Few things in Western Australia stand out more than the Hutt Lagoon. With its vibrant bubblegum-pink waters, this lagoon is more appropriately known as the “Pink Lake”. Located on the Coral Coast, Hutt Lagoon is one of the most unmissable destinations in the region.
That’s why D’Guy Journeys travels here as part of our Kalbarri Trips. We tour the length and breadth of the Western Australian coastline, visiting attractions like Kalbarri National Park, Geraldton, and the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs!
To learn more about the phenomenal Pink Lake, we’ve created this guide to visiting Hutt Lagoon, including how to get there and things to do. If you have any questions about our tours, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
What Makes Hutt Lagoon Pink?
The lake’s unique pink color is due to a combination of high salinity levels and the presence of dunaliella salina. This is a type of algae that produces beta-carotene, the same pigment found in carrots and pumpkin. In fact, Hutt Lagoon is home to the world’s largest microalgae production plant in which dunaliella salina is farmed.
Hutt Lagoon is not the only pink waters you can find in Australia, with plenty more across the country. You can learn more with our guide to Western Australia’s Incredible Pink Lakes.
How Do You Reach Hutt Lagoon?
Hutt Lagoon is located on the Coral Coast near Port Gregory, about 515 km north of Perth. From Perth, you can take National Route 1 and then State Route 139 to reach the lake.
If you drive from Perth to the Pink Lake, it will take you approximately 5.5 hours in total. We’d recommend turning that long drive into a road trip up the coast to make the most of your sightseeing. For ideas on what to see, check out our Epic Perth to Kalbarri Road Trip Itinerary.
Hutt Lagoon is more quickly accessed from the town of Geraldton, which is a 1.5-hour drive away, or Kalbarri, which is just a 1 hour drive away. The best viewing platform is located at the Port Gregory Road.
Best Time to Visit Hutt Lagoon
Hutt Lagoon’s colours can change according to the time of day and the weather, so it’s important to factor in when you visit for the best possible experience.
It’s possible to visit Hutt Lagoon all year-round, as you’ll likely experience its varied hues no matter the season. However, summer presents the risk of the lake drying out in the heat, while winter brings the chance of clouds and rain which will diminish the colours. For the optimal conditions, you’ll have the best chance when visiting in spring or autumn.
The time of day can play a large role in the colours of the lagoon. If you want to see the pink waters at their brightest, the hours between 10 am and 2 pm will show off Hutt Lagoon at its best thanks to the height of the sun. For more detailed information, you read our blog answering the question: Is the Pink Lake in Australia Pink All Year Round?
Things to Do at Hutt Lagoon
Of course, the best thing to do at Hutt Lagoon is take photos! While the pink colours will undoubtedly leave you with an indelible impression, the waters also provide the perfect backdrop for professional landscape photography, family photos, or a killer selfie. You’ll be the envy of your Instagram followers!
There are no walking trails around the lagoon, but you can explore the surrounding dunes on a buggy tour and learn more about Port Gregory while admiring the views. For the ultimate perspective, you can take an aerial tour with Kalbarri Scenic Flights and fly over Hutt Lagoon and other attractions like the Abrolhos Islands.
The thing people want to do the most at Hutt Lagoon is to swim in the pink waters. However, this is not recommended due to the high saline content which can damage clothing and cause skin irritation. This doesn’t mean you can’t walk right to the edge for a close-up experience!
Tips for Visiting Hutt Lagoon
To have the best experience possible, we have some tips for visiting Hutt Lagoon:
- Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. This is especially important if you visit in the summer or at midday, as it can get very hot and bright.
- Since you’ll likely be spending a few hours driving and then exploring outside, make sure you wear comfortable and breathable clothing.
- Areas around the lake can be soft and muddy, so avoid wearing open-toe shoes like flip-flops.
- There are no restaurants or cafes near Hutt Lagoon, but there is a general store in Port Gregory which sells fish and chips, snacks, cool drinks, and dry goods. If you’d prefer something else, make sure to pack your own food.
- Most importantly, make sure you bring water to stay hydrated!
Visit Hutt Lagoon with D’Guy Journeys!
If you want to visit Hutt Lagoon without the hassle of driving, we have the perfect option for you. Our Coastal Cliffs and Pink Lake Tour from Kalbarri takes you on a half-day trip from Kalbarri to the Hutt Lagoon and the stunning Coastal Cliffs. This a real immersion into the Coral Coast’s varied beauty, made all the better by the company of a knowledgeable guide! If you have any questions about our tours, don’t hesitate to contact us.
