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South Australia is lucky to have not one but five pink salt lakes. They are pink due to high salinity levels, algae and halobacteria. The more concentrated the salt and the less water in the lake, the brighter the colour.
Lake MacDonnell, Eyre Peninsula
Lake MacDonnell, Eyre Peninsula
This lake has a particularly high salt concentration, producing bright hues of purple and pink. It is also located close to Cactus Beach, known for surfing. It is the site of a former salt mine and the largest gypsum mine in Australia.
It is approximately one and a half hours by plane from Adelaide to Ceduna and another 45 minutes by car. Alternatively, it is a 9 and a half hour drive.
Lake Eyre, Outback South Australia
Lake Eyre, Outback South Australia
Lake Eyre, officially known as Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, is one of the most famous of pink salt lakes in South Australia. It is about 15 meters below sea level, and on the rare occasion the lake fills up, it is the largest lake in Australia with about 9,500 squared kilometres. The lake turns to shades of pink and orange after a rainy day in summer.
Lake Bumbunga, Clare Valley
Lake Bumbunga, Clare Valley
This lake is approximately less than 2 hours to drive from Adelaide. It has been a site for salt extraction works since 1881. A weekend getaway to this region is recommended, to explore the wineries nearby, such as Jim Barry Wines, Mitchell Wines and Skillogalle Winery and Vineyard.
Be sure to check ahead of time the salinity levels due to changes in colour throughout the year.
Lake Albert, Fleurieu Peninsula
Lake Albert, Fleurieu Peninsula
Lake Albert is home to millions of micro-organisms that produce beta-carotene, turning the lake into a bubble gum colour. It is approximately a 2 hour drive from Adelaide and is close to Victor Harbor, Limestone Coast, Naracoorte Caves and the Coonawarra wine region.
Lake Hart, Outback South Australia
Lake Hart, Outback South Australia
Lake Hart is about a 5 hour drive from Adelaide and is one of the few salt lakes where you can actually walk across the lake. This lake contrasts the seemingly never ending red background of the outback.
Lake Hart is also a popular rest stop for those visiting Woomera.
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