Lake Wabby
Lake Wabby is a barrier lake on K'gari in Australia formed by shifting sand dunes blocking a creek. The water has a crescent shape, reaches over 11 meters (36 feet) deep, and shows a greenish tint, surrounded by thick rainforest on one side and the Hammerstone sand blow on the other.
Underground springs and rainwater seeping through sandy soil have shaped this lake over thousands of years. The Hammerstone dune is gradually moving westward and already covering parts of the lake, changing its shape from year to year.
The name Wabby comes from the language of the Butchulla people, the traditional custodians of this island who had their own word for this spot. Today visitors come to experience the unusual meeting of rainforest and moving sand dune, which they notice while swimming and resting along the shore.
The walk to the lake follows a sandy path that takes about 20 to 40 minutes and crosses the Hammerstone sand blow, with comfortable shoes being helpful. Visitors should bring water, snacks, and sun protection since there are no facilities on site.
The moving sand dune will eventually cover the water completely, meaning the lake will disappear at some point. Visitors today can witness this slow natural process where sand and water meet in constant motion.
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