Salton Sea

The Salton Sea is a shallow, saline, endorheicrift lake located directly on the San Andreas Fault, predominantly in California's Imperial and Coachella Valleys.With a salinity exceeding 5.0% w/v (saltier than seawater), many of the species of fish that lived in the sea have been killed by the combination of pollutants, salt levels, and algal blooms.Today this area has been reduced to a deserted spooky town with burnt abandoned settlements and Dead fish carcasses washed up in mass quantities on the beaches. The smell of the lake, combined with the stench of the decaying fish, also contributed to the decline of the tourist industry around the Salton Sea. The eerie existence of the surrounding is sure to give a spine chill. 👻

I think the Salton Sea still has a lot to offer... #beautiful #saltonsea

Bombay beach, Salton Sea
Bombay Beach used to be a thriving tourist trap in Southern California. Now it is a reminder of just how much pollution can impact the environment. There are interesting ruins of former buildings and attractions on this area. Worth a stop if you’re in this neck of the woods. #StateParks #SaltonSea #Disaster #EnvironmentalDisaster #BombayBeach

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Activities

Popular places to visit

Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area

Explore the great outdoors at Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area, a lovely green space in Borrego Springs. Discover the desert landscapes and top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

Cottonwood Springs

Visit a spring once used by American Indians and gold prospectors, watch stunning sunsets and spot abundant flora and fauna.

Santa Rosa Mountains

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Santa Rosa Mountains during your travels in Truckhaven. Wander the seaside or discover the area's mountain views.

International Banana Museum

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at International Banana Museum during your travels in Mecca. Wander the parks or discover the area's mountain views.

Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center

You can take time to visit Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center during your travels to Calipatria. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's desert landscape.

Salvation Mountain

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Salvation Mountain during your travels in Calipatria. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's volcano viewpoints.

Top Hotel Deals

La Casa Del Zorro Resort & Spa

3845 Yaqui Pass Rd Borrego Springs CA

Festival Campgrounds Rancho 51

83272 51st Ave Coachella CA

Signature Indio I-10 Coachella Valley

84096 Indio Springs Dr Indio CA

La Quinta Resort & Club, Curio Collection by Hilton

49499 Eisenhower Drive La Quinta CA

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.