Australia is known for its unique natural wonders, and one of the most fascinating of them is its pink lakes. You might have seen them pop up on your Instagram feed or spotted one on a road trip. These bodies of water are like no other, with their striking shades of pink that range from cotton candy pastels to champagne hues. It’s almost as if an artist painted them.
Exploring these pink lakes is a unique experience that will leave you in awe of the natural world. From swimming in the pink waters to taking a leisurely stroll along the shores, there are endless ways to enjoy the beauty of these natural wonders. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the incredible wildlife that calls these lakes home, such as flamingos and other water birds.
Finding a pink lake is easier than you might think. Australia has the most pink lakes in the world, which isn’t common knowledge. We have six of them. So if you’re just as obsessed with Australia’s bubblegum pink lakes as we are, here’s everything you need to know about them and where to find them.
Why Are the Lakes Pink?
These lakes get their distinctive pink colour from a type of algae called Dunaliella salina, which produces a pigment that reacts to the lake’s high salt levels and sunlight exposure. The resulting hue ranges from soft champagne pink to vibrant bubblegum pink, depending on the time of day and weather conditions. It’s a delicate balance that only Mother Nature could create and continues to enchant visitors worldwide.
Where are the Pink Lakes In WA?
One of Australia’s most famous pink lakes is Lake Hillier, located on Middle Island in Western Australia. The bright bubblegum pink hue of the lake is a sight to behold and has puzzled scientists for decades. Theories suggest that the unique colour is due to the high salt content of the lake and the presence of a specific type of algae. Despite its intense salt levels, the lake is safe to swim in and is a popular destination for visitors worldwide. Its bright pink stands out against the island’s lush greenery and blue waters, creating a truly magical sight.
Another well-known pink lake in Western Australia is Hutt Lagoon. This vibrant pink lake changes colours throughout the day, caused by a combination of algae, salt, and sunlight, which creates a unique and mesmerizing sight. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore or a scenic drive to admire the beauty of the lake from different vantage points. It’s a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Where Are the Pink Lakes In SA?
South Australia is where you will find some of Australia’s most stunning pink lakes. The most famous is Lake Bumbunga, located in the Clare Valley region. The lake’s striking pink colour reacts to the region’s high salt levels and intense sunlight. Lake Bumbunga’s pink hue is particularly vivid, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Another beautiful pink lake in South Australia is Lake Eyre. The lake’s pink colour is more subtle than other pink lakes in Australia, but it’s still worth the trip. There’s also Lake Macdonnell, famous for its contrasting colours of pink, blue, and green found in the lake opposite. A dirt road between the middle of them is a favourite spot for photographers.
In the state’s outback region is Lake Hart, a stunning shallow pink salt lake well worth the drive. Despite the harsh and arid environment, Lake Hart is home to various wildlife, including lizards, snakes, and various bird species. It’s also a popular stargazing destination.
One of the best ways to view the pink lakes is to book a scenic flight, but visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the shores or go for a swim. So, if you’re planning a trip to South Australia, be sure to add a visit to one of these stunning pink lakes to your itinerary.
Where Are the Pink Lakes in VIC?
Yes, even Victoria has a pink lake. Hiding in the Murray-Sunset National Park, about a five-hour drive from Melbourne, these lakes change from brilliant pink to glistening white and tend to be at their most vibrant on cloudy days. You can often find mounds of salt abandoned on the edges, remnants of the old salt mining days. Follow Pioneer Drive and take in the best of the Pink Lakes, from Lake Crosbie to Lake Kenyon and Lake Becking.
Related: Five National Parks In WA That Need to Be Seen to Be Believed
Related: 7 Jaw-Dropping National Parks in South Australia You Won’t Believe Exist
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