per-day lake permit). It’s free to watch the races.