Lake Hillier, a naturally pink lake on Middle Island, Western Australia, owes its colour to salt-loving algae and bacteria. Accessible via Perth and Esperance, visitors must take scenic flights or boat tours. Best visited in Australian summer, it offers unique wildlife and landscapes
Picture this: a lake the colour of bubblegum, sitting on a remote island off Australia's southern coast. It is not a digital filter or a clever edit. Lake Hillier in Western Australia really is pink, and it has fascinated travellers and scientists alike for decades. Surrounded by deep green forests on one side and turquoise seas on the other, it looks almost like someone painted it in the middle of nature's palette. But why does it stay pink all year round, and how can you actually see it for yourself? Here is the story behind Lake Hillier and how to plan a trip to witness it.
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Why Is Lake Hillier Pink? | The Science Behind The Colour
Photo: australia.com
So why is this lake pink and not the usual shades of blue or green? The answer lies in some very unusual biology. The water is home to microscopic algae called Dunaliella salina, which thrive in salty environments and produce red pigments. Add to that salt-loving bacteria, and you get a lake that looks like it has been dipped in strawberry milkshake.
What makes Lake Hillier especially striking is that the water itself is genuinely pink. If you scoop some into a bottle, it stays the same shade. Scientists continue to study how exactly these organisms interact, but one thing is clear: Lake Hillier is one of the most unique natural phenomena on Earth.
And while the science is intriguing, travellers are often more interested in how they can see it for themselves.
Lake Hillier is located on Middle Island in the Recherche Archipelago, near the town of Esperance. There are no direct flights from India to Esperance, but here is the route most travellers follow:
Step 1: Fly to Perth – Direct connections from India are not available, but one-stop flights to Perth can be booked from Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru via hubs like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Bangkok.
Photo: Unsplash
Step 2: Reach Esperance – From Perth, you can either take a short domestic flight (around 1.5 hours) or go for a road trip of roughly 8 hours. The latter is popular with travellers who want to see more of Western Australia's dramatic landscapes.
Step 3: Choose Your Tour – Since Middle Island is protected, you cannot walk up to the lake. Instead, you can experience it via:
Scenic Flights: Aerial views show the pink lake surrounded by forest and turquoise ocean - this is the most popular choice.
Private Charters: A higher-priced option but offers flexibility.
Boat Cruises: While you cannot land on the island, cruises give you a unique angle from the water.
Australia Visa For Indians | What You Need To Know
Photo: hillierlake.com
Indian tourists need a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) to travel to Australia. This allows you to visit for leisure, cruises, or family trips. The process is fully online and usually requires proof of funds, travel plans, and basic documentation.
Stay duration: Up to 12 months
Cost: From AUD 200 (approx. Rs 11,741)
It is advisable to apply a few weeks in advance to avoid delays. Once your visa is sorted, the trip becomes far easier to plan.
AdvertisementBest Time For Indians To Visit Lake Hillier
The ideal time to visit is during the Australian summer, between December and February. For Indian travellers, this coincides with our winter holiday season — making it a great option for a New Year or Christmas getaway. During these months, the pink hue is at its brightest, and the surrounding landscapes are lush. Wildlife sightings, from kangaroos to unique birdlife, also add to the experience.
Things To Do Around Esperance
Photo: Unsplash
While Lake Hillier is the headline act, Esperance itself has plenty to keep travellers busy:
Lucky Bay: White sandy beaches where kangaroos casually hop around — something you will not see back home.
Cape Le Grand National Park: A natural gem with rugged coastlines and hiking trails.
Woody Island: Perfect for snorkelling, camping, and spotting wildlife, accessible by ferry.
This makes Esperance a worthwhile stop even beyond Lake Hillier.
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Travel Tips For Indian Travellers
Photo: Unsplash
Book Early: Tours to Lake Hillier sell out quickly. Booking online before flying from India is recommended.
Currency: Carry an international travel card loaded with AUD for convenience.
Packing: Australian summers are hot, but can turn windy. Light, breathable clothes with layers are best. Do not forget sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Food: While Esperance has cafés and restaurants, vegetarians and vegans may want to carry snacks or check menus beforehand, as options are more limited compared to Indian cities.
For Indians who have seen pink lakes at home, Lake Hillier is a next-level experience. Its year-round bubblegum colour, remote location, and contrast with turquoise seas make it feel almost otherworldly. Yes, it takes some planning - a long flight, a visa, and a side trip to Esperance — but few sights in the world compare to this. Standing above a permanently pink lake is not just a photo-op; it is a reminder of how playful and unexpected nature can be.
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