Reasons we visited Hutt Lagoon in 2022, a pink lake in Port Gregory, Western Australia

During our first ever road trip with a rented autocamper, we embarked on our 15-day-long trip. One of our stops was at the surreal Pink Lake, also known as Hutt Lagoon, a place we were recommended on the way north of Perth. Although we had to drive a little off the fastest route to Exmouth, it was worth it to visit and experience the vivid pink hues of the Pink Lake.

We were on our way from The Pinnacles near Cervantes, and were heading north towards Kalbarri National Park but needed a place for the night. We thought to combine some sightseeing with a campsite in Port Gregory, and we found a nice spot. It turned out to be the coldest campsite we had for the 15 days roadtrip – it was so rainy and windy it shook the autocamper during the night! (Click here to learn about our do’s and don’t s from our first time experience renting an autocamper.)

What makes Hutt Lagoon pink?

The Pink Lake, or Hutt Lagoon, in Port Gregory is naturally coloured, and it is not due to a local pollution. Hutt Lagoon is also not a man-made creation; it’s a natural saltwater lake.

Its’ distinctive pink color is caused by the presence of microalgae known as Dunaliella salina, which produces carotenoids, including beta-carotene, giving the water its pinkish-red tint.

Located in close proximity to the naturally occurring Pink Lake, there exist small basins which serve as collection points for concentrated algae. This particular type of algae is highly valued for its application as a food coloring agent, as well as its usage in the production of cosmetics and dietary supplements. Remarkably, Hutt Lagoon functions as a microalgae cultivation facility, wherein it actively produces brine shrimp, an essential component in prawn aquaculture. Thus, it can be inferred that Hutt Lagoon serves as an integral site for both the algae and shrimp industries.

Maybe you have a product at home with the algae ingredients?

How pink is the Pink Lake?

The hue of the pink color varies with sunlight. On cloudy days, the lake will seem less vibrant. As soon as the sun shines, the vibrant pink is observed. Other factors influencing the color of pink is the concentration of algae.

The lake’s color can thus change throughout the day, with the most intense pinks often occurring during sunrise and sunset when the angle of the sun enhances the effect.

Did you know you can take a swim in the Pink Lake?

While it is safe to swim in the Pink Lake, you will perhaps be surprised by the properties of the water. The lake’s water is extremely salty due to its high salinity levels, which makes it a unique habitat for certain types of microorganisms, including the colorful Dunaliella salina algae.

While I wasn’t bold enough to swim in the water, my partner was and he went in! You can also google it if you don’t believe me! 🙂

What do you think about the Pink Lake aka Hutt Lagoon, will you add it to your itinerary?

-Traveling Female Ornithologist

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