Otherworldly Wonders: Australia’s breаtһtаkіnɡ Pink Lakes

Australia’s Enchanting Pink Lakes: Nature’s Unique Masterpieces

Australia, known for its extraordinary wildlife and unparalleled natural beauty, captivates with not only the planet’s heaviest creatures but also its exceptional natural wonders. Brace yourself for a journey through the Great Barrier Reef, past the Dolerite Sea Cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula, and a witness to the majesty of the Twelve Apostles. Among these breathtaking sights, the mesmerizing pink lakes stand out as another exceptional wonder that will leave you in awe.

Unveiling Nature’s Palette: Hutt Lagoon’s Vibrant Pink Lake (Image Credit: nodeworx)

Contrary to the common association of lakes with shades of blue, the waters of over 10 lakes in Australia boast extraordinary hues that defy expectations. Fear not, for this stunning color transformation is purely a natural occurrence and not the consequence of any hazardous contamination.

The water of these saline lakes contains both Halobacteria and a type of algae known as Dunaliella salina. They produce a red pigment called carotenoid, also found in carrots, fruits, and other vegetables. During hot weather, the algae mix with the salt in the lakes, turning the water pink. Therefore, most pink lakes don’t maintain their pink color throughout the year and regularly change colors in accordance with temperature fluctuations.

When the water reaches a high salinity level, and the temperature is warm enough, the algae begins to accumulate carotene, turning the water pink. Image credits: nodeworx

Oddly enough, the lake near Esperance, Australia, called “Pink Lake,” has lost its pinkness and hasn’t been pink for many long years. Experts believe that a highway and rail line have cut off the natural flow of water into the salt lake system, reducing its salinity, which is why the lake doesn’t change its color to pink anymore. Locals have taken the initiative to rename the lake to its original name, avoiding any further misunderstandings.

The most famous of the pink lakes, however, Lake Hillier, maintains its bubblegum pink color all year round. Its water even retains its pinkish hue when put in a bottle.

The lake itself can be found on Middle Island in Western Australia, so approaching it is only possible by air or boat, and visitors are not allowed too close to the lake, which is necessary to protect Lake Hillier’s scenic environment.

Lake Hillier neighbors the blue waters of the Indian Ocean, with a barrier of paperbark and eucalyptus trees between the two. Image credits: Wiki Commons

In the Mid-west region of Western Australia lies Hutt Lagoon, also notorious for its pink-colored waters. Depending on the weather, Hutt Lagoon’s color can vary from lilac to bright pink. Since it’s located in a very dry area, the water is often very shallow or dried out completely, mostly filled with a 20 cm thick layer of salt. It is estimated that the lake fills up only twice every hundred years.

The view of Hutt Lagoon from space. Image credits: NASA

As mentioned before, Hutt Lagoon might dry out during the summer, but driving and walking over it isn’t a good idea because it’s very salty, soft, and can be quite slimy.

Hutt Lagoon is one of the most beloved attractions of its region. Image credits: StuRap

When conditions are right, pink lakes can appear in unexpected locations. A good example of this is the case of the lake of Melbourne’s Westgate Park.

This salty, man-made lake, hidden in Melbourne’s industrial part, first turned pink in December 2012 after a massive heatwave gripped Australia’s east coast. The traditionally blue lake has been turning pink between summer and autumn almost every year since.

The lake of Westgate Park has been turning pink every year since 2012. Image credits: Quick Shot Photos

The lake has become a popular tourist destination as it resembles Lake Hillier and Hutt Lagoon. Also, you don’t have to rent a boat or helicopter to approach the magical lake of Westgate Park.

As the weather becomes cooler, the lake turns back to its original bluish color. Image credits: Quick Shot Photos

Many people may wonder if it’s possible to swim in these inviting waters. In theory, it is entirely safe to swim in the pink lakes, although they are extremely salty and cause no harm to the human skin. However, it isn’t common for someone to swim in the lakes.

National parks and officials advise against swimming in them and ask people to leave the pink lakes and their surroundings as undisturbed as possible to protect these extraordinary natural spots for the next generations.