Your Guide to August Getaways in Big Bear Lake & California’s Coachella Valley
Late-summer in Southern California is a study in contrasts: cool, pine-scented mornings in Big Bear Lake give way to dazzling desert sunsets in the Coachella Valley. Whether you’re chasing high-altitude adventure or low-key poolside vibes, August is packed with concerts, festivals, star parties, and one-of-a-kind local traditions. Mark your calendar, book your Meredith Lodging vacation rental, and make the most of every last summer day!
Events in Big Bear Lake
Experience the Best Festivals, Concerts, and Local Celebrations
Tour de Big Bear Gran Fondo & Cycling Expo
August 01–03, 2025
Bear Mountain Resort, Big Bear Lake
Three days of cycling fun with a range of rides for all skill levels—from family-friendly routes to a challenging 100-mile century ride that climbs to 8,443 ft. Aid stations serve bacon, pie, and tacos while crowds cheer you on. Off the bike, enjoy the lively outdoor expo, craft beer garden, and live music under the pines.
The Marcus King Band at Snow Summit
August 16, 2025
Snow Summit Outdoor Amphitheater, Big Bear Lake
Grammy-nominated artist Marcus King brings blues-rock soul to the mountains in this unforgettable open-air concert. Ride the chairlift to a high-altitude amphitheater, soak in the sunset views, and groove beneath the stars. Craft beer, food trucks, and a mountain vibe make this one of the season’s best nights out.
SkyFest Big Bear – Perseid Meteor Celebration
August 22–23, 2025
Big Bear Discovery Center & Snow Summit
Stargaze during the peak of the Perseid meteor shower with telescope demos, ranger talks, and constellation tours. Choose from twilight ziplining, guided night hikes, or campfire sing-alongs. Families will love the kid-friendly astronomy activities, while adults enjoy the rare chance to experience Big Bear’s pristine night skies.
Events in the Coachella Valley
Discover Iconic Music Festivals, Cultural Gatherings, and Desert Happenings
Los Dos Carnales
August 01, 2025
Fantasy Springs Resort, Indio
This chart-topping norteño duo kicks off August with high-energy ballads and crowd-pleasing performances. Expect a full house and an electric atmosphere.
Yelawolf
August 02, 2025
Rancho Mirage
Southern hip-hop artist Yelawolf brings his gritty sound and dynamic stage presence to one of the desert’s most intimate venues. A must-see for fans of rap-rock fusion.
Gipsy Kings
August 08, 2025
Rancho Mirage
Celebrate a night of flamenco guitars, rumba rhythms, and passionate vocals with the internationally loved Gipsy Kings. Dance to “Bamboleo” under the desert sky.
Kali Uchis
August 23, 2025
Acrisure Arena, Palm Desert
Colombian-American pop sensation Kali Uchis lights up the stage with hits like “Telepatía” and “Moonlight.” Her only SoCal arena show this summer promises stunning visuals and vocals.
Alicia Villarreal
August 23, 2025
Fantasy Springs Resort, Indio
The powerhouse voice of Grupo Límite returns with her solo hits and signature regional Mexican flair. A nostalgic and fiery night for Latin music fans.
Summer Golf Experience
Every Saturday in August
La Quinta, Palm Desert, Indio
Escape the heat with early-morning tee times at premier desert courses including PGA WEST and Desert Willow. Weekly shotgun tournaments offer casual competition and unbeatable scenery.
VillageFest
August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2025
Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Every Thursday night, downtown Palm Springs transforms into a pedestrian-only street fair with local art, handmade goods, food trucks, live music, and community spirit.
I·CON·IC Sundays Brunch
August 10, 24, 31 , 2025
Cathedral City
Big personalities, even bigger wigs, and bottomless mimosas. This high-energy brunch delivers comedy, fierce performances, and an inclusive desert party vibe.
Star Party at the Monument
August 30, 2025
Coachella Valley, Palm Springs
Join astronomers for a guided laser tour of the cosmos in one of the darkest skies in the Coachella Valley. Ideal for all ages and perfect for winding down the month.
Insider Pick: Two-Climate Day Trip
Start your day with misty lake reflections and coffee on Big Bear’s Alpine Pedal Path. By noon, descend into the Coachella Valley for a refreshing date shake in Indio and a poolside siesta in Palm Springs. End the day with a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to cooler mountain air and a sunset picnic on Mount San Jacinto.
August Weather at a Glance
Big Bear Lake
Sunny, dry, and mild with daytime highs in the upper 70s °F and cool evenings dipping into the 50s. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms roll through, bringing dramatic skies and mountain rainbows. Late-summer is prime for lakeside lounging, fishing, and hiking among fragrant pines. The crisp night air makes it ideal for stargazing and cozy firepit evenings.
Coachella Valley
Expect hot, dry days with average highs around 108 °F and warm nights in the high 70s. Look for late-summer monsoon clouds and vivid desert sunsets. Poolside afternoons, shaded patios, and indoor escapes like art museums and spas offer perfect ways to stay cool. Early risers can enjoy breathtaking desert hikes before the midday heat sets in.
Packing Tip: Bring layers! A fleece jacket for mountain mornings and breathable cotton for desert afternoons will keep you comfortable from sunup to sundown.
Find Your California Home-Away-From-Home
From lakefront lodges with kayaks and decks to retro-chic Palm Springs villas with private pools, Meredith Lodging offers the perfect stay for every kind of August adventure. Browse our curated California vacation rentals and lock in your end-of-summer escape today!