Exploring Lake Magic – A Hidden Treasure Close to the Wave Rock
Western Australia is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, and Lake Magic is one of them.
Located in the small town of Hyden, only three hours’ drive east of Perth, Lake Magic is a hidden gem that often goes overlooked for being the next-door neighbour to the famous Wave Rock. With its incredible colour changes, Lake Magic is a must-see destination for any outdoor lover.
In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the magic of Lake Magic, from how to get there to what to do when you visit it and much more.
Watch our Youtube video where we visited Lake Magic below:
What is Lake Magic?
Lake Magic is a natural wonder located in Hyden, a small town in Western Australia. This mysterious body of water is near Wave Rock, another famous landmark of Western Australia. Although the water is quite salty, it’s a stunning turquoise salt lake that makes for a sensational swimming spot.
The lake has a gypsum minerals base and is surrounded by sand, making it a pretty sight. The lake’s colours change beautifully as the sun rises and sets, creating a magical atmosphere that attracts many visitors. Furthermore, Lake Magic is known as Australia’s Floating Salt Lake due to its unique properties.
The water in Lake Magic appears clear, and the lake gets its name for its high salt density. This hypersaline lake is so dense that it makes it nearly impossible for people to sink! In fact, its therapeutic properties and buoyancy are greater than that of the Dead Sea!!
How to get to Lake Magic?
Here’s a simple guide on how to get to Lake Magic in Hyden, Western Australia:
Starting from Perth: If you’re starting your journey from Perth, the best way to reach Lake Magic is to head east along the Brookton Highway. You can hire one here if you don’t have your own vehicle.
The Route: Drive along Brookton Hwy, heading east. This scenic route will take you through several small towns and vast stretches of beautiful landscape.
Arriving at Hyden: Once you reach the town of Hyden, you’ll want to make your way to the Wave Rock Kiosk and buy your pass for Lake Magic. There is a $10 fee per adult for the entrance to Lake Magic. The lake is situated just one kilometre north of Wave Rock.
Remember, using a GPS or online map service for precise directions and real-time traffic updates is always a good idea. Also, make sure to plan your trip so that you can witness the changing colours of Lake Magic at sunrise or sunset. It’s truly a magical sight!
For specific directions to Lake Magic, see the map below:
Best time to visit Lake Magic
The best time to visit Lake Magic in Hyden, Western Australia, is sunrise or sunset. The hues of the sky at these times create a mesmerizing effect on the lake, changing its colours and offering a truly magical experience.
However, the lake tends to dry up during the hot summer months, particularly in January. Therefore, planning your visit outside of this period will ensure you see the lake at its most stunning.
Before you plan your trip, check the local weather forecasts for Hyden to ensure optimal conditions for your visit.
What to do at Lake Magic
Lake Magic in Hyden, Western Australia, offers visitors a variety of activities to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and unique properties of this salt lake.
*There is a $10 entry fee per adult for the entrance to Lake Magic.
Float
Of course, the number 1 thing to do at Lake Magic is to float. The high density of the water makes it nearly impossible for you to sink. Believe us, we tried.
Photography
The changing colours of Lake Magic at sunrise and sunset provide stunning photo opportunities. Its turquoise water contrasting with the sandy beach makes it a photographer’s dream.
Bird Watching
The area surrounding Lake Magic is home to various bird species, making it an excellent spot for bird watching.
Sightseeing
Just one kilometre from Lake Magic is Wave Rock, a natural rock formation that draws tourists worldwide. Other nearby attractions include Mulka’s Cave, Hippo’s Yawn, Wave Rock Wildlife Park and many other beautiful spots. For a comprehensive blog post about the top things to do in the area, read our Explore the Wonders of Wave Rock – Top Things to Do! article.
Remember to respect the natural environment during your visit, leaving it as pristine as when you arrived for future visitors to enjoy.
Accommodation in the area
When visiting Wave Rock and the other attractions in the area, we recommend spending two full days; for that, you will need a place to stay overnight. Below are two of the most popular options:
Wave Rock Caravan Park
Right next to the Wave Rock, at Wave Rock Caravan Park, you’ll find a range of accommodation options, from powered and unpowered sites to self-contained cabins.
The park has over 100 sites available, most of which are grassy and shaded. If you’re camping with a larger vehicle, you can opt for one of the park’s drive-through sites, which can accommodate up to 9 meters. For those who prefer a bit more luxury, Wave Rock Caravan Park has several self-contained cabins, air conditioning, a kitchenette, and a private bathroom.
Wave Rock Caravan Park is pet friendly, and if you stay there, you get free entry to Lake Magic, AND you can walk to Wave Rock and Hippo’s Yawn. Worth it if you ask us.
Wave Rock Resort
Wave Rock Resort is a 4-star colonial-style accommodation in Hyden, just a kilometre from the iconic Wave Rock. Overlooking the beautiful Lake Magic, the resort offers a spectacular view and a unique experience of staying close to nature.
The resort comprises 14 two-bedroom cottages, each equipped with a kitchen, lounge, en-suite, private courtyard, air-conditioning, and free WiFi. Visitors can enjoy a scenic sunrise over the world-famous Wave Rock and relax in the resort’s saltwater pool.
The resort also boasts a caravan park for those who prefer an outdoor camping experience. Wave Rock Resort provides a tranquil escape amidst Western Australia’s golden outback.
