The Abandoned Salton Sea In Southern California Was Contaminated And Left Crumbling In The Desert
Will Suphan
Author
Many areas in Southern California once thrived as resorts, communities, and vacation destinations, bringing tourists in droves before eventually becoming decayed and abandoned. In the 1950s and ’60s, the Salton Sea was one such place: rich agricultural farmland, wildlife refuge, and resort destination that drew acts like Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and the Beach Boys. Wealthy citizens held yacht parties while golfers and sport fishermen dove into their hobbies. Birdwatchers flocked here to see many migratory species of birds.
If you happened to see this place in the late 1970s, however, you would recall the sight of dead fish all over the shore and an unwelcome smell from the whole place. The only fish that are left alive today are desert pupfish and a unique population of tilapia. However, they are not safe to eat, and swimming here is to be avoided. It is amazing how something so simple and essential to life, such as salt, can also be the undoing of life.
Editor’s Note: Due to the nature of abandoned destinations, many of the places featured in this series are off-limits to visitors or have actually been demolished. We do not condone trespassing and other illegal activity but rather encourage readers to enjoy learning about these fascinating destinations.
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Learn about the formation of the Salton Sea:
OnlyInYourState’s Vacant highlights fascinating abandoned places across America — from a vast ghost town with a tragic history and a renaissance festival left forgotten to the largest abandoned industrial facility in the entire world. Explore all 11 destinations here. Special thanks to Cleveland-based photographer Johnny Joo of Odd World Studio for the photos used in this article. For more images, you can check out his website, Architectural Afterlife.
The Salton Sea is now mostly home to radical artistry and creativity by people who take the remains of the past and make it a living museum of human ingenuity, subversive art, and sheer silliness. Much inspiration seems to be shared with events like Burning Man and Wasteland Weekend. If you like what you see here, then you’ve got to take a road trip to see nearby Slab City.
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Intriguing Destinations in Southern California
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Must-see destinations in Southern California include:
- El Dorado Nature Center. This verdant nature center has several gorgeous trails ranging from one to three miles in length.
- The Victoria Beach Pirate Tower. This medieval-looking tower is nestled against the cliffs where the waves crash into it creating a wondrous sight.
- La Jolla Tidepools. La Jolla Cove has stunning cliffs and ocean views as well as tide pools filled with tiny marine life.
- Idyllwild. This charming and picturesque small town is a refreshing and beautiful day trip with quaint shops, mountain views, and delicious restaurants.
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What are the best bucket list destinations in Southern California?
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- Death Valley National Park. Be sure to bring lots of water and shade because this area is as hot and dry as it is awe-inspiring.
- Pelican Cove at Rancho Palos Verdes. Locals love to come here to hike, paint, and take in the gorgeous clifftop ocean views.
- Joshua Tree. This area’s namesake trees are an otherworldly wonder to behold and you won’t find a better sunset.
- Palisades Park in Santa Monica. If you’re looking for the quintessential Southern California style and vibe, this park has it, with palm trees and lovely ocean views.
Find out more about the best bucket list destinations in Southern California.
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- The Living Zoo and Gardens. Located in the Palm Desert, this wondrous place allows you to feed majestic giraffes by hand.
- Torrey Pines State Reserve. Southern California’s natural beauty is on full display here, with cliffside trails overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
- Prospect Park. The Redlands area is home to this peaceful park that is filled with lush trees, wildlife, and nature trails.
Discover more about the most underrated attractions in Southern California.