Bombay Beach: A Fascinating Place Where Art Meets History

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On the eastern shore of the Salton Sea, is the mirage of an abandoned resort and a shrinking lake. Discover the uncommon story of the Salton Sea and Bombay Beach.

An Unexpected Sea

The rebellious Colorado River has flooded multiple times in southern California in the last 2,000 years. It created, filled up, and dried up a large lake: lake Cahuilla. According to the flooding, the lake stretched from Palm Springs to Mexico. In 1905, a dike breached creating accidentally the Salton Sea.

Did you know?
The Salton Sea is the largest lake in California (376 square miles, or 970 km2).

The Salton Riviera

Communities emerged around the Salton Sea. This gateway destination was popular for fishing and water sports. In 1929, R.E. Gilligan created Bombay Beach. The city grew exponentially from the 50s to the late 70s.

During its heyday, it included two marinas, multiple shops, four bars, a motel, and a church. This relaxing place attracted tourists and celebrities like the Beach Boys and Frank Sinatra.

Did you know?
Bombay Beach is 223 feet (68 m) below sea level. It’s the lowest-elevation city in North America.

The Ecological Disaster

In 1984, salinity from ancient deposits and agricultural pollution intensified. As there is no outflow, algal blooms and killed marine life. Dead fishes paved the shore, and other animals, like birds, died too. More than 95% of marine life has been destroyed. The toxic water combined with dead animals spread a fetid smell.

Tourism declined, and locals moved to different places. Bombay Beach became a ghost city.

The Rebirth

In recent years, this post-apocalypse postcard attracted movies/documentaries/music video makers, artists, photographs, and tourists.

The population is growing and reached less than 300 inhabitants.

Since 2015, the city hosts The Bombay Beach Biennale, an art event by and for local artists. The playground is vast, and some temporary art installations remained. Stroll the streets to see ruins from the past alongside contemporary art.