Mikkira Pink Lake

On the far south coast of New South Wales, near the town of Merimbula, Mikkira Pink Lake is a surreal natural phenomenon that feels like a mirage. The lake’s vivid pink hue, caused by algae and bacteria in the highly saline water, creates a striking contrast against the deep blue sky and surrounding bushland. It’s a photographer’s dream and a must-see for anyone driving the Sapphire Coast. The colour is most intense in late summer and autumn, and the lake is best viewed from the small car park and walking track that encircles it.

Highlights & What to See

• The Pink Lake itself – the main attraction; walk the short loop track (about 1 km) to see the colour shift with the light. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best reflections.
• Birdwatching – the lake attracts swans, pelicans, and migratory shorebirds; bring binoculars.
• Salt crusts and crystals – along the shoreline, you’ll see delicate salt formations that crunch underfoot.
• Merimbula – the nearby town has excellent seafood, a boardwalk along the estuary, and whale-watching tours (June–November).

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 30 minutes to 1 hour for the lake itself – enough to walk the loop, take photos, and soak in the stillness. If you’re based in Merimbula, combine the lake with a morning at the Merimbula Aquarium or a coastal walk along the Merimbula Boardwalk. Most visitors incorporate it as a quick stop on a day’s drive between Tathra and Eden.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Merimbula – just 10 minutes north, with beaches, cafes, and the popular Merimbula Wharf for fish and chips.
• Eden – 25 minutes south, a historic whaling town with the Killer Whale Museum and stunning coastal lookouts.
• Ben Boyd National Park – 30 minutes north, featuring the iconic red-and-white Boyd’s Tower, lightstation ruins, and sea cliffs.
• Bournda National Park – 20 minutes north, with excellent bushwalks and the beautiful Bournda Lagoon.
• Tathra – 20 minutes north-east, a charming seaside village with a historic wharf and good surfing beaches.

Please check official sources for current details.