Bombay Beach, a community on the east shore of the Salton Sea, is the lowest community in America (223 feet below sea level). The part of the community closest to the Salton Sea has been totally reclaimed by nature and lies in ruins (a berm protects most of the houses from the fluctuating water level)—super interesting, if you’re into weird places.

Also, the shoreline at Bombay Beach is a really great place to see sunset. When we were there, the sea was absolutely, incredibly flat—a perfect mirror reflecting the dark blue sky and reds of the sunset. It’s a bit stinky, the sand is littered with dead fish and birds, and the sand flies and mosquitos will get you if you attract them (I do)… but it was totally worth the visit!

See all of the pictures from our trip.