Bombay Beach Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, what to buy, local customs and culture, safety and health, and transportation options for Bombay Beach, California.


Introduction to Bombay Beach

Bombay Beach is a small town situated in Imperial County in the middle of California’s Colorado Desert. Despite being just three miles long and a half-mile wide, the town is full of cultural attractions, natural wonders, and outdoor adventures that attract thousands of visitors. Bombay Beach is also home to one of the largest and oldest man-made saltwater lakes in the world, the Salton Sea.

List of Places to Visit in Bombay Beach

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Plan a visit to some of the most fascinating cultural attractions in and around the town. From historical sites to art museums, here are some of the must-visit cultural hotspots in Bombay Beach:

  • Bombay Beach Ruins
  • Salton Sea History Museum
  • International Banana Museum
  • East Jesus Sculpture Garden
  • Salvation Mountain
  • Oasis Date Gardens

Natural Attractions of Bombay Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Surrounded by the Salton Sea, Bombay Beach is famous for its scenic views and outdoor activities. Here are some of the natural wonders and outdoor adventures to explore in Bombay Beach:

  • Hiking and biking trails
  • Beach camping
  • Salton Sea State Recreation Area
  • Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge
  • Joshua Tree National Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bombay Beach

Exploring the hiking and biking routes is one of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Bombay Beach. Here are some of the popular hiking and biking trails in and around the town:

  • Salvation Mountain Trail
  • Painted Canyon Trail
  • Ladder Canyon Trail
  • Mecca Hills Trailhead
  • Joshua Tree National Park

Best Things to Do in Bombay Beach: Activities and Tours

Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure or cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in Bombay Beach. Here are some of the must-do activities and tours in the town:

  • Visit the Bombay Beach Ruins
  • Explore the East Jesus Sculpture Garden
  • Experience the surreal artwork at Salvation Mountain
  • Take a boat tour to explore the Salton Sea
  • Go kayaking or paddleboarding on the Salton Sea
  • Attend art and music festivals

Week-Long Itinerary for Bombay Beach

Day 1: Visit Salton Sea History Museum and Oasis Date Gardens Day 2: Explore the East Jesus Sculpture Garden and the nearby Slab City Day 3: Experience the surreal artwork at Salvation Mountain and the giant fresco that is “The Last Supper.” Day 4: Take a boat tour of Salton Sea to explore the wildlife and natural habitat Day 5: Go hiking in the Joshua Tree National Park Day 6: Visit the International Banana Museum and enjoy the banana-themed treats Day 7: Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach

Food and Drink Scene of Bombay Beach

Must-Try Dishes

Bombay Beach is known for its culinary artistry and attracts foodies from all over the world. Here are some of the must-try dishes that you can taste in the town:

  • Date Shake from Oasis Date Gardens
  • Fried Chicken and Waffle from Ski Inn Cafe
  • Fish Tacos from Tacos La Bufadora
  • Classic American Breakfast from Western Sands Motel
  • Date Shakes and Smoothies from Kelvin’s Deli

Local Beverages

Discover the unique taste of local beverages and quench your thirst with refreshing drinks. Here are some of the must-try local beverages:

  • Salton Sea Ale from area breweries
  • Date Shakes and Smoothies
  • Lemonade stand

Where to Stay in Bombay Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly accommodations, Bombay Beach offers a diverse range of options to fit every traveler’s preference. Here are some of the top places to stay in Bombay Beach:

  • Western Sands Motel
  • Hotel California
  • Bombay Beach Inn
  • Wisteria Lane Lodging

What to Buy in Bombay Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Do not leave Bombay Beach without picking up some souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the best places to shop in Bombay Beach:

  • The Range Thrift Store
  • Slab City Marketplace
  • Kelvin’s Deli

Local Culture and Customs of Bombay Beach

Even though Bombay Beach is a small town; it is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions. Visitors are welcomed in the town and are expected to respect the locals and their customs.

Best Time to Visit Bombay Beach

The best time to visit Bombay Beach is between October and May when the weather is cooler and the humidity is lower. In summers, temperatures can rise up to 120°F, making outdoor activities challenging.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bombay Beach

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their customs
  • Bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for protection from the sun
  • Stay hydrated
  • Carry cash as most places do not accept cards

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Go off-trail while hiking or biking
  • Enter private property without permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Bombay Beach

Bombay Beach is a safe town to explore. As with any town, it is essential to retain caution, especially when exploring the outdoors.

Health in Bombay Beach

When visiting Bombay Beach, carry medications that you need. There are a few pharmacies in the town. In case of a medical emergency, head to the nearest hospital.

Getting to Bombay Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bombay Beach is a small town in the middle of California’s Colorado Desert. Here are the transportation options to reach the town:

Airports Near Bombay Beach

  • Palm Springs International Airport (64 miles)
  • Ontario International Airport (119 miles)
  • Los Angeles International Airport (176 miles)

Bus Stations Near Bombay Beach

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Brawley (22 miles)
  • El Centro Bus Station (28 miles)

Other Options

  • Car rentals

How to Get Around in Bombay Beach

The best way to get around in Bombay Beach is by car. This will allow you to explore the town more conveniently.

Where to Go Next from Bombay Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

From exploring nearby national parks to visiting cultural hotspots, there are several nearby destinations worth exploring after your visit to Bombay Beach. Here are some of them:

  • Joshua Tree National Park
  • Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
  • Palomar Mountain State Park
  • Coachella Valley
  • Palm Springs

Conclusion

Bombay Beach is a small town with diverse attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. By exploring this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your ultimate vacation to this surreal destination.