Blast From The Past – Bombay Beach, CA
- Larry J Haubner
- March 3, 2023
- 1:13 am
Bombay Beach is a small town located on the eastern shore of the Salton Sea in Imperial County, California. The town has a long and interesting history, which includes both periods of prosperity and decline.
In the early 1900s, the Salton Sea was formed by a series of floods that caused the Colorado River to overflow its banks and create an enormous inland lake. The lake quickly became a popular destination for fishing, boating, and recreation, and several towns were established along its shores, including Bombay Beach.
During the 1950s and 60s, Bombay Beach was a thriving resort town, with thousands of visitors coming to enjoy the lake’s recreational opportunities. The town had several hotels, restaurants, and businesses, and was known for its lively nightlife and entertainment.
However, by the 1970s, the Salton Sea began to experience environmental problems, including pollution and declining water levels. As a result, many of the businesses in Bombay Beach closed, and the town’s population declined.
Despite these challenges, Bombay Beach has continued to attract visitors and residents who are drawn to its unique culture and offbeat charm. In recent years, the town has become known for its outdoor art installations, including the iconic “Salvation Mountain” created by artist Leonard Knight.
Today, Bombay Beach is a small but vibrant community that includes artists, retirees, and people who are drawn to the town’s eclectic and welcoming spirit. Although it has faced its share of challenges, the town remains a fascinating and intriguing destination for visitors who are interested in exploring the history and culture of the Salton Sea region
The Ski Inn was established in 1959 and has been a popular spot for locals and visitors to the area for over 60 years. It has a unique and colorful history, having survived several natural disasters, including floods and earthquakes.
The bar has also been a popular location for filmmakers and photographers, as it provided a gritty, post-apocalyptic backdrop that has been featured in movies, music videos and art installations.
Despite it small size and remote location, the Ski Inn has managed to maintain a loyal following over the years, and has become something of a cultural icon in the Southern California desert region.
