If you’re looking for a mysterious trip through an endlessly interesting place, you should definitely make your way to Salton City in Southern California, a town that wasn’t completely finished. It’s a fascinating look into the construction of a town and the look of abandoned spaces on the West Coast. Located in Imperial County, California between Anza Borrego Desert State Park and Joshua Tree National Park, Salton City, California is a unique census-designated place.
Located in Imperial County, California between Anza Borrego Desert State Park and Joshua Tree National Park, this city is a unique census-designated place.
Despite never being finished, it's the largest Imperial County development on the Salton Sea coast.
The original plan when the city was first developed in the 1960s was for it to become a resort community on the Salton Sea. There were many businesses that set up shop in the town, including hotels and restaurants.
However, due to rising sea levels, high salinity, and pollution of the sea, the plans did not come through, and Salton City was mostly abandoned. Despite its major setbacks, Salton City has been rejuvenated in the last 20 years or so and is increasing its population. At the time of the 2000 census, the population was just 978. Today there are just over 5,600 residents living there, and the numbers are growing. It's wonderful that this waterside town has been rediscovered and is on its way to being revitalized.
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Salton City is nestled right next to the Salton Sea, so even though it is far east of the ocean, there is still a “beach” where you can go when the desert weather heats up during the day.
Some people did live in the town before it was abandoned. There were some beautiful lakeside homes and a yacht club that once hosted Frank Sinatra and the Beach Boys. Sadly, these stunning and historic landmarks have all been deserted.
If you’re in Salton City for more than just the day, you’ll love your stay at Motel By The Sea, the only motel in town! Motel By The Sea is well-appointed, spacious, and modern inside. With four distinct rooms, each with its own personality, you’ll have a memorable stay after your day of exploring Salton City.
Now is an interesting time to visit, while the city is on the cusp of redevelopment. You can still tour the old ghost towns like Salton City itself but also see how things are beginning to change. Now you'll be able to say you saw Salton City when it was abandoned, even after it's become a redone and popular place again.
It’s worth it to get up early the next morning- you won’t want to miss the absolutely gorgeous sunrise over the Salton Sea. Make sure you have your camera ready for this lovely sight. The peacefulness of the open desert will start your day off with a tranquil feeling that will stay with you.
It's easy to understand why the area was developed as a resort town. With the beautiful beach, to-do-for sunrises, and unique natural environment. Tragically, the pollution is still impacting areas of Salton City and points towards a larger environmental crisis.
Even though the town is much fuller than it used to be, you can still see evidence of its incomplete plans. The 2010 census indicates that over three-quarters of the lots that were originally planned for Salton City are undeveloped.
Salton City won't be able to get back to its full former glory until the pollution and toxic fumes and the damage from them are fully resolved. Until then, we can only imagine what the seaside city must have been like in its heyday.
Take a look at how Salton City was in the past compared to now:
Salton City, California has quite a challenging history, but it has an up-and-coming present that is undoubtedly leading to a happy future. Have you been to Salton City in SoCal before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! While you’re exploring, take a drive to see some of these other abandoned places in Southern California.
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More to Explore
Abandoned Places In Southern California
CC|February 07, 2023
What are some other abandoned places in Southern California?
Other abandoned places in Southern California include:
