Just a couple of hours outside of Los Angeles lies Bombay Beach, a town with a unique history and a post-apocalyptic vibe. Once a thriving resort destination on the shores of the Salton Sea, it attracted beachgoers and celebrities alike in its heyday. However, rising salinity levels led to the sea drying up, devastating the local ecosystem and forcing residents and businesses to leave, leaving behind a surreal landscape that’s now attracting longboarders and skaters.
What remains today resembles a scene straight out of Mad Max, with abandoned buildings, quirky art installations, and a sense of freedom that’s hard to find elsewhere. With a small year-round population, Bombay Beach has become a haven for those seeking an alternative lifestyle. It was this unique environment that led us to seek out rumors of a DIY skate spot hidden within the town.
Driven by curiosity, we made the two-hour drive, eager to see what we could find. Upon arrival, we immediately noticed the town’s character, with various art pieces scattered across the sand. We soon connected with some of the locals, and were soon ready to film a few tricks on the newly found quarterpipe.
The Allure of DIY Skate Spots
The appeal of DIY skate spots lies in their organic nature. They’re not designed by city planners or corporate interests; they’re born out of the passion and creativity of skaters themselves. These spots often appear in unexpected places, and are built with whatever materials are available, giving them a raw, authentic character. The Bombay Beach quarterpipe is an example of this spirit, showcasing how skaters transform discarded materials into a place to practice their craft.
A view of Bombay Beach, with its abandoned buildings and unique landscape
The Bombay Beach Quarterpipe
The quarterpipe at Bombay Beach is a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of the local skate community. Built in a location that is both secluded and inspiring, it’s a unique place for skaters to push their limits. The smooth transitions and sturdy construction provide a safe and fun place to practice new tricks, while the surrounding environment adds to the overall experience.
A skater performing a trick on the quarterpipe in Bombay Beach
The journey to Bombay Beach isn’t just about the skating; it’s also about the people and the art that populate this unusual town. Meeting the locals and seeing how the community has embraced its unusual circumstances was a welcome bonus to finding the ramp.
Close up of the texture of the skate ramp
The Creative Minds Behind the Ramp
The Bombay Beach quarterpipe was not just built out of nowhere. It’s a result of collaboration and effort by several talented builders. The project was led by:
- Clayton Graul (https://www.instagram.com/clayton_graul)
- Gabe Solis (https://www.instagram.com/greatestbullfighter/)
- Tyler Hammond (https://www.instagram.com/notmychair)
- Daniel Vargas (https://www.instagram.com/daniel7argas/)
- Will Simons (https://www.instagram.com/weird.salmon?igsh=MWllNjQwOGwwNmR3Zg%3D%3D)
These individuals poured their time and expertise into creating this unique skate spot, adding another layer of creativity to an already interesting destination.
Conclusion
Our trip to Bombay Beach was a reminder that adventure can often be found in the most unexpected places. The remote quarterpipe was a fun find, but it was the unique people, the art, and the town’s bizarre history that really made the trip memorable. For longboarders and skaters looking for something different, Bombay Beach is definitely a destination worth checking out. It’s a place where creativity thrives, and the spirit of DIY is alive and well.
If you’re looking to explore unique skate spots and enjoy the thrill of the unknown, Bombay Beach might just be your next adventure. So, pack your board, gather your friends, and get ready for a skate experience like no other.
Filmed and edited by: Ian Ostrowski
Additional filming by: Ian Michna
Intro by: Ben Komins
