35 Stunning Abandoned Places Around the World You Can Still Visit

9. The Salton Sea, California: The Accidental Sea

The Salton Sea is an accidental body of water in the California desert, created by a breach in an irrigation canal in the early 20th century. Once a popular resort destination, the area was abandoned as the sea became increasingly polluted and saline. Today, the Salton Sea is a haunting landscape of decaying buildings and desolate beaches, attracting visitors intrigued by its unique history and environmental challenges. The sea’s story is a cautionary tale of human intervention in nature and the unintended consequences of development. Efforts to restore the area highlight the complex relationship between humans and the environment, inviting reflection on the balance between progress and preservation.