Bombay Beach
I have been to many beaches in the US and abroad, but Bombay Beach on the Salton Sea is one of a kind. Visiting is great, even though I don’t ever plan on swimming here.
Decades ago, developers dreamed up a desert oasis on the Salton Sea. However, things did not turn out the way they had planned. The accidental sea was a toxic nightmare with no easy solution. Then in the mid 1970’s, the former swanky resort town that is located below sea level flooded.
The marina, commercial buildings and rows of houses were submerged. A high berm has been built in recent years to protect the town that remains, but the devastation of the floods are still evident today.
Houses remain buried, but you can see what remains of rooftops and walls poking out from the dirt. Creative folks have turned some of the debris into artistic expressions, and other artists have created new works of art on the beach. Each time I visit, there is something new to see.
Photo Gallery
Artistic Post-apocalyptic Wasteland
Population is declining, and there are now estimated to be just a couple hundred who have chosen to make this town home. It had been a couple of years, since my last trip to Bombay Beach.
The sea level is much lower than before, so there are a 100 yards or more of squishy silt between the old beach and the water. New art has been constructed on the beach and on the abandoned houses in town. It is fascinating to see beauty and art combined with man-made and natural destruction.
This should definitely be added to your itinerary, when you are visiting the Salton Sea, Slab City and Salvation Mountain. You can park along 6th Street or you can drive up onto the beach at Avenue E, if you have a high clearance vehicle.
Bombay Beach
California 92257
Check out my other travel articles, so you can get more travel inspiration. And, take advantage of these Palm Springs hotel deals, so you can save money to go on more adventures.