From strawberry milk rivers to crimson-coloured lagoons and peachy pools, there are dozens of pink lakes around the world that dazzle visitors with their surreal hues.
A testament to the incredible diversity of our planet, these pink-hued wonders will give you a new appreciation for Mother Nature’s talents! Best of all, pink lakes naturally occur all over the world – from the USA to Mexico, Spain and Namibia – so you’re bound to find a pink lake near you.
Here are 17 of the world’s most magnificent pink lakes with detailed information on how to visit them.
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But first: What makes a pink lake pink?
You might be asking yourself, “Why is the pink lake pink!?”
Most pink lakes are salt lakes, with a salt concentration that is much higher than seawater. This high salinity creates a harsh environment in which only a select few microorganisms can thrive, such as Dunaliella salina, a halophile micro-algae that produces carotenoids that are responsible for the pink colour.
Another theory suggests that halobacteria use a protein called bacteriorhodopsin to absorb sunlight and create energy, resulting in their rosy pigmentation.
Most pink lakes are safe to swim in – in fact, many boast curative properties thanks to the high mineral content of the waters.
Pink Lakes in the USA
Great Salt Lake, USA
The Great Salt Lake is the remnant of a much larger prehistoric lake that was once located in the heart of Utah, USA. Despite having shrunk in size, its proportions are still noteworthy: The Great Salt Lake is 75 miles long and 28 miles wide, making it the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere.
The Great Salt Lake is home to two areas where the water takes on a pink hue, one located at Stansbury Island and the other in the northern bay near the Spiral Jetty, where the railway causeway separates the lake into two distinctive blue and pink sections.
Getting there is easy, with Salt Lake City International Airport just 10 miles away. From there, visitors can hire a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to reach the lake.
If you want to see the pink waters of the Great Salt Lake in their most vibrant state, the best time to visit is between late summer to mid-fall, when the pink algae exhibit a greater abundance, especially at the Spiral Jetty area.
There are countless things to do at the Pink Lake in Utah. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, boating, swimming, and floating on the salty waters. The lake is also home to Antelope Island, which boasts stunning natural scenery, wildlife, a variety of recreational activities and the beautiful Bridger Bay Beach.
There are plenty of places to stay in the Great Salt Lake area, ranging from luxurious resorts to cosy cabins. Some popular options include Sundance resort, Compass Rose Lodge, and The Little America Hotel.
Great Salt Lake might be the only pink lake in the USA, but there are other mountain lakes that give a similar effect at certain times of year. For example, Bow Lake in the Canadian Rockies often takes on peachy hues around sunset. Check out this Banff summer guide for more tips.
Pink Lakes in Mexico & Latin America
Laguna Rosada, Mexico
Laguna Rosada is a hidden gem in the heart of Yucatán, Mexico. It’s a lesser-known pink lake in the area, making it a great crowd-free alternative to the more popular pink lakes such as Las Coloradas (next up on this list).
To get to Laguna Rosada Yucatan, you can fly into Cancun International Airport and drive approximately 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive from other major cities in Yucatán such as Cancún or Playa del Carmen.
The best time to visit the lake is between 10am and 2pm in the summer, when the water is clear and at its peak pinkness
There are many exciting things to do in Laguna Rosada, including kayaking, swimming, and fishing. You can also take a boat tour of the lagoon to explore its natural beauty and spot the many species of birds and wildlife.
This lake is used for mining gourmet pick rock salt, and there are a couple of smaller pools where you can see men at work mining the salt.
For a unique experience, take a dip in one of the nearby cenotes. Cenote Sambula is a natural swimming hole formed by the region’s unique geological features. You can also admire magnificent archaeological ruins located around the lake.
When it comes to accommodation, popular choices include TecnoHotel Beach, Hotel Reef Yucatán and Hacienda Kaan Ac. For food, many local restaurants serve traditional Yucatecan cuisine, including seafood dishes, ceviche, and tacos al pastor. Some of the best options in the area are La Picuda, La Palapa, and Villa del Mar.
Planning an island day trip from Playa del Carmen after you visit the pink lake? Check out these things to do in Cozumel.
Las Coloradas, Mexico
Another iconic pink lake in Mexico, Las Coloradas, also located in Yucatán, is a truly stunning destination that captures the essence of this natural phenomenon. With its pristine pink lagoons and flamingo wonderland, Las Coloradas is a must-visit for those looking to experience the wonders of Mother Nature.
The weather in Las Coloradas is typically warm and sunny all year round. It is best to avoid the rainy season, which typically runs from June to October, and if you want to see the lake when it’s most pink, summer is the best time to go.
While you’re in the area, explore the nearby Mayan ruins at Ek Balam, swim in the pink lagoons, or take a boat ride to see the flamingos. For those looking to relax, plenty of hammocks and lounge chairs are available to soak up the sun.
For accommodation, a few options are available in Las Coloradas including Hotel Villa de Pescadores, Yuum Ha Boutique Hotel, and the eco-lodges at Pina Coloradas.
Pink Lakes in the Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert is a place of unparalleled natural beauty and wonder. Among this off-the-beaten-track destination’s many treasures, the natural pink lakes are a true marvel.
These stunning lakes are located in the heart of the desert. Getting there is no small feat! Visitors must first make their way to the small town of San Pedro de Atacama, around 62 miles from the El Loa airport in Calama. From there, it’s a bumpy and winding journey deep into the desert, but the incredible scenery makes it all worthwhile.
Visitors can expect to be greeted with a surreal landscape of pink-coloured water surrounded by towering mountains and otherworldly rock formations.
The best time to visit the Pink Lakes is spring and summer, from October to March. The weather in the Atacama Desert can be unpredictable, with scorching hot temperatures during the day and cold nights. It’s essential to come prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen, and warm layers for the chilly evenings.
There are plenty of things to do in the Pink Lakes region, from hiking and mountain biking to stargazing and bird watching. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and towns to understand the local culture and history.
For those looking to stay in the area, various accommodation options are available, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels such as the Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa. Several restaurants also serve delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and hearty stews, with one of the most popular being La Picada Del Indio.
Laguna Colorada, Bolivia
Laguna Colorada, located in southwestern Bolivia, is a spellbinding natural wonder. This lake’s vibrant red colour contrasts with the snow-capped Andes Mountains and blue skies, creating a spectacularly vivid landscape.
Getting to Laguna Colorada is an adventure in itself. The closest airport is in Uyuni, a small town serving as the gateway to the Salt Flats. From there, visitors can hire a car or join a guided lake tour. The journey is around 5 hours.
The lake with pink water, located near the Chilean border, is 23 square miles and sits at an altitude of over 10,000 feet above sea level. With a maximum depth of just under five feet, it’s an ideal place to hang out and soak up the scenery. Plus, it’s a haven for the endangered James’ flamingos, so you might catch a glimpse of these beautiful birds while you’re there.
The best time to visit is during the Bolivian winter (May to October) when the weather is dry. However, those who want to see flamingos should come during the summer (December to February) as the lake is full of flamingos at this time. However, you must consider that this is also the rainy season.
There are several things to do in Laguna Colorada. Visitors can walk around the lake and admire the flamingos, vicuñas, and other wildlife that inhabit the area. You can also explore the nearby geysers and hot springs, or go on a trekking adventure in the Andes Mountains.
When it comes to accommodation, there are a couple of local hostels in the area such as Refugio Laguna Colorada and Refugio Huayllajara. Or you could try Lodge Andino Lamphaya, a 2-hour drive from the lake.
Visitors can also stay in Uyuni (approximately 190 miles away), where there are several hotels and hostels to choose from. Alternatively, you could cross the border into Chile and stay in San Pedro de Atacama, which is a 3-hour drive away. Popular options here are Casa Atacama and Awasi Atacama – Relais & Chateaux.
Due to its remote location, dining options are few and far between, so it’s best to take a packed lunch. However, it’s essential to remember that altitude can affect one’s appetite and digestion, so eating lightly and staying hydrated is advisable.
Pink Lake near Bahia de Las Calderas, Dominican Republic
This enchanting, naturally Pink Lake is close to Bahia de Las Calderas in the southwestern part of the Dominican Republic.
Getting there by car is relatively easy, since the lake is just a few miles from Las Salinas. If you are travelling from Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic, the journey takes approximately two hours.
The weather around the pink lake is sunny and warm almost year-round, making it an excellent destination for those seeking a tropical climate. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to June.
Take a dip in the lake’s waters, which are rich in minerals and believed to have therapeutic properties. Alternatively, you can explore the surrounding landscape by hiking or horseback riding. The area is also home to a diverse range of bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching.
Popular places to stay nearby include Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge, Sava Salinas and Platon Eco Lodge. For dining options, several local restaurants are serving fresh seafood and traditional Dominican dishes, a popular choice being D’Randy Y Rocio Paradita.
Pekelmeer, Bonaire
Pekelmeer, located on the beautiful Caribbean island of Bonaire, is a must-see natural salt lake that is a sanctuary for flamingos and a tranquil paradise for visitors.
Getting to Pekelmeer is easy, as Bonaire has a well-connected international airport with flights from various parts of the world. Visitors can hire a car or take a taxi from the airport to reach Pekelmeer, which is only a 20-minute drive away.
Pekelmeer is home to a flamingo sanctuary and is only one of four places like it in the world where flamingos breed. The lake itself is a salt lake, and just like the man-made salt pans nearby, it has a beautiful deep pink hue that contrasts stunningly with the white salt flats and mountains.
The best time to visit Pekelmeer is during the dry season, from November to June. Visitors can enjoy the warm sunshine and explore the lake without worrying about the rain during this time.
The Bonaire Pink Lake offers several activities, including birdwatching, photography, and nature walks. Visitors can witness the stunning sight of flamingos in flight or perched gracefully in the lake’s shallow waters. Nature lovers can also walk around the lake’s edges to witness the vast flora and fauna.
Pink Lakes in Europe
Laguna Rosa de Torrevieja, Spain
Situated on the southern coast of Spain, the picturesque Laguna Rosa de Torrevieja is just a stone’s throw from the Spanish city of Torrevieja. It is renowned for its mesmerising pink colour and has become a popular attraction among locals and tourists alike.
Getting to Laguna Rosa de Torrevieja is quite easy, as it is just a short drive from the centre of the city, itself only a 40-minute drive from Alicante Airport. For those on a city break who prefer public transportation, some buses run regularly between Torrevieja and the lagoon.
The weather in Torrevieja is typically Mediterranean, with long, hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Laguna Rosa de Torrevieja is at sunset in the summer months, especially after a little rain, when the lagoon offers its most intense pink tones.
There are plenty of things to do in Laguna Rosa de Torrevieja, whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing day out with your loved one. Visitors can take a stroll around the bright pink lake or swim in the saltwater pools.
If you’re planning to stay overnight in the area, there are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals available in Torrevieja, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts such as Hotel Dna Monse Spa & Golf, Hotel Playas de Torrevieja and Hotel Meridional.
Salin d’Aigues Mortes, France
A fascinating blend of nature and culture, the Salin d’Aigues Mortes is a stunning salt marsh in the Camargue region of France where you can often spot pink flamingos. To get there, you can take a train from Paris to Montpellier and hire a car to drive the remaining 21 miles. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or book a private transfer.
The lake isn’t pink all year round, so carefully planning your visit is essential. The best time to go is during summer.
Take a guided tour of the pink salt flats or board the Little Train for an hour-long trip around the salt marshes to learn about the history of salt production in the region.
You can also take a boat tour of the Canal du Rhône à Sète, where you can see flamingos, white horses and other wildlife. Additionally, the walled city of Aigues Mortes is just a short drive away, with its charming narrow streets and stunning architecture.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Salin d’Aigues Mortes, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious villas. Popular choices are Boutique Hotel des Remparts & SPA, La Villa Mazarin and My Father’s House.
For those seeking an authentic French experience, several charming bed and breakfasts are located in the surrounding countryside.
Lake Lemuria, Ukraine
Although we can’t visit now, we can still admire this pink lake’s natural beauty.
Nestled in the heart of Ukraine, 62 miles from Kherson, Lake Lemuria sits in one of the coves of the Siavash Bay. This breathtaking bubble gum pink lake is sometimes referred to as ‘the Dead Sea of Ukraine’ because of its high salt content.
The best time to visit is during the summer when the lake is most colourful.
When it comes to things to do, Lake Lemuria has plenty to offer. You can swim in the lake’s crystal clear waters, go on a scenic hike through the nearby forests, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views.
The lake’s remote location means that accommodation and restaurant options are limited.
Pink Lakes of the world in Asia & the Caucasus
Lake Tuz, Turkey (Turkiye)
Located in central Turkiye, Lake Tuz is one of the largest salt lakes in the world, covering an area of 643 square miles. It is situated in the Tuz Golu Basin, a closed basin without any outflow.
Like many of the lakes on this list, it is a delicate ecosystem whose future is in danger because of climate change.
To get to Lake Tuz, you can take a bus or hire a car from Ankara, which is approximately 93 miles away. The weather in Lake Tuz can be harsh, with hot summers and cold winters. As the lake is quite shallow, most of the water can evaporate during the summer, so the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the temperatures are mild.
This is also one of the best places to visit in Turkey during winter. During this time, you can witness the stunning pink colours of the lake as the sun sets.
There are plenty of things to do at Lake Tuz. Walk around the lake and admire the salt formations, then take a dip in the lake’s salty waters and experience the buoyancy effect. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a hot air balloon ride and get a bird’s eye view of the lake and the beautiful surrounding landscape.
There are several places to stay around the lake, with one of the best options on the lake is the Tuz Golu Lodge, which offers comfortable rooms and stunning lake views. The restaurant at the lodge serves delicious Turkish cuisine, including fresh seafood caught from the lake.
Maharlu Lake, Iran
Maharlu Lake (Maharloo Lake) is a breathtaking natural wonder in the Fars Province of Iran. Surrounded by stunning mountains and vast plains, this lake is certainly a sight to behold.
Getting to Maharloo Lake is quite easy. It is around 17 miles southeast of Shiraz, the capital city of Fars, which also has an international airport. From there, you can reach the lake in around 30 minutes by road.
The best time to visit is from June to September, when the lake is most beautiful – but bear in mind this is also when temperatures are high, so there is a chance that the water levels can drop and the lake can be dry in places.
Take a boat ride to explore the lake, go hiking, or enjoy a picnic on the waterfront. The lake is also home to various bird species, making it a great spot for birding.
The Shiraz Grand Hotel, Maharloo Eco-lodge, and Eram Hotel are recommended options if you want to stay the night.
Pink Lakes in Australia
Hutt Lagoon, Australia – one of the most vivid pink lakes of the world
There are more pink lakes in Australia than anywhere else on Earth. In the heart of Western Australia’s Coral Coast, Hutt Lagoon is one of the most iconic. To get there, you can embark on the scenic drive along the coast from Perth, which takes around 5.5 hours, or fly into nearby Geraldton and hire a car for a shorter 75-minute drive.
The area is accessible year round, but the best time to visit Hutt Lagoon is between July and September – specifically from 10am until 2pm or at sunset.
There are plenty of things to do on Hutt Lagoon, from taking a scenic drive to admiring the pink colours from above on a helicopter tour. Visitors can take a dip in the ocean, go fishing, or explore the nearby Kalbarri National Park.
The Port Gregory Caravan Park is a popular choice for staying overnight due to its proximity to the lagoon and beach. Other options in the area include the Old Miners Cottages and Horrocks Beach Caravan Park. Restaurant options are limited due to the lagoon’s remote location, so it may be best to bring a picnic lunch.
Lake Hillier, Australia
Located in Western Australia, Lake Hillier is another natural wonder famous for its striking pink colour.
Situated on Middle Island in the Recherche Archipelago, the best way to reach the lake is by taking a scenic flight from Esperance. Alternatively, visitors can take a boat tour from Esperance or Cape Le Grand National Park.
The lake spans around 2,000 feet in length and 820 feet in width, and features pristine, white sand along its edges. The lake is nestled amidst a thick forest of paperbark and eucalyptus trees, creating a mesmerising view. Beyond the trees lies a narrow stretch of dunes that act as a barrier between the lake and the Southern Ocean.
The best time to visit Lake Hillier is from October to April. During this time, the weather is generally dry, and temperatures are warm, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Since Lake Hillier is located on a small island, no hotels or restaurants are on site. However, there are plenty of accommodation options in nearby Esperance.
Pink Lakes on Rottnest Island, Australia
Located off the coast of Western Australia, Rottnest Island is a place of unparalleled beauty and rich Indigenous cultural heritage. Amidst a landscape of deep blue waters and stunning green hills, one of the most enchanting spots on this island is, of course, the pink lakes!
The colour is particularly vivid during the summer months when the water evaporates, leaving behind a crystallised layer of salt that reflects the sunlight in a dazzling display of pink.
Getting to Rottnest Island is easy, with regular ferries departing from Perth and Fremantle. Once on the island, you can rent a bike or take a bus to explore its many attractions, including the Pink Lakes.
Rottnest Island can be visited all year round, but the best time to go is in the morning on a sunny day. It’s worth noting that the island can get quite busy during summer so be sure to book your accommodation and activities in advance.
There is plenty to do on Rottnest Island, from snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters to spotting dolphins and taking selfies with quokkas! Accommodations range from basic campsites to luxury villas such as Hotel Rottnest and Chalet 153.
Pink Lakes in Africa
The Pink Salt Lake in Walvis Bay, Namibia
Walvis Bay is a beautiful coastal town on Namibia’s west coast, and its Pink Salt Lake has a very strong colouration. The best time to visit is from August to October at around midday, when the sun’s glare shows off the bright pink colour.
To get there, take a flight to Walvis Bay International Airport or opt for a road trip from Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. The journey takes approximately 4 hours, and the views along the way are breathtaking.
There is no shortage of things to do in Walvis Bay. You can take a boat cruise to see the dolphins, seals, whales and flamingos or go on a kayaking adventure to explore the lagoon. You can also visit the famous Dune 7, the highest sand dune in the area, and enjoy a sand boarding experience like no other.
Regarding accommodation, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can stay at luxurious hotels, cosy guesthouses or lodges. The Flamingo Villas Boutique Hotel, Protea, and The Lagoon Lodge are some of the top-rated hotels in Walvis Bay.
Lake Retba, Senegal
Another pink lake in Africa, Lake Reba is situated on the coast of Senegal. Also known as Lac Rose, the lake is famous for its striking pink colour. During the dry season, the salinity content of the water – which is normally very high anyway – exceeds that of the Dead Sea!
Lake Retba is only an hour’s drive from Dakar, the capital of Senegal. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a shared taxi from Dakar’s Gare Routière to the town of Niaga, which is near the lake.
The best time to visit Lake Retba is during the dry season, from November to June. During this time, the lake is at its pinkest and the weather is pleasant, with average temperatures of around 77 degrees. Be aware that the sun can be intense, so don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat.
Once you arrive at Lake Retba, you can take a boat ride on the lake to see the pink water up close or go for a swim (be prepared for that high salt content). If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try salt harvesting with the local workers.
If you plan to stay overnight, there are a few options, such as Chez Salim Lac Rose, Le Chamama and Hotel Toolbi. Alternatively, you can base yourself in Dakar for a day trip to the lake. As for food, a few local restaurants near the lake serve fresh seafood and traditional Senegalese cuisine.
Which of these pink lakes of the world would you most like to visit?