Australia’s lakes span from ultra clear and great for swimming to bubblegum pink and best viewed from the shoreline. At Skyscanner Australia, we’ll share the most beautiful lakes in the country to inspire your next natural escape.
Most beautiful lakes for families
Lake McKenzie, Queensland
Located on Fraser Island, Lake McKenzie is one of the most unique lakes in Australia. Because the lake formed solely by collecting rainwater on a silica basin, it is completely transparent with no natural flow of water.
The deep cobalt colour looks striking against the white shoreline, and families love swimming in its calm waters. Because the water is so pure, it is unsuitable for most plant life. Only a few species of fish and turtles reside in the lake itself. If you want to sleep near the shore, there are basic campsite facilities at Lake McKenzie.
Lake Jindabyne, New South Wales
Lake Jindabyne is a freshwater lake tucked in the Snowy Mountains. Come wintertime, the lake is frosted with snow and an ideal spot to admire when you’re travelling in between the snowfields. Once the snow melts and the weather warms up, the lake is popular among boaters, and you can easily spend a few days swimming in its cool water and exploring the region’s many hiking trails.
Check into Lake Jindabyne Hotel, a family-friendly hotel that overlooks the lake. A large grassy area keeps the kids entertained with plenty of room to run around.
Lake Argyle, Western Australia
Gem-shaped islands dot Lake Argyle, commonly called the Jewel of the Kimberley by those who love it best. Families won’t have to worry about coaxing kids into the water thanks to the toasty warm water – lake temperatures hang around 30°C for most of the year. Venture out on a bushwalk around the lake and spot wildlife, like rock wallabies and native birds. Though there are freshwater crocodiles in Lake Argyle, they are generally timid and not known to harm humans.
Families can choose between powered and unpowered campsites, or check into a lakeside villa. If you prefer to stay somewhere closer to the centre of Kununurra, the Kimberley Grande Hotel is a top pick.
Most beautiful swimming holes
Fern Pool, Western Australia
Waterfalls that could double as bridal veils flow into Fern Pool, a turquoise rock pool hidden in Karijini National Park. The park itself is a haven for wild swimmers who love to tuck into secluded watering holes, but Fern Pool is an outlier thanks to its beauty. Fern Pool hosts the park’s only permanent falls, and earned its name from the curling ferns growing on its banks.
To keep the one-with-nature spirit of the trip, stay at Karijini Eco Retreat. The safari tents add an air of romance and are perfect for falling asleep under the stars.
Jim Jim Falls Pool, Northern Territory
Found in Kakadu National Park, Jim Jim Falls Pool is a family-friendly swimming hole that beckons those with a strong sense of adventure. Kakadu National Park itself is so spectacular, it’s earned two UNESCO World Heritage Site mentions, and it’s Jim Jim Falls have made it to the Australian National Heritage List.
Like all great beauties, Jim Jim Falls is multifaceted. During the wet season, the giant waterfall roars from over 150 metres high into a thundering plunge pool. During the dry season, the waterfall shrivels to a small stream, creating a tranquil pool that’s safe to swim in.
Spa Pool, Western Australia
Another pool worth dipping into in Karijini National Park, Spa Pool is as relaxing as its name suggests. The walls of this rust-coloured pool often heat up with the sun, which in turn warms the water to over 30°C on hot days. Occasionally, a trickle of water pours into Spa Pool, creating an even more relaxing ambience.
Bring some snacks to sit and stay awhile. The way the sunlight casts its shadows on the pool’s curved rocks creates quite a spectacle.
Most beautiful lakes for water sports
Lake Eildon, Victoria
One of the best day trips from Melbourne, Lake Eildon is a lake where you can enjoy wakeboarding, water skiing, boating, kayaking and swimming. The lake is massive – over six times the size of Sydney Harbour – so there’s no shortage of space to have fun.
Lake Navarino, Western Australia
Even some longtime residents of Western Australia haven’t taken advantage of Lake Navarino, one of the most underrated lakes in the state. The lake hosts a dedicated water ski and wakeboard area, with other sections reserved solely for non-motorised water sports. Surrounded by forest, enjoy walking and cycling around the lake’s unique shoreline. Visit as a day trip from Perth or stay at the lakeside campsite.
Most beautiful pink lakes
Lake Hillier, Western Australia
Lake Hillier is a lake you have to see to believe it even exists. On Middle Island, a tiny island off Western Australia, is a lake so pink, it looks more like a cartoon than reality. Because travellers cannot land on the island itself, Lake Hillier can only be seen from the sky. If you want to see whether this lake is more than a fictional fairytale, you’ll have to embark on a two-hour scenic flight that departs from the coastal town of Esperance.
Lake MacDonnell, South Australia
There’s no place quite like Lake MacDonnell, a pink lake found on the Eyre Peninsula of South Australia. A road splits Lake MacDonnell in two with teal water on one side and pink water on the other. From the sky, it resembles a watermelon rind, earning the nickname of “Watermelon Avenue” by those who make the long trek out here. If you’d like to stay nearby Lake MacDonnell, check into the hotel or caravan park at Penong.
Hutt Lagoon, Western Australia
Hang out in Hutt Lagoon, a strawberry milkshake-coloured pink lake on Western Australia’s Coral Coast. Depending on the time of day and the time of the year, this lake ranges from pastel pink to bright bubblegum. While you can’t swim at Hutt Lagoon, the ocean is just a few steps away from the lake’s shore.
Port Gregory Caravan Park is a clean and well-equipped caravan park found near Hutt Lagoon. Otherwise, consider driving 30 minutes to Kalbarri, a beach town famous for its national park and iconic surf spots.
Read: Lakes to Love: Where to Discover Australia’s Pink Lakes
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about Australia’s lakes
The largest lake in Australia is Lake Eyre, a whopping 9690km2. Did you know the three largest lakes in Australia are all found in South Australia? Lake Eyre is followed by Lake Torrens (5745km2) and Lake Gairdner (4351km2).
Most of Australia’s pink lakes get their rosy hue from Halobacteria and algae known as Dunaliella salina. These organisms can adapt well to super salty water and secrete a red carotenoid that gives the water its signature pink colour.
At 160 metres deep, Lake St. Clair in Tasmania is Australia’s deepest lake. You can camp alongside this idyllic crater lake on the southern part of Cradle Mountain.
Want to read more?
- 5 Microadventures You can Have in Australia Right Now: You don’t have to travel far to go on an adventure with these small-scale excursions.
- Discover the best campsites in Tasmania, Victoria and around Canberra, . Or, opt for one of Australia’s best eco retreats.
Ready to plan your dream trip to one of Australia’s most beautiful lakes? Skyscanner Australia can help you find the best flights, hotels, and car hire options for your trip.
