Local highlight

Lake Bumbunga

Where: Lake Bumbunga 

Bumbunga comes from the indigenous language meaning “rain water lake”.
We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Kaurna people, the traditional custodians whose ancestral lands Lake Bumbunga is found.

Nestled in the heart of South Australia's beautiful Clare Valley, Bumbunga Lake is a stunning natural wonder that's well worth a visit. This beautiful salt lake is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering breathtaking views, unique flora and fauna, and plenty of opportunities for some great photo-taking.

Bumbunga Lake is approximately 35 minutes from Kadina, just off the A1 Highway (PrincesHwy). The infamous pink colour comes from it being a salt marsh lake. Although like most salt marsh lakes in Australia, it is very shallow, generally being about 10cm deep.

Part of the charm of the lake is that the colour changes with the season, cloudiness and even the time of the day. Generally, the lake is in its pink prime after rainy and cloudy days, as the lake is full of fresh nutrients from scouring the rain. The lake also tends to be its pinkest early in the morning and at sunset, however, the colour of the lake can vary from light purple to bubblegum pink.

Bumbunga Lake is up of three salt pans that have been used for salt harvesting for over 30 years for use in swimming pools, water softeners and fish and chips.

You can even take some photos with the Lochiel Ness Monster that is visible from Highway 1, a row of semi-circle tyres sitting ominously in the lake.

Head out for a day trip to take some amazing photos, walk around the lake and take in the incredible sights.