Lake Hillier
Western Australia
Lake Hillier is a remarkable saline lake located on Middle Island, the largest island in the Recherche Archipelago off Western Australia's southern coast. Measuring approximately 600 meters in length and 250 meters in width, it is renowned for its vivid pink coloration, which remains even when the water is contained. This distinctive hue is attributed to the presence of microorganisms such as Dunaliella salina and red halophilic bacteria that produce red pigments in the salty environment. The lake is surrounded by sand rims and dense paperbark and eucalyptus woodland, with a narrow strip of sand dunes separating it from the northern coast of Middle Island. Despite its high salinity, comparable to the Dead Sea, Lake Hillier is safe for swimming. The lake's unique ecosystem has been studied extensively, revealing a diverse microbiome adapted to extreme conditions. Access to Lake Hillier is limited, with aerial tours from Esperance Airport and occasional cruises offering the best views of this natural wonder. The lake is protected within the Recherche Archipelago Nature Reserve and is recognized as a wetland of subregional significance.
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Tip: The best way to experience Lake Hillier is via scenic flights departing from Esperance Airport, which offer spectacular aerial views of the vibrant pink lake and surrounding landscapes. Cruises provide another option for viewing, though direct access to the lake is restricted. Visiting during drier periods may enhance the lake's vivid coloration, as heavy rainfall can temporarily dilute the salt concentration and fade the pink hue. Booking tours in advance is recommended due to limited access and popularity.
Interesting facts
- •The pink color of Lake Hillier is permanent and does not fade when the water is taken out of the lake.
- •The coloration is caused by the presence of Dunaliella salina algae and red halophilic bacteria producing red pigments.
- •Lake Hillier's salt concentration is comparable to that of the Dead Sea, yet it is safe to swim in.
- •The lake was visited and documented by the Matthew Flinders expedition in 1802, one of the earliest European records.
- •Salt mining was attempted in the late 1800s but was unsuccessful due to the salt's toxicity.
History
Lake Hillier was first recorded by European explorers during the Matthew Flinders expedition in January 1802, with Flinders noting its distinctive rose-colored water.
The lake was named after William Hillier, a crew member who died during the expedition.
In the late 19th century, Edward Andrews attempted commercial salt mining on Middle Island, but the enterprise was short-lived due to the salt's toxicity for consumption.
Over time, Lake Hillier has remained a natural curiosity and scientific interest, now protected within a nature reserve.
