Ski Inn: A Quirky Oasis in the CA Desert

Author's note: this article is compiled from personal experience and various sources. All attributions are linked within.

Ski Inn, Niland CaliforniaPhoto byTracy Carbone

If you’ve ever been to Niland, California, a small town about 80 miles southeast each of Palm Springs and 8 miles from Coachella, you know there isn’t much around outside of the Salton Sea and Bombay Beach. There are some camping sites, and the charming Fountain of Youth Spa Resort a stone’s throw. But if you’re hungry, you mostly rely on what food you bring with you unless you want a long drive to a store or restaurant. If you’re going to the Coachella festival, keep reading.

Today I had the pleasure of eating at a fun place, a true hidden gem, a little oasis smack in the middle of Bombay Beach. The Ski Inn has good food and a tremendous amount of charm. Just past the restaurant are small streets filled with derelict structures, some of them enhanced with cool art, others as neglected as the Salton Sea they abut. There are some formal residences and rentals around but mostly…it’s pretty desolate.

Bombay Beach painted housePhoto byTracy Carbone

Bombay Beach, CaliforniaPhoto byTracy Carbone

Because of the location, the Ski Inn is literally THE place to go. The best one at least, based on my experience and lots of reviews.

I’m a big fan of quirky places and this restaurant checks all the boxes. When you enter, the first thing you’ll notice is thousands of one dollar bills scotch taped to…everything. My parents live in the area and frequent this place so a quick hello by my dad got the chef starting his usual grilled cheese and bacon sandwich. Locals greet each other with waves and hugs. Out of towners (you can tell the difference) are welcomed with big smiles.

Bar area of the Ski Inn, Niland CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

It was my first time so I took a tour around the place. Past the bar there’s a spacious dining area, replete with a juke box and lots of interesting art. Beyond that a pool table room. Open the back door and you find yourself in a vast outside area with more cool decor and a big stage, for music and karaoke nights.

outside section with stage at Ski Inn, Niland CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

Back inside, dollar bills signed and colored by patrons cover every surface. The staff handed me a “kit” containing scotch tape and a bunch of markers. It wasn’t easy to find an open spot but I managed, and next time I won’t be a newbie.

Dollar bills on the walls of the Ski Inn, Niland CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

Breakfast offerings today were biscuits and gravy, eggs, sausage, bacon, and of course grilled cheese. Maybe some people don’t like grilled cheese for breakfast but my dad and I think alike and it was delicious. Bloody Marys were part of the Sunday brunch menu too.

pool table room of the Ski Inn, Niland CA. Lots of signed dollar bills here tooPhoto byTracy Carbone

If you’re in the area, or even if you’re not, stop by for a meal. And then make sure to tour the beach. It’s sad but beautiful in its own way, and the outdoor artwork there and on the surrounding streets aren’t something you’re likely to see anywhere else.

Bombay Beach, Niland CAPhoto byTracy Carbone