You’d never guess one of the nation’s most opulent casino resorts began as a bingo hall. Located in San Bernardino County, home to one of California’s best road trips with desert and mountain views, and Big Bear, one of the most filmed lakes in the world, is the extravagant Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. In 1986, the Yuhavaaviatam of San Manuel Nation invested in a high-stakes bingo hall in the city of Highland, approximately 60 miles east of downtown Los Angeles and 52 miles west of Palm Springs. The endeavor proved so successful that the San Manuel Nation expanded its operations to include a 100,000-square-foot casino with a card room and slot machines. The customers came in droves, but it never equalled the glamour of the luxury resort casinos of the Coachella Valley and Palm Springs.
That all changed in 2021, when a 17-story tower emerged where the old San Manuel once stood, and the name was changed to Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. San Bernardino County finally had its world-class resort rivaling Palm Springs and Vegas. Yaamava’ is no ordinary luxury resort, and it has the accolades to prove it. Voted “Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas” by USA Today, and named “Best Overall Casino Outside of Las Vegas” by Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards, as well as a AAA Five Diamond approval, Yaamava’ has it going on. What’s more, The Pines Modern Steakhouse, Yaamava’s premier dining destination, has received numerous recognitions, including USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Casino Restaurant” and has earned a AAA Four Diamond rating. What began as a humble Tribal casino now sets the standard in luxury hospitality.
A world of opulence awaits at Yaamava’
Yaamava’s grand, best-in-class casino resort spans 700,000 square feet with two floors of gaming space, including 7,000 slot machines, 150 table games, baccarat, four high-limit rooms, and a VIP concierge. Slip into style while gaming at The Enclave, where you can sip a delicious cocktail while you play your game of choice. Big spenders get the royal treatment at The Vault, a lounge that eludes Prohibition-era decadence with craft cocktails and rare spirits. High-limit slot and game rooms tempt those who play to win, while Lotus 8 Palace is a zen refuge away from the noise with soft music and soothing teas.
The casino is not the only game in town at Yaamava’. Step into sublime sophistication at any of the 432 guest rooms or suites, which feature premium comforts and amenities, with sweeping vistas of the San Bernardino Mountains. Standard rooms start at approximately $660 per night. Yaamava’ is no slouch when it comes to shopping, either. The signature boutique, 1891, is a treasure trove of designer fashion and accessories, while additional shopping options ensure you stay and return home in style…