38 Places Where Nature Looks Straight Out of a Sci-Fi Movie

17. The Pink Waters of Lake Hillier: A Natural Pastel Phenomenon

Nestled on Middle Island off the coast of Western Australia, Lake Hillier is famous for its striking bubblegum-pink color. This vibrant hue is caused by the presence of Dunaliella salina algae and halophilic bacteria, which thrive in the lake's high-salinity environment and produce pigments that turn the water an eye-catching pink. The contrast between the lake’s pastel waters, the lush greenery of the surrounding island, and the deep blue of the Southern Ocean creates a visual spectacle that feels almost otherworldly. Unlike many colorful lakes, Lake Hillier's pink color is constant and does not change with seasons or water levels. Accessible primarily by air, visitors can marvel at this natural wonder from above, appreciating its vivid beauty and the scientific marvel of its unique ecosystem. Lake Hillier is a perfect example of the unexpected splendor hidden in Earth’s remote corners, a place where nature’s palette seems to defy convention.