What happened to the resorts around the Salton Sea?

Posted on Jul 06, 2026 / Travel

What happened to the resorts around the Salton Sea?

During the 1950s and 1960s, the Salton Sea was a popular vacation destination with marinas, hotels, and busy beaches. People came to boat, fish, water ski, and enjoy the warm weather. Over time, rising salt levels and declining water quality caused fish populations to collapse. As tourism dropped, many businesses closed and some lakeside communities lost residents. Today, abandoned buildings and old marinas remind visitors of the area's past popularity. Some towns still have residents, local businesses, and artists who continue to support the community. The region has become known for its unusual scenery, history, and photography rather than traditional beach vacations.



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