Sibel & Julian
Things To Do and Restaurants
Pinecrest Lake Hike
This is our favorite hike in the area! We recommend starting the hike at the boat docks and going around the lake counter clockwise. This hike is about 4miles long and takes a few hours. We normally pack a lunch and go for a swim at the half way point. Most of the hike is in the sun so bring a hat and lots of sunscreen. Dogs are allowed on this trail on-leash.
Cleo's Bath Hike
This route follows the same trail as the Pinecrest Lake hike, however at about the half way point you hike away from the lake into the mountains - follow the trail head signs to Cleo's bath. The hike is about 5miles round trip; however it requires a steep climb up rocks to get to Cleo's Bath so might be hard with small children and dogs. The bath is actually quite cold but beautiful! Be sure to pack lunch and a swimsuit!
Boat Rentals and Fishing at the Lake
Pinecrest Lake is the most fished lake in all of California (for good reason!). Sibel grew up fishing on this lake and has caught many trout :) There are early bird specials available at the Marina for those who want to rent a motor boat (don't forget your fishing license if you want to go fishing). If you don't want to rent a boat, you can successfully fish from the shore as well. In addition to renting motorboats, you can rent kayaks, paddle boats and party boats. Make sure to make reservations ahead of time for party boats as it can be hard to get a reservation in the summer. We have also rented paddle boards in the Bay Area and brought them up to the lake; the lake is perfect to paddle board on since it isn't too big and the wind is never too strong. If fishing isn't your thing, then bring a floaty and go for a swim! The water is nice and clean!
Pinecrest Amphitheater
Every night during the summer, there are movies shown at the outdoor amphitheater at the lake. We go to the movies every year we go camping-they always show movies that are often still in theaters! Make sure to bring a chair, blanket and cash. Get to the theater early and put a chair or blanket down to make sure you have a good seat.
Horseback Riding
Great place to go horseback riding! Prices and location are listed on the website-located near Pinecrest.
Wine Tasting
Murphy's is about 1 hour drive from Pinecrest Lake. Click on the link above to see all options for wine tasting nearby.
Mia's - One of the only restaurants in town
Please note there are VERY few dining options at Pinecrest and we have heard good things about Mia's. It's about a 15-20min drive from Pinecrest, but we heard they deliver so keep that in mind. We always bring up a bunch of food and prepare food at either the campsite or a cabin. Most of the lodging options have kitchens so please keep this in mind. There is a Safeway on the drive up in Sonora which is where we stop for groceries. For last minute items, there is a general store right next to the lake which carries just about anything you might need.
Steam Donkey Restaurant - one of the only other restaurants in town
This is Uncle Rasim's (Sibel's Uncle) favorite place to eat at, although most of us still prefer a home cooked meal at the campsite. A good option if cooking in a kitchen or campsite is not available or you'd like an evening out. Located right next to the general store at the lake.
The Serene Bean
Coffee cart with pastries, tea, snacks, and breakfast burritos right next to the general store and Steam Donkey. Open from 6am - 6pm.
Strawberry inn
Strawberry Inn has a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Kennedy Meadows - Fly Fishing
Historic horse station about 45mins away from the lake; fly fishing is available in the river nearby.
The Pinecone Cafe
This is supposed to be a great spot for breakfast/lunch! About 20mins away from the Chalet.
Grocery Shopping
We'd recommend getting your grocery shopping done in Sonora on the drive up :1291 Sanguinetti Rd, Sonora, CA 95370. If you forget anything you can try shopping at the General Store in Pinecrest or the General Store in Strawberry, both are great for last minute items or ice creams after a day on the lake.