The Institute, Bombay Beach

The Bombay Beach Institute is a surreal desert retreat and Biennale landmark, with Zig Zag Plaza right across the street. This 3-bedroom home features art exhibits, lush gardens, an equipped kitchen, large outdoor dining area, and cool, air-conditioned interiors. Located just steps from the Salton Sea and surrounded by iconic installations. Note: Art includes nudity—not suitable for children or the easily offended.



Niland, CA, United States

6 guests

3 bedrooms

1 bathroom

Good to know

Welcome to The Bombay Beach Institute of Particle Physics, Metaphysics & International Relations. Yes, that’s the real name. No, we don’t expect you to understand it. But if you do, you’ll probably love it here. A cornerstone of the Bombay Beach Biennale and a sanctuary for the strange and sublime, the Institute is part art installation, part desert residence, and part fever dream. Here, the air buzzes with creative static, and every wall, corner, and object seems to be involved in some kind of silent but sensual argument about the nature of reality. The 3-bedroom house includes: A spacious primary room with a queen bed Two smaller bedrooms with full beds (ideal for couples, loners, or collaborative thinkers) A living area that feels like a Cold War lounge turned metaphysical observatory A full kitchen for culinary experiments (no guarantees on results) Air conditioning, because you’re still human after all Throughout the space, you’ll encounter curated art exhibits that change periodically, many of which contain nudity, surrealism, and philosophical obscenities. This is not a place for children, nor for those who require trigger warnings on their vacations. Outside, a private garden blooms with desert life and detritus — a lush oasis ringed with relics, sculptures, and soft spaces for smoking, dreaming, or arguing about time. Past guests have hosted readings, ritual dinners, sound baths, and the occasional international incident. Just blocks from the Salton Sea and surrounded by the weird and wonderful fabric of Bombay Beach — including Zig Zag Piazza, the Drive-In, and other legendary installations — the Institute offers not just a place to sleep, but a permission slip to lose your mind a little, and maybe come back with something better. Come prepared to be bewildered. Come with wine. Come with friends who ask big questions and laugh at strange times. The desert will do the rest.


What this place offers

Common

  • Air conditioning
  • Cleaning products
  • Cooking basics Pots and pans, oil, salt and pepper
  • Dishes and silverware
  • Essentials Towels, bed sheets, soap, toilet paper, and pillows
  • Hair dryer
  • Heating Central heating or a heater in the listing
  • Kitchen Space where guests can cook their own meals
  • Dedicated workspace
  • Wifi

Bathroom

  • Bathtub
  • Body soap
  • Conditioner
  • Hot Water
  • Shampoo
  • Shower gel

Bedroom and laundry

  • Bed linens
  • Extra pillows and blankets
  • Hangers
  • Clothing storage

Common

  • Air conditioning
  • Cleaning products
  • Cooking basics Pots and pans, oil, salt and pepper
  • Dishes and silverware
  • Essentials Towels, bed sheets, soap, toilet paper, and pillows
  • Hair dryer
  • Heating Central heating or a heater in the listing
  • Kitchen Space where guests can cook their own meals
  • Dedicated workspace
  • Wifi

Bathroom

  • Bathtub
  • Body soap
  • Conditioner
  • Hot Water
  • Shampoo
  • Shower gel

Bedroom and laundry

  • Bed linens
  • Extra pillows and blankets
  • Hangers
  • Clothing storage

Home safety

  • First aid kit
  • Smoke detector

Kitchen and dining

  • Baking sheet
  • Barbecue utensils
  • Coffee maker
  • Dining table
  • Freezer
  • Hot water kettle
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Stove
  • Toaster
  • Wine glasses

Location features

  • Beach access
  • Lake access
  • Private entrance Separate street or building entrance
  • Ski in/Ski out
  • Waterfront

Outdoors

  • BBQ grill
  • Garden or backyard
  • Outdoor seating
  • Patio or balcony

Parking and facilities

  • Free parking on premises
  • Single level home No stairs in home
  • Free street parking

Services

  • Long term stays allowed Allow stay for 28 days or more
  • Luggage dropoff allowed For guests' convenience when they have early arrival or late departure

Availability

Accessibility

Neighborhood

Guest access

Feel free to explore the entire property, including exhibits in each of the trailers.


Reviews

Noah
July 2025 · Airbnb
I’ve never stayed in a place like the institute before. I am so fascinated with the town of bombay beach and its art displays. The institute looked to be the best property in town and it did not disappoint. There are many friendly peacocks and their babies roaming and many art displays on the property to observe. Inside the house there is tasteful artwork decorating the walls. The AC works well, as well as the fridge and freezer so it was great to have in the summer. The locals made us feel so welcomed as soon as we arrived. We’d love to come back soon and meet more people in the cooler season.
Lori
January 2025 · Airbnb
First time in Bombay. Loved it. Place is great. Just as pictures suggest. Friendly town and fun spots to explore. Quiet and peaceful at night when we were there. We had a fun time.

Location

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Approximate location. Full address will be provided on booking.