Unveiling the Fascinating Secret of the Pink Lake in Australia

If you have heard about a pink lake in Australia, you probably want to see it in person. Good thing Melbourne has its own bubblegum-colored lake. There are some phenomena that make it pink. Want to know its secret? Include this natural wonder in your list of places to visit in Melbourne.

Where is the Pink Lake in Melbourne?

Australia is home to more than 10 pink lakes, with one of them located in Melbourne. The seasonal pink-shade lake in Melbourne is situated in Westgate Park near the Westgate Bridge’s eastern end.

Built-in 1980, Westgate Park is a pleasant oasis in the midst of the industry and suburbs of Melbourne city. The lake here made headlines worldwide as its color changed to vibrant pink in January 2012, and now it does so every summer.

Due to its convenient location, accessible to millions of visitors, this natural wonder has quickly become one of Australia’s most popular natural pink lakes. Moreover, this place offers a magnificent backdrop for free for locals and travelers. 

What Makes the Pink Lake Pink?

So, why is the pink lake in Melbourne pink? According to Parks Victoria, the pink candy-colored lake in Westgate Park results from extremely high concentrations of salt, sunlight, high temperatures, and drought.

The natural interaction of Dunaliella salina (a single-celled, harmless alga) and Halobacteria cutirubrum (a harmless halobacterium) are responsible for the lake’s bubblegum color. These are the same algae that grow well in the Dead Sea and ones that turn flamingos’ feathers pink. Yes, flamingos are not born pink.

The lake color naturally becomes more vibrant as water evaporates and salt content increases during scorching summer. The lake will then return to its normal color when much cooler weather comes.

Things to Do in Pink Lake, Melbourne

Pink lake in Australia, precisely in Melbourne’s Westgate Park, will only turn pink under high temperatures. Other than appreciating this lovely-shade natural wonder, you can still do other things in Westgate Park. 

You can have a nature walk on the park’s trails, which is actually the start of a trail network from Melbourne to Frankston.

While strolling around the park, you will be able to see multiple wetlands. These are sanctuaries to a wide variety of birds, including ibis, spoonbills, ducks, swans, and many others. You can also bring your furry friend for nature walks on the trails. However, you must ensure your canine doesn’t wander around the bird life.

Another fun thing to do in this pink lake is sculpture hunting. This park is home to a number of sculptures artistically made by Lyn Moore. What makes them unique is that they are made of natural materials so that they can fit in with the surrounding environment.

You can also have a picnic or small BBQ party with your family or friends. No need to bring any collapsible shade because the park’s surrounding area provides ample shaded spots and benches for people to enjoy pleasant recreation.

You may wonder whether you can swim in the lake. Although there is no evidence the bacterium is harmful, and it’s technically possible to come in contact with the water, Parks Victoria advises visitors not to do so. It’s because of the high salt content and to protect the lake’s natural ecosystem.

When to Visit the Pink Lake in Melbourne

If you plan a summer trip to Melbourne, it’s worth a visit to see this pink lake in person. Nothing can ever prepare you for the amazement you will experience the moment you realize the pink water before you are totally natural.

As previously mentioned, the lake will only turn pink under high temperatures. So, you will need to come here during the summer months, or else you won’t be able to see its otherworldly color. You may still be able to see it in early fall or late spring when the weather is reasonably still warm.

Related: Everything You Need to Know about Seasons in Australia

Wrapping Up

So, is pink lake worth visiting? The pink lake in Australia, precisely in Melbourne, is one of the few in this world that is so special not to be included on your bucket list. Besides, this natural wonder is only a few-minute drive to other popular destinations in the city, like Melbourne Zoo, Brighton Beach, and Crown Casino. Read here to know more!