The sea creates its own atmosphere and microclimate. It is 25 percent more saline than the ocean and the salinity is rising every year, making it ever more toxic to the millions of fish and birds that somehow still thrive here. A heavy mist lies over the water which is visible from miles away. This combined with the higher air pressure below sea level makes the air heavy and still, contrasting strongly with the dry desert wind which whips around the perimeter of the sea.

These are three thatched beach cabanas at Salton City Beach. Each contains a raised platform and a picnic table, all in near perfect condition. They have not seen any use in over 40 years. The smell of dead fish is overwhelming.