Australia has a treasure trove of natural beauty that feels AI-generated in images. WA, in particular, has several hidden spots in its vastness that one can explore for a small getaway. If you drive about 5 hours and 30 minutes north from Perth, you will reach Hutt Lagoon, a picturesque pink lake nestled in Port Gregory.
The beauty of Hutt Lagoon is in the different shades it bears throughout the day. The best time to take in the blush-coloured waters is around noon, but you can catch its vivid colours any time you visit. Here’s all you need to know about this mesmerising WA pink lake.
Hutt Lagoon at Port Gregory
This bright-hued natural lake gets its colour from the carotenoid-producing algae Dunaliella salina present in its waters. Additionally, these algae, used in the manufacture of food colours, are a rich source of vitamin A (thanks to the β-carotene). Despite its fairy floss colour, the water is far from sweet. It is incredibly saline (and contaminated), so we don’t recommend tasting (or swimming!) in it. This makes sense, considering that the Indian Ocean feeds the lake’s area of almost 70 sq. km.
Once you’re done exploring Hutt Lagoon on foot (with sturdy shoes; the salt deposits can be super sharp) or boat, you can make your way to Port Gregory. The village served the Geraldine Mine, the first-ever in WA at the mouth of the Hutt River. Full of interesting historical landmarks, including the stone buildings of Lynton Convict Hiring Station (constructed in 1853), we suggest exploring this lovely area over a few days. You can even climb the hills behind Port Gregory for some stunning views if you’re up for it.
The transition between winter and spring is the perfect time to visit the lake to catch the glorious wildflowers sprouting in the area.
Getting there
It’s not much of a drive from Perth to Hutt Lagoon. However, driving non-stop for almost 6 hours can be tiring, so try to stay the night at Port Gregory. First, take State Route 60 from the Mitchell Freeway/ State Route 2. Here, meet National Route 1 and then Brand Highway.
It’s located about 45 minutes from Geraldton, between Port Gregory Road and George Grey Drive. For the best possible entry point, enter from the (unsealed) Pink Lake Lookout on Port Gregory Road. In fact, if you wish to see Hutt Lagoon from above, take a flight from Geraldton for a brilliant bird’s-eye view of the pink lake.
For more details about stays and things to do around the area, see Tourism WA.
