Lake Hillier has long been a topic of conversation when it comes to unusually colorful destinations in the world, and it's due to its unique coloring. From above, the lake's water appears more like a pool of Pepto Bismol than actual water, and it's been that way for well over a century, and possibly longer. The lake was discovered in 1802 by an explorer for the Royal Navy and since then, these bold waters have stumped many a scientist.
As science evolves and new and innovative testing becomes available, perhaps we will have an answer as to why the lake appears the way it does. For now, its appearance can only be explained through theories that seem to hold water (no pun intended), and it's still considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The biggest question everyone seems to have is this: Can a human being swim in it?
Its Pink Coloring Is Actually Still A Mystery
To this day, there is no definitive answer as to how the lake gets its exact color. However, it's a fact that Lake Hillier is not the only pink lake in the world. While it's by far the brightest and most vibrant, it's not the only colorful lake in the world. Lake Retba, near Senegal, also maintains a pinkish hue. This lake was used for salt extraction as, similar to Lake Hillier, the salt content of the water is extremely high. Lake Retba's coloring changes according to the season and is more prevalent during certain times of the year.
However, There Is A Theory, And It Involves Living Organisms
Similar to Lake Retba, it's believed that microorganisms living in the water, called Dunaliella Salina, are the cause of the pink water. These photosynthetic microorganisms thrive in waters that have high salinity, such as Lake Hillier. When they generate energy, they give off beta-carotene, which many know from the source humans get it from - carrots.
This excess is what's believed to give the lake its unique hue. Halophilic bacteria are also present in high amounts in this lake, which could be another factor in its coloring.
The Lake Isn't That Easy To Get To And Requires An Air Lift
While pictures might make Lake Hillier appear as though it's an easy one to get to, that's not the case. Tourists are encouraged to take the view of this lake from the sky, where it's far easier to see its bright pink hue in comparison to everything surrounding it.
The Big Question, Is It Safe to Swim In?
The answer is yes - it's absolutely safe to be in the water at Lake Hillier. In fact, it's safer than many other water sources due to the fact that there are no large fish or predatory species that reside in it.
Swimming in hypersaline water isn't the same as swimming in the ocean, and many have noticed the difference from the second they stepped food into this lake. However, drinking hypersaline water can be dangerous, as it will lead to a rapid cycle of dehydration.
But It's Currently Used For Research Purposes Only
Unfortunately, while Lake Hillier was once a tourist spot as well as a bountiful location for salt harvesting, it's now open for research purposes only. So while it is indeed safe to take a dip in these Pepto Bismol waters, it's not likely that travelers would get permission to do so. The entire island surrounding Lake Hillier is a nature preserve and remains uninhabited to protect the natural ecosystem that thrives there.