Five most incredible pink lakes of Australia - and how to see them

The natural phenomenon is quite simple: microscopic algae takes a shine to salty waters and produces beta carotene - the same pigment that gives carrot its vivid hue. The result, however, is anything but plain: thanks to the salt-loving algae entire lakes turn bright bubblegum pink. It is estimated there are about 30 pink lakes around the world, but some of the most mesmerising are right here in Australia. Here's our pick of five of the best and how to experience them.

Just don't forget to bear these dos and don'ts in mind. The pinkness of these lakes can vary depending on the weather, so always check before you go. Don't drink the water; it's way saltier than the ocean. Don't swim unless you're absolutely sure you're allowed to. And if you do swim, make sure you don't have any open wounds because that's going to seriously sting.

1. Lake Hillier, WA

Getting to Lake Hillier - located on Middle Island in the Goldfields-Esperance region, off the coast of south WA - is not easy. But there's a reason why it draws big crowds and continues to grow in popularity. Only a thin strip of lush foliage and blinding-white sand separates it from the emerald-green waters of the Indian Ocean, making it a breathtaking sight, particularly, when taken in from the seat of a seaplane.

Check into Esperance Chalet Village - home to beautifully designed studios - and sign up for an 80-minute scenic flight with Fly Esperance, which will have you hovering above Lake Hillier as well as other smaller pink lakes of the region in no time. esperancechaletvillage.com.au; flyesperance.com

2. Hutt Lagoon, WA

Just under a six-hour drive north of Perth, Hutt Lagoon is a bit of a chameleon - its waters can change from bright pink to pale lilac to - even - intense red, depending on the time of year. But unforgettable sights are guaranteed if you arrive here at sunset, when the colours are at their most dramatic. The nearby Port Gregory Caravan Park is a great place to base yourself and, while a scenic flight is a no-brainer, for something a bit different, sign up for Pink Lake Tours' buggy excursion, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take selfies. portgregorycaravanpark.com.au; pinklaketours.com.au

3. Lake MacDonnell, SA

It's a good 10-hour drive from northwest of Adelaide via Port Augusta, but we bet you won't be complaining when driving on a thin strip of sand that separates the bright pink waters of Lake MacDonnell from the mesmerising blue swells of the Southern Ocean. There are no organised tours of this lake (it's that remote), so experience it as part of a great Australian road trip, with a pit stop at the nearby Penong Caravan Park. penongcaravanpark.com.au

4. Lake Bumbunga, SA

Located near the sleepy South Australian town of Lochiel, Lake Bumbunga wins our vote for the convenience factor. Not only is it just a 90-minute drive north of Adelaide, you can stay right next to it by checking into Pink Lake Tiny House, which features a range of accommodation - from two tiny houses and two bell tents to a three-bedroom holiday house with private beach. pinklaketinyhouse.com.au

5. Pink Lakes, Murray-Sunset National Park, Vic