9 Most Beautiful Lakes in Australia

The iconic Dove Lake - with Creadle Mountain at the backdrop. Taken during a cloudless morning. Getty Images / www.SantanuBanik.com

Australia is known for its diverse landscapes and immense natural beauty. This wondrous nation also boasts some of the world’s most spectacular lakes. Here are nine of the best lakes in Australia:

1. Blue Lake

The Blue Lake is a large monomictic crater lake located in an extinct volcanic maar associated with the Mount Gambier maar complex. The lake is situated near Mount Gambier in the Limestone Coast region of South Australia and is one of four crater lakes on Mount Gambier maar. Of the four lakes, only two remain, as the other two (Leg of Mutton and Brown) have dried up over the past 30 to 40 years as the water table has dropped.
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This body of water located near Mount Gambier gets its name from its deep blue-colored water. The water appears to change color to a shade of grey during the autumn and winter months. Residents in the surrounding area have the opportunity to enjoy the fresh drinking water harvested from this lake. A small monument dedicated to the famous poet and politician Adam Lindsay Gordon sits on the lake’s shore.

2. Dove Lake

Located in the island state of Tasmania, this lake is surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation. Cradle Mountain majestically towers above the lake and creates a scenic backdrop. Walking paths located next to the lake allow people to freely explore the area. Wombats and tiger snakes can be found in the area around the lake.

3. Lake Alexandrina

At one entrance to Lake Alexandrina in South Australia, lies the only inland lighthouse in Australia at Point Malcolm. The lake is a mixture of sea water and the outward flow of fresh water from the Murray River and levels can rsie and drop considerably.
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Named in honor of Princess Alexandrina, this lake in South Australia is situated just outside the city limits of Adelaide. Aboriginal tribes once believed that a monster named Muldjewangk lived in the lake. People who walk along the shore of the lake are likely to see different species of lizards, turtles, and butterflies.

4. Lake McKenzie

This heavenly lake is famous for its radiant blue and turquoise-colored water. White sand surrounding the lake adds to its visual appeal. People who visit this lake can find plenty of suitable picnic and camping areas as well as barbeque and restroom facilities. The lake is situated on Queensland’s Frasier Island.

5. Lake Albina

Scenic landscape of Albina Lake, Kosciuszko National Park in summer, located in the Thredbo-Perisher area in NSW Australia. This photo was taken along the Main Range Track, a popular day hike in the area. Kosciuszko National Park is home to the tallest mountains in Australia including Mt Kosciuszko. The park is notable for hiking, wildflower viewing and mountain biking activities in summer, and snow sports and skiing in winter.
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People can find this beautiful glacial lake located near Mount Kosciuszko in New South Wales. Snowfall is visible around the lake throughout much of the year. A famous ski resort known as Lake Albina Ski Lodge was once located near the lake.

6. Lake Eacham

This volcanic lake in Queensland is situated among a lush rainforest. The lake is one of the main attractions found in Crater Lakes National Park. Rainbowfish can often be seen swimming in the water. Tourists and locals often come to this lake on warm days to enjoy activities like swimming and paddle boating. The area around the lake is also an ideal place to go for a bird watching or bushwalking adventure.

7. Lake Hillier

Pink lake aerial view on middle island surrounded blue ocean. Stark contrasting natural phenomenon in Western Australia.
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The pink water found within this lake creates a unique image. Scientists and environmentalist are still unable to determine why the lake is pink, but the water is considered safe for humans. Some experts believe that the water is pink due to high levels of algae and bacteria combined with a low concentration of nutrients. White sand and a dense forest of eucalyptus trees surround the lake. This intriguing body of water can be found just off the southern coast of Western Australia on Middle Island.

8. Lake Canobolas

This manmade lake was completed in the 20th century and is an ideal place to enjoy a picnic or a peaceful afternoon among the serenity of nature. The lake is situated in New South Wales near the city of Orange. A dormant volcano known as Mount Canobolas can be found near the lake. The lake was also once used by locals as a source of drinking water.

9. Lake Cootharaba

Tranquile scene of boats moored in the still tranquil waters of Lake Cootharaba at early morning with trees at lake's shore,Lake Coothraba,Queensland,Australia
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Located in Queensland just north of Brisbane, this lake is popular for people who are looking to enjoy a day swimming, sailing and other water sports. The abundance of fish also makes this lake a popular place among avid fishermen. The lake can be found within the southern section of the Great Sandy National Park.