THE PINK LAKE - HUTT LAGOON
Hutt Lagoon, more commonly know as the Pink Lake, was give its official name by explorer George Grey who camped on its edge in 1839. The pink hue is due to the presence of a carotenoid-producing algae, Dunaliella salina, a source of beta carotene.
The edges of the lagoon often appear white and crystalized due to its high salt content. The best time of year to view this amazing lake is after the winter rains have filled up the water levels.
Within the lagoon lies a gridded lake system where BASF sustainably harvests natural beta-carotene. You’ll find the end product in food , beverages, health supplements and baby formula used for its health benefits as a source of Vitamin A and also as a natural food colouring agent.
The lagoon contains the worlds largest microalgae production plant.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHERE IS THE PINK LAKE?
The Pink Lake is 60km south, a 45 minute drive from Kalbarri next to the township of Port Gregory. All roads are sealed to the Pink Lake. You can self-drive or visit the lake with a local tour operator.
WHERE IS IT BEST TO VIEW THE PINK LAKE?
On the Port Gregory side, from Kalbarri travel down George Grey Drive (60km), turn right onto Port Gregory Road (drive just 5kms) - there is a dedicated carpark area that is the official Pink Lake Lookout (unsealed).
Please pull over safely on the side of the road when viewing the lake and be careful when pulling back onto the road.
IS THE LAKE PINK?
Yes. It contains the algae Dunaliealla salina which produces high amounts of caroteniods, pigments that give the water its striking pink hues. The lake can shift between shades of pink, red and even purple depending on the weather conditions.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF DAY TO VIEW THE LAKE?
The lake is best viewed when the sun is high above it to highlight the spectrum of colour. Generally, between 10am and 2pm, where there is limited cloud cover, year round.