01
Best overall pick
Salton Sea State Recreation Area
North Shore Of The Salton Sea • Desert Lake Shoreline With Simple Beaches • Best Mix Of Access And Scenery
An easy, well-signed stretch of Salton Sea shoreline with basic beaches, campgrounds, and wide-open desert views.
This is the most visitor-friendly way to experience the Salton Sea from Westmorland, with parking, restrooms, and clearly defined shoreline access. Expect coarse sand and crushed-shell beaches rather than classic surf, along with big skies and migrating birds instead of swimmers and umbrellas. It’s a great choice when you want a quick, low-stress escape to the water without driving all the way to the coast.
02
Most atmospheric stop
Bombay Beach
East Shore Of The Salton Sea • Surreal Art-Filled Shoreline • Best For Photography And Sunsets
A small, offbeat waterfront community where decaying shoreline structures and outdoor art installations meet glassy Salton Sea sunsets.
Bombay Beach is less a swimming spot and more a one-of-a-kind desert-beach experience, mixing ghost-town vibes with quirky art. Walk the crunchy, salt-encrusted shore, check out the sculptures and murals, and stay for the golden-hour light on the water and nearby mountains. It’s an easy add-on to a Salton Sea drive when you want something memorable and distinctly local.
03
Quiet west-shore option
Salton City Beach
West Shore Of The Salton Sea • Laid-Back Local Shoreline • Best For Low-Key Exploring
A sparsely developed west-shore stretch with rough sand, lake views, and room to roam without crowds.
On the opposite side of the Salton Sea from Westmorland, Salton City Beach offers a more solitary feel, with open shoreline and distant mountain backdrops. It’s ideal if you like to park, wander the edge of the water, and watch birds or passing weather in peace. Bring everything you need—services are minimal, which is part of the appeal for those who prefer a raw, unpolished landscape.
04
Closest ocean escape
Imperial Beach
South San Diego County Coast • Classic Socal Surf Town Beach • Best For Surf And Pier Strolls
A relaxed Pacific beachfront with a long pier, surfable waves, and a low-key small-town feel at the edge of San Diego Bay.
When you’re ready for real ocean air and rolling surf, Imperial Beach is the closest straightforward seaside option from Westmorland. The wide sandy beach, pier, and casual taco spots make it easy to spend a full day here without feeling overwhelmed. Aim for a weekday or shoulder season visit if you prefer lighter crowds and easier parking.
05
Classic San Diego day trip
Coronado Central Beach
Coronado, Near Downtown San Diego • Wide, Polished Resort-Style Beach • Best For All-Day Ocean Lounging
A broad, postcard-perfect Pacific beach fronting historic Coronado, with gentle waves and plenty of room to spread out.
Coronado Central Beach rewards the longer drive from Westmorland with soft sand, lifeguards, and a more polished, resort-like setting. It works well for mixed groups, with gentle surf for casual swimming, tidepools at the north end on lower tides, and cafes and shops just a short walk away. Stay through the evening if you can—the sunset with the hotel and Point Loma in the distance is hard to beat.