Small Lake with Swimming Dock

Salton Sea Vacation Rentals

Salton Sea

Show on map
Salton Sea
Show on map

Why Rent On Salton Sea

California’s largest lake by surface area, the Salton Sea is a hauntingly beautiful saline lake in the Imperial Valley. Formed accidentally in 1905 by a Colorado River flood, it became a mid-century resort boomtown before ecological challenges shifted its fate. Today, it draws photographers, birders, and explorers. The Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge hosts massive flocks of migratory birds, while the stark shoreline offers an otherworldly setting for landscape photography. While swimming is discouraged due to salinity and algae, the lake’s eerie allure and cultural legacy—from abandoned resorts to outsider art installations like Salvation Mountain—remain captivating.

Best time to go
Visit the Salton Sea from late fall to early spring, when temperate days give way to breathtaking sunsets over tranquil waters. Experience the annual Salton Sea Bird Festival in February, a delight for nature lovers, as migratory birds paint the sky. Enjoy serene fishing excursions and delightful water sports, all while savoring the peaceful atmosphere unhindered by summer crowds.
Water Quality
The Salton Sea's water exhibits a deep blue hue, with areas reflecting a milky turquoise shade due to high salinity and mineral content. The water clarity is murky, often appearing cloudy or opaque, influenced by agricultural runoff and increasing salinity.
Surface area (mi)
600.24
Max depth (ft)
52.49
Elevation (ft)
282.15
Shoreline length (mi)
110

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Jet Skiing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
pencil

Information not accurate?

Help us improve by making a suggestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Salton Sea has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, it is not safe to swim in the Salton Sea. The water is nearly twice as salty as the ocean and laden with agricultural runoff, nutrients, and pollutants, which can cause harmful algal blooms and release noxious gases like hydrogen sulfide. This makes the water unhealthy for human contact.

  • Salton Sea is a popular destination despite its current challenges because it is a critical resource for many species of resident and migratory birds. It also has a rich history of attracting tourists with its unique water sports, such as speedboat racing and water skiing, and was once a favorite spot for Hollywood celebrities.

  • The current fishing regulations and restrictions for the Salton Sea in California are not specifically outlined in the provided sources, but general freshwater sport fishing regulations apply. For example, on July 5th and August 30th, 2025, no license is required for sport fishing, but all other regulations and report cards are still necessary.

  • The water at the Salton Sea is not safe for swimming. It is very salty, even saltier than the ocean, and contaminated with pollutants from nearby farms and cities, which can be harmful to health. Strong currents and poor water quality also pose significant risks.

  • Towns near the Salton Sea include Salton City, Bombay Beach, and Niland. These towns are located along the shoreline of the Salton Sea in the Imperial Valley of southeast California. Nearby cities like Coachella, La Quinta, and Indio are also within a short drive.