Postcard Cabins Big Bear, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy

Staying here by the night just isn’t worth the price anymore. I used to visit now and then, before Marriott took over, but the good old “getaway” seems gone. Since the takeover, service and accommodations have been poor, and it feels like a money grab based only on the location. Basic cooking supplies they used to provide, like salt, pepper, olive oil, and aluminum foil, are gone, so bring more yourself. There’s now a destination fee that includes firewood. When I asked for more, they said the restock crew would refill only when they came around, and only if I was onsite. I waited for hours, sitting there, and they may have missed me, or I would’ve had to wait longer. They can’t just restock on their own. The whole setup feels inconvenient and stingy. If I’d known service would be like this, I would’ve brought my own wood and skipped the fee. Before, I only used their firewood when I really needed it.

We had to share evidence of the problems we experienced with Airbnb and only got our money back through them. The person they employ as a host tried to manipulate us into paying more, ignored our concerns, and even hung up on us. If I could, I’d give this place zero stars. It was the worst and most unprofessional place I’ve experienced. I absolutely don’t recommend it. Don’t let these people ruin your vacation.

There are nice views, and it’s close to the lake, though this is Arrowhead Lake, not Big Bear. The Regina looked mostly like the online photos, but maintenance could be better. The cabin isn’t very private, with other cabins just a few feet away. It had a strong musty, mildew smell, probably because the floor is carpeted, even in the bathroom. There’s black mold from water running through the carpet, and the heater/AC unit is really loud. Not bad, but there’s room for improvement.

The cabin was dirty and not fully working, which made it hard to relax. We’ve stayed at another Postcard cabin location and loved it, but this one was disappointing. Communication from staff was great, and they replied quickly whenever we needed something. Still, we had to keep asking for items: there were no dog bowls, despite paying the $50 pet fee ahead of time, no lighters for the fire, and the lantern in our room wouldn’t charge or turn on. Staff did bring us a replacement lantern and lighters. The cleaning was poor. There was hair and dust around the window and on the bed. The shower handle and head were grimy, with dirt and random hairs on the toilet bowl. The first aid kit was empty and had hair in it too. The AC also didn’t work. For what we paid, it wasn’t worth it at all.