Pink Lake on Rottnest Island – surprisingly overlooked and underrated when people think of the best pink lakes in Western Australia.
Pink Lake on Rottnest’s close proximity to Perth and many surrounding natural beauties on the Island make it part of an unforgettable day (or days!) out.
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Where is Pink Lake?
Rottnest Island is only 21 km (around 25 minutes) on the ferry from Fremantle – the nearest port. You can also catch a ferry from Hillarys Boat Harbour in Perth’s northern suburbs, which is a 45-minute journey to the Island.
See the best deals below for the lowest-priced ferry fares and optional extras available for a day on Rottnest Island, like bike hire, snorkel hire, and island tours.
Heading out from the Visitor Centre in The Settlement, Pink Lake is approximately halfway around the Gabbi Karniny Bidi loop hike, a 9.5 km trail that takes 3-4 hours.
The trail is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, but there are some rough surfaces and steep sections to consider. The trail passes by 12 salt lakes in total, some of Rotto’s iconic beaches and the Wadjemup Lighthouse.
When is the Best Time to See the Lake?
If there has been a hot, dry summer, Pink Lake can dry out, leaving behind pink or white salt pans that look incredible when seen during a summer sunset, as they reflect the reds, oranges and pinks of the setting sun.
For the rest of the year, the lake water is reliably pink, with its intensity changing throughout the day. Both sunrise and sunset are regarded as being the best times to see Pink Lake in all its glory.
Can You Swim in Pink Lake Rottnest?
No swimming is allowed in any of the salt lakes around the island, but fortunately, there are multiple white-sand beaches easily accessed around Rottnest.
For a calm, lake-like swim the best bet would be The Basin, a popular family swimming spot protected by surrounding reefs. For a less crowded option, Little Parakeet Bay is a good bet, and also the closest beach to Pink Lake.
Accommodation & Things to Do Near Pink Lake
Rottnest Island is the kind of place where you could easily spend 3 – 5 days, see something different every day and not get bored.
Our top pick for Rottnest Island activities is the ever-popular Guided Snorkel Boat Experience, where you can discover shipwrecks and marine life that most visitors don’t get to see!
If you prefer to stay on dry land, Rottnest Island also has lots to explore, such as the Wadjemup Museum, military tunnels tour, golfing, and of course hiking, cycling, a multitude of dining options, and much more.
To make the most of Rottnest, allow a few day’s stay and enjoy waking up to the sound of the waves breaking on the beaches at one of the island’s top-rated accommodations…
See the best deals for the top accommodation on Rottnest Island below!
Samphire Rottnest is our top pick for a luxury stay right by the ocean, with all-round fantastic reviews, beach-luxe decor, and mouth watering dining options.
