cocos keeling island tourism association

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WELCOME To The Cocos Keeling Islands

Australia's last unspoilt paradise lies in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, kissed by the sun and caressed by fragrant trade winds.

Councillors' Canberra Visit

Shire President Aindil Minkom, Deputy President Isa Minkom, and elected members Azah Badlu and Osman Sloan, Chief Executive Officer Frank Mills, and Ibrahim Macrae our Governance, Planning and Risk Manager travelled to Canberra in early July for meetings with several Ministers and Senators. 

Annual Work Plan Consultation Session

As the Chief Executive Officer of the Shire, I am very pleased to say we had a very good turnout for the Community Consultation Day to assist in the development of the 2024 – 2025 Annual Work Plan.

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Cocos (Keeling) Islands travel information

For more information visit the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association website .

Air services

Time difference, customs and immigration, information for visiting yachts.

Virgin Australia operates an air service between Perth and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands via Christmas Island. Flights depart Perth International Airport and transit Christmas Island on Tuesday and Saturday each week.

Refer to the Virgin Australia website for further details.

A freighter aircraft operates from Perth to Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands each fortnight on a Friday (see Services section below for freight arrangements).

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are one and a half hours behind Western Standard Time (WST) and three and a half hours behind Eastern Standard Time (EST). For example 9.00 am in Sydney is 7.00 am in Perth and 5.30 am on Cocos. Daylight saving is not observed on Cocos so an extra hour will need to be added during this time.

Passports and visas are not required when travelling to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands from the Australian mainland. However, photographic identification, such as an Australian Driver's Licence or Proof of Age card, must be produced for each passenger (including children) for clearance through Customs and Immigration. A valid passport meets this identification requirement and is the preferred means of documentation to expedite passenger processing and provide passenger identification in the case of a flight diversion to another country.  

Normal Australian Customs and Immigration procedures apply when entry is made from outside Australia. A passport is necessary and a visa may be required. Refer to your travel agent or the Department of Immigration and Border Protection for further details.

Duty free purchases may be made for travel to and from the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are home to some unique species of wildlife. The Islands are also free of many pests and diseases that are found in other parts of the world. The Department of Agriculture is the border agency charged with the task of protecting the environment and human health from pest or disease incursions. The department's objective is to facilitate the movement of passengers, cargo, aircraft and vessels in the way that minimises any inconvenience to the people involved while maintaining the quarantine integrity of the islands. This is achieved through various reporting, screening, inspection and treatment mechanisms. Certain products are prohibited on the islands while other items may require some form of treatment before they may be released.

Any person wishing to know more about the quarantine requirements on Christmas Island or the Cocos (Keeling) Islands should contact the Indian Ocean Territories office on telephone: 08 9164 7456, fax: 08 9164 7468, mobile: 0439 215 456 or email [email protected] .

Importation of cats and dogs

Under the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Shire local law on Animal Control, the Shire has the right to refuse applications for the importation of cats and dogs. The Shire also has the discretion to approve the importation of a dog if it is an assistance animal. If a person wishes to import an assistance animal, an application can be made in writing to the Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

Accommodation

A range of accommodation is available from motel rooms to self contained rooms and houses. Details are available from the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association . It is highly recommended that bookings be made prior to arrival on the island.

Restaurants and bars

There are two restaurants on Cocos and one coffee shop. The Tropika Restaurant and Dory's Cafe are located on West Island, whilst Bunga Melati is located on Home Island. In the case of all three restaurants, meals are reasonably priced and rarely exceed AUD$20.00 per person.

The Cocos Club is open in the evenings for bar and take away drink service. Club ‘food nights" are advertised on the blackboard and all visitors are welcome.

Contact the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association to confirm opening hours and for booking details.

Shopping is limited on Cocos. Basic groceries, clothing, souvenirs, camping, snorkelling and diving gear, fishing equipment and a limited range of duty free goods are available. DVD hire and a book exchange operates at the Telecentre.

Many shops have irregular opening hours. It is advised that you bring a sufficient supply of certain personal goods such as prescription medicines.

Most businesses on West Island accept credit cards, a few accept Diners and Amex, and several now have EFTPOS facilities.

There are no Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) on the island, and visitors are advised to bring sufficient cash.

Postal services

Post Offices on both West and Home Islands provide postal and philatelic services. Opening hours are limited.

Postal services to Cocos are twice weekly. Envelopes and Express Post Packages will be sent by air. Other mail, including airmail packages, will be sent via sea mail which may take up to two months for delivery.

Freight to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands may be sent by air or sea. Air freighter services depart from Perth, every fortnight. Sea freight is from Fremantle, Western Australia every four to six weeks.

For further information:

• Air freight bookings and enquiries refer to http://www.freightshop.com.au/
• Sea freight bookings and enquiries refer to http://zentnershipping.com.au/

Cars are available to hire for travel on West Island, bookings in advance are advised. Pickup and delivery can be arranged from the airport.

The fuel pump is located near the West Island jetty and is open on Fridays between 1.30 pm and 4.30 pm. Payment can be made by cash or cheque.

Contact the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association for further details.

Telecommunications

Four television stations are broadcast from Western Australia via satellite. These are ABC, SBS, WIN and GWN. A local radio station, 6CKI—Voice of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, is staffed by community volunteers and provides some local content. ABC Regional Radio and FM music stations are also broadcast.

As television and radio stations are broadcast through a satellite service rainfall may cause interference.

The telephone service is part of the Australian network. The local area code is 08 and international is +61 8 Mobile phones from mainland Australia will not work on Cocos. Mobile phones (already connected to the local system) are available to hire from the Telecentre. Bookings are advised as there is a limited supply. Public phones are also available and are located on both West Island and Home Island.

Electricity

Electricity on Cocos is generated by two diesel plants, one on West Island and one on Home Island.

Both power stations are currently managed and maintained by the Water Corporation of Western Australia under an SDA with the Australian Government.

Water is pumped from several water lenses located beneath West and Home Island. A reverse osmosis plant is used to suppliement the water supply on Home Island. The water supply is managed and maintained by the Water Corporation under a SDA to the Australian Government.

Papers are generally not available for purchase. However a number of mainland magazines and newspapers are available to read at the community library at the West Island School Campus.

The Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands and the Cocos Islands Community Resource Centre produce The Atoll , a fortnightly local newsletter.

Recreation is centred on the Islands" natural resources and is predominantly water based. Local tour operators provide guided cultural tours on Home Island, including snorkelling, diving, island hopping and fishing. The lagoon also offers excellent conditions for windsurfing, kite boarding and sailing.

A key part of the social life of the West Island community centres on the Cocos Club and various activities. Visitors to Cocos are welcome to use the Club and join in other activities including tennis, golf and Hash House Harriers. Check the blackboard outside the Cocos Club for details. These activities are usually organised by volunteers.

Many events are held throughout the year to celebrate the varied cultural aspects of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. These events are linked to special days, such as New Year, Australia Day, Act of Self Determination Day and Hari Raya. Visitors are welcome to join in these celebrations and details are available from the Tourism Association.

A ferry operates between Home Island and West Island Monday to Saturday. Operating times can be found on the website of the Cocos Islands Co-Operative Society Limited. The Islands unique history and culture can be viewed at the museums on both West and Home Island. Tours can also be arranged by contacting the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association .

The relaxed attitude of the islands is reflected in the casual attire worn by residents and visitors. Business dress is smart casual. A hat and sunscreen is recommended when outdoors and reef shoes or sandshoes should be worn in the water to avoid injury from the coral.

When visiting Home Island, people should wear appropriate clothing to respect the community's dress standards. Women and men are asked to wear modest outfits which cover the shoulders and upper legs.

Special vaccinations and medications are not required for travel to Cocos (Keeling) Islands. It is important to ensure that supplies of personal medications are brought for the duration of the intended travel, as supplies of special medication may be limited and could take up to a week to obtain. Pharmaceuticals and general supplies are available from the chemist.

Health clinics operate on both West Island and Home Island providing essential health services. People sustaining serious illness or injuries may be sent to Perth for treatment. It is important for people to check their health and travel insurance before travelling to the Islands.

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are located in the Indian Ocean at latitude 12°10" south and longitude 96°52" east. The Cocos (Keeling) Islands welcomes visiting yachts and provides anchorages at Direction Island.

Upon arrival all yachts must contact Customs on Channel 20 VHF. Once cleared by the Customs Officer you may leave your vessel and visit the Islands.

Direction Island offers a quiet anchorage and has a small shelter and toilet facility. Other facilities are available at Home Island and West Island.

Home Island is 1.5nms south of Direction Island. It is advisable to follow the channel markers to Home Island as there are numerous shallow areas and coral outcrops along the route.

West Island is 4.5nms west of the anchorage. It is recommended to catch the ferry from Direction Island (Saturdays only) or from Home Island, rather than to travel across the lagoon in a small tender.

Supplies of fresh fruit, vegetables and other produce are generally limited.

The Cocos Island Marine Centre can do minor repairs to vessels and equipment. It may be contacted through ‘Cocos Marine Officer" Channel 20 VHF or on 08 9162 7595 during business hours.

Fuel may be purchased through Shell West Island on Channel 20 VHF or phone 08 9162 6670.

Please keep Direction Island clean.

Cocos Keeling Islands

Tourism Western Australia acknowledges Aboriginal peoples as the traditional custodians of Western Australia and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal West Australians and honour their continuing connection to Country, culture and community. We recognise and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by First Nations peoples across many generations in shaping Western Australia as a premier destination.

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14 incredible days on Christmas and Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Island hop between these extraordinary locations on an unforgettable 14-day adventure.

By Sue Gough Henly, Georgia Rickard

Get close to unique birdlife, bizarre crab migrations,  coral reefs , turtles and whale sharks on this 14-day itinerary. Go deep sea fishing and kitesurfing and relax on some of the world's most beautiful beaches. On these islands, closer to Asia than mainland Australia, you'll discover a distinctive Malay culture and dine on unique Chinese island cuisine. The ideal time to visit  Christmas Island  and the  Cocos (Keeling) Islands  is during the south-east wind season between April and November. This coincides with the annual red crab migration on Christmas Island (October to November) and the Hari Raya Puasa (end of Ramadan) cultural celebration on Home Island in the Cocos (Keeling) islands.

What to expect

• See rare birdlife and an extraordinary crab migration
• Bask on exquisite white sand beaches
• Snorkel or dive on pristine, remote coral reefs 
• Time: 14 days
• Distance: 1,000 kilometres (684 miles)
• Transport: plane, boat, car and bike
• Nearest major city: Perth
• Price: $$$$

Day 1: Perth to Christmas Island

View of Flying Fish Cove from Territory Day Park, Christmas Island © Tourism Australia

Take the four-hour flight from Perth to Christmas Island , 135 square kilometres (52 square miles) of steep cliffs, tropical rainforest, rare birdlife, national parks and crabs. Sir David Attenborough labelled Christmas Island the "kingdom of the crabs", and for good reason. This fascinating place is home to an abundance and diversity of land crabs not matched anywhere else on Earth. Tens of millions of endemic red crabs live here, and you'll see them everywhere: in trees, on footpaths, under boardwalks and on beaches. There are also another two dozen species to look out for, including endemic blue crabs (you'll find them inhabiting the island's wetlands), and the harmless, but enormous robber crabs. Named for their propensity to stealing anything that catches their eye, these colourful, basketball-sized creatures are often seen on forest floors and on the island's roads.

Pick up your hire car (4WD is essential as the roads outside the townships are unsealed) and drive to the island's main settlement (known simply as Settlement), where you'll check in to comfortable motel-style accommodation at  The Sunset . Then take the 10-minute drive to  Territory Day Park , which sits at the top of a mountain crest and offers spectacular views of Settlement and the popular adjacent swimming spot, Flying Fish Cove, below. Enjoy a two-kilometre (1.2-mile) return rainforest walk around the park and get your bearings before taking the 10-minute drive to  Tai Jin House , a grand manor that was originally the residence of the island's British administrator. You'll find a permanent exhibition detailing Christmas Island's fascinating history. Enjoy dinner with the locals at the  Golden Bosun Tavern , a relaxed pub by the water serving tap beer and affordable meals.

Day 2: Christmas Island

Swimming with whale sharks, Christmas Island © Tourism Australia

Today you'll explore Christmas Island's remarkable underwater world in the area's warm, translucent waters. Because the island is perched on the edge of the Java Trench (the Indian Ocean's deepest point), it offers some of the world's best wall dives in exquisitely clear water. Divers are likely to see large pelagic fish such as tuna, barracuda and reef sharks, as well as some of the 88 coral species and 600 fish species living here, spinner dolphins, and green and hawksbill turtles. Between November and April it's possible to swim with whale sharks on their annual migration. During the October to November's red crab migration – a sight that Sir David has called one of the most memorable moments of his television career, due to the millions of crabs that move down to the water like a giant red carpet – you can take a tour with  Indian Ocean Experiences  and watch the female crabs spawn. Afterwards, play golf on the lush fairways of the nine-hole  Christmas Island Golf Course . Or take a short, steep rugged walk to the Golf Course Lookout, where you can watch red footed boobies, endangered Christmas Island frigate birds and golden bosuns soar past as you admire the spectacular views along the north-east coast. Visit the nearby Mar Chor Nui Nui Temple facing out to sea and dedicated to the Sea Goddess. Enjoy dinner at the Chinese Literary Association, which is not a bookstore but a restaurant serving authentic Chinese fare. Christmas Island's population is 60 per cent Chinese. 

Day 3: Christmas Island

Snorkelling at Dolly Beach, Christmas Island © Tourism Australia

Today you'll visit the remarkably pretty Dolly Beach. Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation, then pack a picnic and drive 16.5 kilometres (10 miles) to the beginning of the Dolly Beach walking track , where you'll take the leisurely one-kilometre (0.6-mile) boardwalk through rainforest to arrive at this special place. Dolly Beach is a powdery white stretch of sand framed by a dramatic grove of coconut palms and surrounded by shallow, azure waters complete with a coral reef. Pack a snorkel; you can borrow one at your accommodation. Be sure to take a dip in the natural rock pool in the middle of the beach (it's nicknamed Dolly Beach Spa for the gentle waves that swoosh into it, creating bubbles) and look out for the area's robber crabs as well as the turtles that nest here all year round. Afterwards, drive 11 kilometres (7 miles) south through the rainforest to the  Blowholes , where you'll see a dramatic natural performance. The waves here spurt upwards through hundreds of holes in the rocky coastline, creating airborne jets of water in a landscape of black rock pinnacles. Return to Settlement via the stunning  Margaret Knoll lookout , which offers panoramic views of the island's east coast and is a perfect site to watch seabirds soaring.

Day 4: Christmas Island

Hugh's Dale, The Dales, Christmas Island © Tourism Australia

Fifteen kilometres (nine miles) from your accommodation, you'll find the Dales, one of the few places on the island with permanent flowing water, providing a significant habitat for the island's endemic blue crabs. Take the boardwalk through Tahitian chestnut trees, strangler figs and banyan trees. On your way, look out for the blue crabs, which are an incredible sky blue colour, and follow the freshwater stream to Hughs Dale waterfall, where you can enjoy a shower (pictured). The Dales is one of Christmas Island's two Ramsar protected wetlands. If you are feeling adventurous, follow another trail from Hughs Dale to Andersons Dale, a small gorge with a stream that flows to the sea. After spending the day here, drive to nearby  Martin Point  for spectacular sunset views and loads of frigate (booby) birds.

Day 5: Christmas Island

Outdoor Cinema on Christmas Island © Tourism Australia

Spend the day  deep sea fishing  for big sailfish, tuna, marlin, swordfish and wahoo just a few hundred metres off shore from the boat launch at Flying Fish Cove. Back on land, cool off in the sandy-floored pool beneath a sunlit cave entrance at the Grotto, just a 10-minute drive from the Settlement. Enjoy an authentic Chinese meal at Lucky Ho outdoor restaurant in Poon Saan, and, if it's a Saturday, take in an evening movie under the warm, tropical sky at the  Outdoor Cinema .

Day 6: Christmas Island

Lily Beach, Christmas Island © Inger Van Dyke, Christmas Island Tourism

Pack a picnic and drive nine kilometres (six miles) to white coral Lily Beach, one of the island's most accessible and protected beaches, surrounded on both sides by cliffs. At low tide explore the rock pools or swim into the deeper blue water. After lunch stroll the 1.5-kilometre (0.9-mile) limestone karst-lined boardwalk to Ethel Beach. Along the way you'll likely see lots of nesting brown boobies with their fluffy white chicks at close range. These adorable birds are relatively unafraid of humans (and accustomed to cameras), so quietly snap some photos of this rare birdlife encounter, then hop back in your car and take the 20-kilometre (12.5-mile) drive to South Point. This once-thriving community of phosphate mine workers is now a ghost town, but you can see the historic railway station here and visit the Soon Tien Kong Temple, which islanders still visit to practise Chinese Taoism. Stay to catch the sunset before returning to Settlement and enjoy dinner at  Rumah Tinggi Bar and Grill . It's an upmarket restaurant housed in a heritage building on the oceanfront.

Day 7: Christmas Island

West White Beach, Christmas Island © Erica Harrison, Christmas Island Tourism

Pack a picnic lunch and drive the 30-minute 4WD track towards West White Beach on a tour with  Indian Ocean Experiences . From the car it's a solid one-hour walk with a short cliff descent (rope provided) to reach this secluded long beach edged by a series of rock pools, but well worth it. This is one of the most remote beaches on Earth, where few feet have stood. Make the most of the silence by beachcombing, watching the rock pools for tiny blenny fish that play, mate and chase each other, or watching the crabs that run to and fro in the wash. 

Day 8: Christmas Island to Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Direction Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands © Cocos Keeling Islands Tourism Association

This afternoon you're flying to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands , so spend your morning doing some last minute shopping for Christmas Island art at the  Wild Papaya  gallery, and shopping for souvenirs at the  Visitor Information Centre  before boarding your 90-minute flight. You'll disembark directly onto the Cocos runway, in the middle of the West Island  golf course  – your first clue that the Cocos (Keeling) Islands are rather unusual. An almost perfect circular atoll of 27 islands, each blanketed with coconut palms and surrounded by white sand beaches, Cocos, as it's known to locals, is home to only two inhabited islands:  Home Island  and West Island. The airport is on West Island. Check in to your accommodation at Cocos Castaway on West Island and have a sunset drink at the Cocos Club before dinner in the beach garden at Tropika Restaurant, which serves a terrific buffet each night.

Day 9: Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Home Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands © Cocos Keeling Islands Tourism Association

On the opposite side of the atoll to West Island you'll find Home Island, where a small, unique indigenous population of about 450 Cocos Malay people live. The Cocos Malay people are believed to have been settled here in 1826 – as slaves and members of the harem of Alexander Hare, an English explorer – from various parts of Asia, predominantly Malaysia and Indonesia. Today, the Cocos Malay people speak a mixture of English, Malay and Cocos Malay, practise Sunni Islam and maintain their own unique dress code. A two-hour  cultural tour  of Home Island – only 20 minutes by ferry from West Island – offers fascinating insight into the way these friendly locals live. Discover Cocos Malay traditions, try basket weaving, learn a few Cocos Malay words and visit the museum. Cultural tours take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; the restaurant is open for lunch daily and dinner only on Wednesdays. You might consider timing your trip to the Cocos (Keeling) islands to coincide with the Hari Raya Puasa celebrations that mark the end of the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan, when visitors are invited to join locals in wandering from house to house in the Home Island streets, partaking in celebratory open feasts.

Day 10: Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Cocos Dive, Cocos (Keeling) Islands © Cocos Keeling Islands Tourism Association

On nearby  Direction Island  you'll find Cossies Beach, which, with its creamy white sands, palm-fringed edges and bright blue water, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. To get here, take the 30-minute ferry from West Island to Direction Island (Thursdays and Saturdays only) and orient yourself on the fascinating three-kilometre (1.9-mile) walk around the island. You'll find plaques describing the island's history, including the sinking of SMS Emden, a German ship, during the Battle of Cocos in World War I. Cossies Beach is also home to one of the islands' best land-based drift snorkels, the Rip, in which you can drift above corals, giant trevally, turtles, parrot fish, reef sharks and more. Hire snorkelling gear and receive a detailed brief on snorkelling the Rip before you board the ferry, back at West Island's Visitor Centre, or wait until day 12 when you'll snorkel the Rip with a guide on your dive excursion. This afternoon, join the locals for the Thursday afternoon game on the nine-hole golf course, the only golf course in the world located on an international runway. Then enjoy dinner at  Maxi's by the Sea .

Day 11: Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Motorised outrigger canoe safari, West Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands © Cocos Keeling Islands Tourism Association

West Island is home to a relatively small population (about 100 people), but there's plenty to see and do. Start today with a takeaway coffee or chai latte from  Maxi's by the Sea , then embark on a motorised outrigger canoe safari exploring the southern islands of the huge lagoon, where you'll see lots of marine life including turtles, dolphins and tropical fish. The four to five-hour tour departs at different times each day (depending on the tide). You may find yourself enjoying a Champagne breakfast on a floating pontoon, learning about the islands’ history and culture, going snorkelling, strolling on deserted beaches, exploring some of the uninhabited islands and viewing turtle breeding sites. It is estimated there are 30,000 green and hawksbill turtles living in the middle of the atoll. Walk out to the end of West Island's town jetty on the north of the island in the late afternoon to see dozens of them swimming in the shallows. Have dinner this evening at the Flying Fish Cafe (located next to the Cocos Club), which serves fresh-out-of-the-sea tropical fish such as coral trout and sweet lip.

Day 12: Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Kitesurfing, West Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands © Cocos Keeling Islands Tourism Association

The waters around Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a diver's paradise, and today you'll experience this first-hand on a dive with  Cocos Dive . There are more than 25 different dive sites around the atoll, including some with shipwrecks and historical artillery. Marine life that you might encounter includes sea fans, sea anemones, soft corals, black corals, manta rays, dolphins, sharks, moray eels, nudibranches, parrot fish, wrasse, and if you are lucky, the Cocos pygmy angelfish. You may also see Kat, the only dugong to make Cocos his permanent home; he arrived several years ago and has never left. After you've finished your morning dives you'll stop at Direction Island to enjoy a light lunch at Cossies Beach and a relaxed snorkel at the Rip with your guide before enjoying another dive. At the end of your day you'll be returned to West Island. Head to Tropika Restaurant to enjoy another buffet dinner of Cocos Malay and Western dishes.

Day 13: Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Stand-up paddle boarding, Cocos Keeling Islands © Cocos Keeling Islands Tourism Association

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands is one of the best kitesurfing locations in Australia. If you are visiting when the south-east trade winds are blowing, from July to October, join a  kitesurfing clinic . Beginners can learn all the basic safety techniques in flat shallow water, where you can simply stand up if you fall over, while more experienced kitesurfers can practise how to jump higher and do back and front rolls. If it's not kitesurfing season, try your hand at fishing – you can buy hooks and handlines at the Visitor Centre, where you'll also be provided with tips on the best spots to fish that day. Alternatively, dedicated fly fishers will be pleased to know this is one of the best places on Earth to practise bonefish fly fishing. December to March is peak season for this, but fish can be caught all year round. Simply bring your own equipment and you can fish from the shore. As the day moves towards its end, head to "the old jetty", on the north end of West Island, where you can usually spot a variety of larger marine animals swimming around its base, including giant trevally, reef sharks, manta rays and lots of turtles. If you've managed to catch anything, cook your catch for dinner at one of the barbecues at Trannies Beach, the Spot Beach or the Gun Club Beach - there are free public barbecues at almost every beach on West Island, but these three offer great views of the setting sun each day. Alternatively, enjoy the locals' Sunday special at the Cocos Club – it might be pizza, hamburgers or something else altogether.

Day 14: Cocos (Keeling) Islands

West Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands © Rik Soderlund, Cocos Keeling Islands Tourism Association

Spend your final day exploring West Island at your own speed. Most accommodation offers bicycles, but if you prefer you can hire a car or scooter from Cocos Autos Car Hire in town. Next, head to the Visitor Centre to hire some snorkelling gear, then set out for the day: West Island is just 14 kilometres (nine miles) in length and ringed with beaches worth exploring. As you make your way to the northern end of the island, be sure to stop at Trannies Beach or Pulu Maria Beach, both of which have shallow reefs that are perfect for using your snorkel. The Big Barge Art Centre is a community art space that is a work of art itself. It's housed inside a restored wooden copra boat, and inside you'll find the work of local artists that you can admire and buy if you so wish. Owner and artist Emma Washer offers regular art classes here, though you'll need to  pre-arrange  one. Afterwards, return to town for a final drink at Cocos Club, where you can toast the sunset one last time and vow to return.

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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Cocos (Keeling) Islands

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Orientation
• 1.3 Climate
• 1.4 Landscape
• 1.5 Tourist information
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By boat
• 3 Get around
• 12 Stay safe
• 13 Stay healthy

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The Cocos (Keeling) Islands (Cocos Malay: Pulu Kokos (Keeling) , Malay Wilayah Kepulauan Cocos (Keeling) ) or simply Cocos Islands or Keeling Islands are a chain of islands in two adjacent atolls, in the middle of the Indian Ocean some 2,750 km northwest of Perth , and around 900 km west-southwest of Christmas Island . The islands are generally considered to be the southernmost point of Asia.

The Cocos Islands lie approximately 12° south and 96.5° east, locating the islands in the humid tropical zone.

The Cocos Islands are 1.5 hours behind Western Australia Time and 3.5 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) on standard time; they do not observe daylight saving time.

The islands are remote – they're closer to New Delhi , Taipei , Muscat or Antananarivo than they are to Canberra.

There are 27 coral islands in the group. Captain William Keeling discovered the islands in 1609, but they remained uninhabited until the 19th century. Annexed by the UK in 1857, the archipelago was administered from Ceylon and then later the Colony of Singapore before the territory was transferred to the Australian Government from the Colony of Singapore in 1955. The population on the two inhabited islands generally is split between the ethnic Europeans on West Island and the ethnic Malays on Home Island although the Malay population is significantly larger than the European.

Grown throughout the islands, coconuts are the sole cash crop. Small local gardens and fishing contribute to the food supply, but additional food and most other necessities must be imported from Australia. There is a small tourist industry.

The people who live on the Cocos Islands are mostly the ethnic Cocos Malay people, whose ancestors were from either Peninsular Malaysia, Indonesia, parts of Southern Africa or New Guinea and were brought over as slaves or convicts. Since 2019, they have been seeking approval for "Indigenous Status".

Orientation

There are two inhabited islands in the group, West Island and Home Island. West Island is the capital of the territory with about 120 inhabitants. It is mostly an English-speaking area with the most tourist facilities, a clinic and an airstrip. The largest village is Bantam on Home Island with a population of around 448 (2021), most of whom follow Sunni Islam and speak the Cocos dialect of the Malay language .

The other islands in the archipelago are uninhabited. Horsburgh Island and South Island are among the larger uninhabited islands. Direction Island, a true island paradise, is connected by ferry every Saturday. It includes a beach that's been identified as the best beach in Australia. Finally, there's North Keeling Island , a national park approximately 50 km north of the other islands. Access to this island is only allowed with permission from Parks Australia.

The Cocos Islands experience two main seasons which tend to overlap: the trade wind season from April/May to September/October and the calmer doldrum season from November through to April. Expect higher rainfall during March through to July. January through to August may also generate the occasional low pressure system (usually between February and April). However these systems do not normally interfere with holiday plans. Rain usually falls in the evenings, bringing glorious sunny days. The average annual rainfall is 2,000 mm. Temperatures are fairly consistent no matter what the season, remaining around a comfortable 29°C with a minimum evening temperature rarely dropping below 20°C.

Flat, low-lying coral atolls, thickly covered with coconut palms and other vegetation.

Tourist information

• -12.188668 96.830114 1 Cocos Keeling Islands Visitor Centre , Air Force Road, Keeling Island , ☏ +61 8 9162 6790 , fax : +61 8 9162 6696 , [email protected] . M 8AM–5PM, Tu-Th 8AM–2:30PM, F 8AM–4PM, Sa (early flight) 1–4PM, Sa (late flight) 2–5PM, closed Su & public holidays .  

As the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is an Australian territory, the entry requirements for Australia apply. Bring the needed documentation.

There is an airport on West Island. Virgin Australia has two scheduled triangle flights weekly between Perth , Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. Flights between Perth and the Islands may include a technical stop at RAAF Learmonth (LEA) en route to refuel. Clockwise service operates on Saturdays and anticlockwise service operates on Tuesdays. One-way flights range in price from $531 to $909, with advance purchase returns available for $1054.

Yachts can dock at the Cocos Islands. Bring required documents. Because of their remoteness and infrequency of boats, all arriving yachts must send a notice to Customs at latest four days (96 hr) before arrival, radio police (VHF channel 20) when arriving, drop anchor at the anchorage at Direction Island, display the yellow 'quarantine' flag, radio again, and await the police. See the required procedures [ dead link ] .

A local bus service from West Island Settlement to the jetty operates approximately 20 minutes prior to the departure of the ferry to Home Island and costs $0.50. The best place to catch the bus is in fact not the designated bus stop on Sydney Highway opposite the airport, as the bus doesn't always go by there. Instead, follow airport employees to the park just north of the terminal at the far end of Alexander Street, and wait on the bench in the shaded area.

On Saturday the ferry diverts to Direction Island to allow tourists and locals access to this remote paradise. The ferry returns in the afternoon to return you to West Island. The fee is $2.50. Timetables are available from the Tourism office or the Duty Free Shop.

• A Car Rental , ☏ +61 8 9162-7646 . Contact Geof Christie for availability and rates .  
• Cocos Autos , Bantam Village , ☏ +61 8 9162-7661 . Cocos Autos offers an extensive and diverse range of vehicles. Choose from Dual and Single Cab Utes, Dual Cab 4WDs or a 17-seater bus. Baby seats and booster seats are also available.  
• AW & KJ James Car Hire , ☏ +61 8 9162-7717 . Contact Ash or Kylie for availability and rates.  
• Cocos Surf Shop , In the Airport Complex , ☏ +61 8 9162-6768 .  

The main language is Cocos Malay, not English. However, almost all the locals (other than some elderly people) can speak English, enough for communication, and most people on the West Island are English-speaking.

Take cultural tours with some of the local tour operators or guide yourself around the islands to explore why they call the Cocos Islands a "nature and water lover's paradise".

During the year, as well as the traditional events such as Easter, New Year, Christmas, the Cocos host a number of unique events. These include the annual Lagoon swim, where competitors swim from Home Island across the lagoon to West Island. Individuals or teams may enter and whether you are a serious contender or wish to join in with the Hash House Harriers (who always seem to get themselves disqualified for one thing or another), everyone has a load of fun. It finishes in the evening with dinner and presentations to the winners and boat drivers.

Other unique events are the mid-year Cocos Ball, quiz nights, Music & Wine festival, Ardmona Cup and Cocos Olympics. All visitors are encouraged to join in with these festivities and activities. Dates vary from year to year. Please check with the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association before booking for events.

Visitors to the island are also welcome to participate in the School Fete, Sports Carnival and concert events.

• Cocos Diving , ☏ +61 8 9162 6515 , [email protected] . $200-2320 .  
• 2nd Wind Sailboards . July through to September only . Watersport holidays. Windsurfing, SUP'ing, kiting.  
• Cocos Islands Golf Club . Thursdays . Play the most westerly golf course in Australia that also includes an international runway! Locals and visitors meet every Thursday afternoon for a friendly game of "Scroungers" (Ambrose). Be at the Donga (next to the West Island Supermarket) at 3:30PM. All adults are more than welcome, club hire is available and a full bar. You won't play this kind of golf anywhere else in the world, not to be missed!  

Being an external territory of Australia, the currency used on the islands is the Australian dollar .

As most supplies are shipped by boat or air only a few times per month, everything is on the limited and pricier side. Make sure to bring all your necessities before coming in. If you are bringing in vegetables or fruits, present your receipt to the customs.

• Supermarket , Clunies-Ross Avenue , ☏ +61 8 9162 6676 , fax : +61 8 9162 7605 . West Island: M-F 8AM-4PM, Sa 8:30AM-4PM. Home Island: M Tu Th F 7:30AM-4PM; W 7:30AM-6PM; Sa 8AM-3:30PM; Su 8AM-1PM . Last-minute shopping for whatever you need. Fresh breads on Tuesdays and Fridays.  
• -12.1885 96.8295 1 Community Resource Centre , Administration Building, West Island , ☏ +61 8 9162 7707 , [email protected] . M-F 8AM-3PM, Sa 10AM-4PM, Su 9AM-noon . It provides internet access and printing facilities. Mobile phones are available for hire and wireless vouchers for your laptops. Come in for a coffee and check your emails, get some information, grab a tide chart or take home a classic Cocos Calendar.  
• Australia Post , 60 Sydney Hwy, West Island , ☏ +61 8 9162 6645 , fax : +61 8 9162 7500 .  

Malay cuisine is a selection of rice, noodles, curry and chilli, featuring chicken, beef, lamb and seafood dishes. Food is prepared to be flavoursome and not particularly hot, unless requested.

• -12.1883 96.8285 1 Tropika ( on West Island in the Cocos Beach Motel ), ☏ +61 8 9162 6672 . Seafood & Western meals.  
• -12.11683 96.894373 2 Rasa Di Sayang , Bantam, Home Island ( on Home Island in the small business centre ), ☏ +61 8 9162 7633 . W F 6:30-8PM by booking, check Facebook page for special opening times . Classical Malay fare from where the Cocos Malay lives.  
• -12.189499 96.829756 3 Dory's Cafe , William Keeling Drive, West Island , ☏ +61 8 9162 7646 . M-F 8:30AM-1PM, Su 8:30-11AM, open for dinner Th 5:30-7:30PM . Eat a hearty breakfast or a light dessert, or just drop by for a cup of coffee. Opens for dinner on Thursdays. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• -12.188258 96.8291 4 Salty's Grill & Bakery ( Salty's Fish & Chips ), Cocos (Keeling) Islands Airport, West Island ( at the airport's terminal ), ☏ +61 8 9162 7716 . Tu-Fr 7AM-1PM, closed all other days . Bakery and restaurant. Restaurant specials: Sunday: pizza; Tuesday: sushi, pizza and Malay food; Thursday: kebab rolls and chips; Friday: gish, chips and salad night,; Saturday: grilled burger and chips. ( updated Jan 2022 )

Don't want to eat at a restaurant? Usually, every third Friday, the different social clubs of Cocos prepare a "food night" at the Cocos Club. Excellently priced meals are offered along with raffles and good-natured fun. Come along, share a meal. The Cocos Club also offers visitors a great venue to get to know the locals and join in with any activity that is happening.

• WICK Cafe , West Island ( across the street from Coco's Club ). Opens Friday nights and flight days between departure and arrival time . Famous for its fish and chips on Friday nights, in addition to Singaporean and Malay cuisine. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• -12.188 96.8289 1 Cocos Club , Sydney Hwy, West Island , ☏ +61 8 9162 6688 . Sa-Th 5-10PM, F 5PM-midnight . Offering parmigiana, burgers, and pizzas on some nights. A place to hang out with the locals and daily nighttime activities. Alcohol are duty free but the price erases out the advantage compared to the mainland. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• The Breakers Cocos ( on West Island ), ☏ +61 8 9162-7711 , [email protected] . 10 Self-contained Bungalow style rooms. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• -12.187695 96.827951 1 Cocos Beach Motel , Sydney Highway, West Island , ☏ +61 8 9162-6702 , fax : +61 8 9162 6764 , [email protected] . This 28-room motel is in the middle of town, on the beach, across the road from the Cocos Club and airport, and a short walk to the supermarket. Many of the rooms have direct views to the Indian Ocean. Ideally suited to couples, singles or twin. Private en suite and air conditioned. Three family rooms are available. On site restaurant: The Tropika. $100-160 .  
• Cocos Cottages , ☏ +61 8 9244-3801 , fax : +61 8 9244-3802 , [email protected] . Architecturally designed cottages, purpose-built tourist accommodation, overlooking the golf course and the lagoon. They offer spacious bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, large undercover deck areas and on site BBQ area. Located within easy walking distance of the supermarket, Cocos Club, tennis courts, golf club, restaurants and other facilities.  
• Cocos Castaway , ☏ +61 8 9162-6515 , [email protected] . $210–390 .  
• Home Island Mosque ( Masjid Pulu Selma ), Jalan Raya, Home Island . 24 hours . Mosque ( updated Jan 2022 )
• -12.1864 96.8282 2 West Island Mosque ( Masjid Pulu Panjang ). 24 hours . Heritage-listed mosque ( updated Jan 2022 )
• Cyclone season is October to April, but tropical rain may affect the area at anytime. When inclement weather happens, staying inside is your safest bet.

Stay healthy

Fresh water resources are limited to rainwater accumulations in natural underground reservoirs.

Respect Ramadan , although unlike in some other countries, the locals won't really mind you eating in public.

When visiting Home Island, make sure to dress appropriately with your shoulders and knees covered, but also don't overdo it – make sure you're comfortable, as the tropical sun can burn you out. It's also customary to seek permission before photographing the locals. You also cannot enter the Home Island Mosque without being accompanied by a Muslim.

Mobile phone connections are by a satellite link. Unless you bring your own satellite phone or long-range radio, you need to use the local rather expensive Wi-Fi. Most modern mobile phones allow you to use Wi-Fi for calls by a simple settling, given your provider offers VoIP service for you. You could also install your own Internet telephony app. Mobile phones are available for hire.

You might want to turn off updates and any non-necessary traffic during your stay. Because of the hassle and expensive price, you might want to just go offline.

Cellphones for hire and Wi-Fi vouchers are available from the Community Resource Centre [ dead link ] . The Wi-Fi vouchers costs $6.95 per hour, $19.95 per day, or $64.95 per week (check limits on data volumes), or $10/1GB or $25/5GB valid for a fortnight. These can be used at hotspots islands-wide. Mobile phone for-hire are $10/day, $35/week, $60/2 weeks or $100/month.

It is wise to pre-book your phone or voucher by emailing the community centre at [email protected] , so that you can retrieve them at your accommodation in case of a flight delay, instead of waiting for next office hours.

• The only flight out from Cocos is to Christmas Island , where the plane refuels for its continuing trip to Perth in mainland Australia
• Daring yachties would venture out further into the Indian Ocean , possibly crossing into Africa or hopping on to neighbouring Indonesia .

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A Guide to Australia’s Cocos (Keeling) Islands – It’s More Than Coconuts

Julia D'Orazio

Julia D’Orazio is a travel writer based in Perth, Australia. Besides happily eating her way in over 70 countries, she counts Eurovision and scuba diving as her two greatest loves. Julia has also been featured in publications worldwide including Traveller, New York Post, Rough Guides, News.com.au, Travel Africa magazine and more.

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Amy Fairall

As the Editor, if you read WAE, you've more than likely read something Amy's written. Amy lives on Larrakia land in the NT and is frequently on the hunt for new bodies of freshwater to dunk herself into. She has a preference for adventures slightly off the beaten track, with a penchant for multi-day hikes and a new found love of paddling.

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Cocos (Keeling) Islands is Australia’s most remote territory, covering a mere 14km² in the Indian Ocean, and is closer to Indonesia than mainland Australia. The blend of holidaymakers and Cocos Malay culture makes the idyllic islands a unique destination to explore at your own pace.

Jump to Section

About cocos (keeling) islands.

‘Postcard-perfect’ gets thrown around a lot, but the description is apt when exploring Cocos (Keeling) Islands. The under-explored paradise is sprawled across 27 low-lying islands in the shape of a necklace, formed by coral atolls. Most are covered with coconut palms and fringed by golden beaches and all shades of blue waters.

Below the surface, its warm waters are abundant with marine life and colourful reefs.

will leave you in disbelief!

The islands remain largely untouched, with only two out of 27 islands inhabited by around 600 people. West Island is where holidaymakers descend, with room for only 144 visitors at any time. The island’s hub includes an information centre, three casual eateries with outdoor dining, bars, and one supermarket.

Cocos is hardly a bustling place, which makes it so appealing: it’s unruffled, exudes laidback charms, and is easy to get around.

You’ll enjoy the slow, tropical rhythm

Cocos’ other main island, Home, is the heart of Malay culture. It’s reached via a 30-minute ferry from West Island. The village is home to 450 residents, with locals getting around by golf carts, dining out at two eateries, and practising religion at a local mosque.

But what do locals do for fun? Gratification is found in nature – and of course, some ‘toys’ help to aid that. Scuba diving , snorkelling , kayaking , e-biking, fishing , and golf are some local pastimes in the ‘lagoon’.

Cocos (Keeling) Islands History

There’s a good reason behind the islands’ fruitful name…

It’s believed that Captain William Keeling was the first European to sight the islands in 1609 while en route from the Dutch East Indies. But it wasn’t until the 19th century that the islands were settled. After a brief visit, Scottish trader Captain John Clunies Ross decided to call the islands his home.

He moved with his family to settle the islands in 1827. The family, dubbed the King of Cocos, ruled the islands for over 150 years. They were at the helm of the island’s principal industry source – coconuts – mainly exporting to South East Asia.

Look how many coconuts we had to dodge on this track

Cocos became an Australian territory in 1955, with Australia purchasing all the land – except the Clunies Ross family home – in 1978. The United Nations stepped in in 1984 when the Cocos-Malay population voted to become Australian citizens. Since then, Cocos has been headed by the Australian Government.

How to Get to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Virgin Australia operates two flights weekly – on Tuesday and Friday – from Perth. Flights are under five hours, with the outbound flight stopping at Exmouth to refuel.

Bye Perth, hello paradise | Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association

It’s possible to double dip on the island getaway with flights stopping at Christmas Island too, making it the perfect opportunity to explore Australia’s distant territories.

Read more: Top Tips For Travelling Faster (and Comfier!) With Carry-On Only

Getting Around Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Although considered a relatively small island at 10km2, hiring a car is the best way to get around the West Island.

A handful of car hire operators are on the island, with prices starting from $85 per day.

Jump in the car and get ready to go troppo | Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association

Essential Gear for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands

• Reusable water bottle
• Electrolytes
• Marine-friendly sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent
• Fishing rod

Read more:  Remember to leave no trace!

Island life calls for a very specific packing list…

…which is anything to help you get underwater

Where to Stay in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands have a few accommodation options on both islands, however, most options are located on West Island. Resorts, high-rises, there’s none to be found here. Cocos can only accommodate 144 people at any given time, with most options simple digs.

Cocos Cottages

Cost per night : $400 per night (max five guests) Suitable for : Couples, families, friends Facilities : Fully self-contained cottages with two bedrooms, kitchenette, bathroom with washing machine and outdoor seating

The comfortably modish Cocos Cottages overlooks the runway and golf course and is a short stroll to West Island’s hub.

Cost per night : $310 per night (two guests) Suitable for : Couples Facilities : Fully self-contained bungalows with kitchenette, bathroom, and outdoor deck. Guests have access to shared laundry, BBQs, and sporting equipment

Treat yourself to a plush island getaway with a stay at the West Island’s Breakers. Moments from the airport, the accommodation offers ten bungalows surrounded by tropical gardens.

Cocos Kampong Homestay

Cost per night : $160 per night (two guests) Suitable for : Couples Facilities : Choose between a master or twin bedrooms. Rooms can be combined to offer a three-bedroom stay.

Immerse yourself in Cocos Malay culture with a homestay on Home Island. The simple accommodation offers bedrooms with bathrooms and access to a private lounge and kitchenette. Traditional Cocos Malay cuisine is available upon request.

Looking for something different? Check out more accommodation options on Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

You’ll be sleeping among the coconut trees | Photo by Karen Wilshaw

Where to Eat in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Indecision on where to eat out doesn’t really exist in Cocos. There are a handful of eateries available across the islands. With most options available on the West Island, here are the best places to eat.

West Island

Surfer Girl Brewery

Chase good vibes at Surfer Girl Brewery. Sit in the alfresco area to watch an ocean sunset and enjoy its themed cuisine nights. The brewery is open Monday to Thursday and from 7.30am Sunday for weekend brekky. Book a table on the signage board outside the restaurant.

Horizons and watery sunsets around here are endless | Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association

Salty’s Bakery + Grill 

Head to the hole-in-the-wall takeout for a hearty feed. It’s open Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday nights, offering daily specials such as stone-grilled pizzas, locally caught fish and chips, and Indonesian-inspired cuisine.

Need a morning pick-me-up? The eatery has got you covered with coffee, toasties, and other delicious baked goodies available from 7.30am.

The Big Barge Art Centre & Sula Sula Servery Café 

The island’s most quirky café comes in the form of a beautifully restored barge. The multi-purpose boat is an art gallery, souvenir store, and coffee shop in palm tree coastal surroundings. The Big Barge Art Centre has multiple areas to enjoy a cuppa or iced tea – think swinging chairs, boat decking or under the trees – and watch the waves slowly roll in.

The café is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays only, 9am – 11am.

For an authentic taste of the islands, head to Tropika , opposite Cocos Club. The eatery serves Halal-certified Cocos Malay and Aussie bites with indoor and outdoor seating. It’s open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Make sure to check out the $12 lunch specials to save some coins.

Join in local revelry at Cocos Club . Open every day from 5pm, the no-frills bar is the hub of all social happenings after a day out on the big blue. Grab a drink at Happy Hour (5:30-6:30pm) and mingle with locals in the outdoor undercover area. If you’re feeling peckish, grab a takeaway from Salty’s Bakery + Grill and Tropika and eat it on premise.

There’s a bottle shop onsite selling duty-free alcohol and spirits if you prefer to make the most of your island accommodation.

Home Island

Features a bunch of other eateries including:

• Seafront Restaurant Pop-up
• Kampong Café & Restaurant
• Shamrocks Supermarket
• Co-Op Supermarket

The Big Barge Art Centre on the West Island

Things to do in Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Cocos (Keeling) Islands is hardly a place to stay idle. Get active both on land and in the water, discovering its colourful universe moments with these activities to do in Cocos.

Cocosday Fishing & Boat Tours

One of the best things to do in Cocos is to hop on a boat. But instead of a tour, why not steer the boat yourself? Besides offering fishing and boat tours, Cocosday also offers dinghy hire with no skipper ticket required.

Cruise around the south end of the lagoon and take your pick of the island to relax and snorkel offshore.

The water’s so clear you’ll know what’s taking the bait! | Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association

It’s better to get to know Cocos’ underwater residents by scissor-kicking alongside them. The island’s only dive centre, Cocos Dive , offers dive trips in the famed lagoon, home to clear, warm waters and pristine and vivid reefs. Let dive instructor Dieter Gerhard show you around soaring coral gardens. Feast on a picnic lunch at Direction Island, where you can also attempt to snorkel the famous drift snorkel, The Rip.

In between dives, there’s even a chance to swim alongside Manta rays (they’re easy to spot in clear waters!), making it an exceptional day out at sea.

Read more:  A Beginner’s Guide to Scuba Diving

It’s the best way to explore the underwater wonders

Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association

Ferry to Direction Island

A public ferry journeys across the lagoon to the local playground, Direction Island, twice weekly – Thursday and Friday – from West Island and Home Island. The island has an eco-toilet, wood-fired BBQs, walking trails, and shaded picnic tables. It costs $5 for a return ticket with only one departure and return time available.

The island is perfect for lazing on the sand or completing the drift snorkel, as the rip passes over an underwater ridge teeming with marine life.

Please note : Only confident swimmers should attempt to complete this drift snorkel, as its fast current can be dangerous.

Phat Tours Cocos

Explore the West Island on two wheels. Phat Tours Cocos offers E-bike tours and bicycle hire if you want to give your leg muscles a proper workout.

Bike 🤝 beach

Ossie’s Cultural Tour

Uncover Home Island’s unique Cocos Malay culture on a tour with local, Ossie. The Home Island and lunch tour includes a guided exploration around the main village and demonstrations of coconut husking and basket weaving.

Savour the taste of Cocos Malay cuisine with a meal prepared by locals and enjoyed along the foreshore.

Witnessing magic being weaved

What It’s Like to Visit the Cocos (Keeling) Islands

It’s easy to fall in love with the unique laidback lifestyle of Cocos (Keeling) Islands. And even though it’s technically part of Australia, it has its quirks that make it different from visiting any other domestic destination via flight. Visitors must bring their passports and complete an immigration form upon arrival in case of a forced emergency landing in Jakarta.

You’ll also quickly realise how safe and trustworthy island locals are. For car rentals, it’s advised to leave your key in the vehicle. This avoids losing the key, a headache for all to get a spare sent to the island!

You’ll go nuts for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Tips For Visiting the Cocos (Keeling) Islands

• The Cocos (Keeling) Islands only have accommodation for 144 people at any time; therefore, booking accommodation when booking flights is strongly encouraged
• The minimum stay is four nights, followed by seven nights due to flight timings. I recommend staying at least seven, as you’ll quickly realise just how much of a paradise Cocos really is!
• West Island’s only supermarket has a limited grocery range and prices are more expensive than on the mainland due to freight costs, so it’s advised to bring your own groceries as it’ll also help maintain local food supplies

FAQs of Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Do australians need a passport for cocos (keeling) islands.

Technically Aussies don’t need to bring a passport as it’s an external territory of Australia. However, it is strongly advised that you do and complete an immigration form upon arrival in case of a forced emergency landing in Jakarta.

What is the best time of year to go to Cocos (Keeling) Islands?

The dry season, May to October, could be a great time to visit as it’s more likely to be sunny with cooler temps and lower humidity (less chance of cyclones too!).

What language do they speak in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands?

The main spoken languages on Cocos (Keeling) Islands are Cocos Malay and English.

How many people live on Cocos (Keeling) Islands?

According to the 2021 Census , about 600 people inhabit the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

Julia D’Orazio was a guest of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association .

Feature photo by Ryan Chatfield & Table of Contents photo by Karen Wilshaw

This piece was brought to you by a real living human who felt the wind in their hair and described their adventure in their own words. This is because we rate authenticity and the sharing of great experiences in the natural world – it’s all part of our ethos here at We Are Explorers. You can read more about it in our Editorial Standards .

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MORE EXPERIENCES

14 things you didn’t know about Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Journalist + Photographer

08 February 2024

Flip open a map of Australia, wave a magnifying glass some 2,700 km north-west of Perth and you’ll find Cocos (Keeling) Islands glistening in the Indian Ocean.

Look closer: twenty-seven sand-smudged islands don’t so much leap from the ocean, as lay luxuriating in blissful blue-gem waters.

One of only three external Australian territories, reached by a 4.5-hour flight from Perth International Airport, little-known Cocos (Keeling) Islands is set to snag a slot in the nation’s top ten secluded islands chart.

Arm yourself with a knowledge of the rich history before heading on your Cocos (Keeling) island holiday, then wrap yourself in Cocos’ balmy days, far from the madding crowds.

1. Tiny islands, tiny population

Welcome to Cocos, a perfect arc of pristine islands. Covering a mere 14.2 sq km, this pocket-sized destination is slightly larger than Los Angeles International Airport, though, happily, with far less people.

Only two of the 27 islands, West Island – the main tourist hub, and Home Island – the cultural hub, are inhabited with a population of around 600.

It’s where travellers flick on the off-grid button and reconnect to the natural world around them.

If people-watching is on your agenda, look elsewhere. But if the great Greta Garbo’s whimsy, “I want to be alone” tops your holiday agenda, you’ve found the ultimate landing place.

Cocos’ deserted beaches skirt isles where silken sand slips into a crystal-clear ocean created for downtime. Don your snorkel, pack your beach bag, and add a good read – tranquillity is just the throw of a sand-ball away.

Enjoy true solitude on your Cocos (Keeling) island holiday. (Image: Lynn Gail)

2. There’s history to Home Island’s call to prayer

Catch the local ferry – Cahaya Baru – from West to Home Island. On arrival, listen for the soulful Islamic call to prayer coming from the village mosque. It will give you a sense of the Cocos Malay’s peaceful existence, but it wasn’t always so.

Back in 1826, slaves, mostly of Malay descent, were transported over by Alexander Hare, a British sea merchant and known womaniser, to work in the islands’ coconut plantations. Conditions were tough, living quarters basic, food rationed, hours long and laborious.

Hare, and Scottish sea captain John Clunies-Ross, ruled the settlements and plantations until a fierce rivalry between the two resulted in Hare being forced off the islands.

Influenced by both Asian and Scottish traditions, and cut off from the world at large, the Cocos Malay developed their own dialect.

They even had their own, but worthless currency, which is now displayed in the Pulu Cocos Museum, located in the island’s quiet Malaysian Kampong.

Listen for the soulful Islamic call. (Image: Lynn Gail)

3. The only place in the world you can walk around an entire atoll

If you have time for a little pre-planning and a spare eight hours up your Cocos (Keeling) island holiday sleeve, talk to the Visitor Centre team on West Island about how to island walk, between Islands.

You’ll need to catch the ferry to Home Island – the service runs several times a day. Start your walk around the horseshoe-shaped atoll near Home Island’s sailing club. It’s the only place in the world you can navigate an atoll on foot.

Depending on timing and conditions you may need guidance from a local operator and you’ll definitely want to let the Visitor Centre know when you’re heading off. The staff will give you directions and track your return.

Also, be sure to start at low tide as during high tide it’s impossible to wade through the ocean on foot.

Look out for black-tip reef sharks, turtles, and tropical fish as they play in the shallows. Just below the water’s surface, iridescent clams will open and shut as your shadow falls across their light-sensitive shells.

Beware, it’s 20km of uneven lagoon, rocky shores, and thick coconut forest. The stunning postcard scenery is well worth the long, salty sea-slog though.

Walk with the abundant marine life on Cocos (Keeling) Island holiday. (Image: Christmas Cocos Islands Tourism Association)

4. Queen Elizabeth II dropped by for lunch

Home Islanders have seen their fair share of hardship, but when Queen Elizabeth II and the late Duke of Edinburgh came to visit in 1954 – after the royal couple’s mainland tour of Australia – the Cocos Malays put on a grandiose welcome.

Everyone was invited to a garden party at Oceania House (the Clunies-Ross residence) where the Queen and Duke met the island’s oldest residents.

With Union Jack flags raised high and cultural dances performed on the streets, the royal couple were farewelled as they boarded the liner SS Gothic, to continue their world tour heading to Sri Lanka.

Chat with older residents on Home Island, and you’ll likely come across someone who remembers the day the royal couple stepped ashore.

It was such a momentous occasion; four Australian stamps were created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the historical event.

Receive a warm welcome from the small population. (Image: Lynn Gail)

5. Sink a hole-in-one across an international airport runway

For such a pin-sized destination, Cocos packs several ‘world-only’ experiences into its welcome-to-paradise itinerary.

The Cocos Keeling Island golf club boasts the only course in the world with an international runway. Join friendly club-swinging locals, and play Scroungers Golf on a Thursday afternoon.

The West Islanders will assist with your wardrobe too (thongs, t-shirt, boardies) and show you the ropes – namely, where to pop a couple of cold ones between your golf clubs.

Your teammates will introduce you to the course’s ‘creative’ rules and have you chuckling all the way to the ninth hole. Stay for the winner announcements where there are signature Cocos Golf Club balls up for grabs.

Play golf across an international airport runway. (Image: Lynn Gail)

6. There’s almost no crime

With a handful of petty crimes tried throughout the year by a judge who comes across from mainland Australia, Cocos is rare indeed.

Police officers lucky enough to receive a two-year posting to the two-man police station rarely reach for their incident logbook.

Residents leave doors unlocked in case neighbours call for the proverbial cup of sugar and keys are left in the ignition if anyone needs wheels. You won’t be judged for thinking you’re in a time warp, stepping back to trustier times.

7. Landing on Cocos is spectacular; and slightly scary

The pilot’s announcement: “Cabin crew, please be seated for landing,” will have you scanning the empty, turquoise-tinged ocean with one question, “Where, exactly?”

Rest assured, palm-fringed beaches come into view moments before you touchdown.

The airport has a history too. Due to Cocos’ position in the Indian Ocean, the exposed and unprotected islands became a target during World War II, necessitating the construction of a strategically placed air force base.

Fast forward to 1951 when Qantas, seeing the airport as a potential refuelling site, began using the base for flights crossing the Indian Ocean bound for South Africa.

The route went from Sydney to Perth, across to Cocos, onto Mauritius, and finally to Johannesburg.

Try not to panic and enjoy the view as you first glimpse the Cocos from your plane. (Image: Lynn Gail)

8. Why Keeling appears the islands’ name

Adventurer, explorer, and ambitious sea merchant Captain William Keeling discovered the idyllic islands whilst exploring the area for the trading outfit, East India Company, in 1609.

During his voyage from Java to England, Keeling didn’t view the islands as income generators and, after discovering the atolls, never claimed ownership.

He was on a mission to find tropical lands laden with spices and exotic wares to traffic for the East India Company. Tea, opium, silk, indigo, and even slaves, were on the company’s most sought-after items inventory.

9. Cocos sits atop a volcano

When you’re floating aimlessly around the palm-hemmed islets, take a moment to imagine how these glinting gems rose from the Indian Ocean.

The breathtaking isles sit atop an old volcanic seamount, rising some 5,000 metres from the ocean floor. Scientific studies show the islands are adolescents, between 3,000 and 4,000 years old.

When you consider Australia is home to the world’s oldest geological rock, dating back over 3,000 million years, Cocos is indeed the new kid on the block.

But only the strong survive – there is no lifeform when atolls forge, all animal and plant life must survive the ocean before becoming established.

In March 2022, Parks Australia declared the Cocos (Keeling) Islands marine park a protected area. So if you swim, snorkel, or dive, marvel at the many incredible species which have clung on to survive and thrive around the healthy reefs and in deeper ocean waters.

Spot clams while snorkelling the protected marine park. (Image: Lynn Gail)

10. A mermaid lives on Prison Island

Legend has it the Cocos Malay believe a mermaid lives on Prison Island and calls any Cocos-born islanders home if they leave her shores.

Alexander Hare’s hut stroke harem housed 40 Cocos Malay women on the island until they gradually escaped across the water to settle on Home Island.

Sadly, the picturesque isle is slowly being washed away by rising tides. What was once covered in swaying palms bearing hinged hammocks, is now a sandy mound.

Visit before it disappears and wonder how those island women survived there with so few comforts, serving one man.

The black-tip reef sharks gently riding the waves to shore will bring you back to its now serene surroundings.

Take in the sparkling waters and black-tip reef sharks surrounding Prison Island. (Image: Lynn Gail)

11. Who were the Kings of Cocos?

The Clunies-Ross family ruled the Cocos (Keeling) Islands for five generations, earning the title ‘Kings of Cocos’.

They built themselves a lavish stately mansion on 12-acres of botanical garden overlooking a lagoon. Furnished with palatial trimmings, Oceania House – with its seven-bedrooms, six-bathrooms, grand ballroom, and central spiral staircase – was completed in 1904, becoming a heritage-listed residence in 2004.

The Clunies-Ross family retained the land until 1993, when the two-storey home was sold to the Federal Government for $1.2m.

Avid historians and antique collectors, Avril and Lloyd Leist purchased the property some 20 years ago, restoring it to its former 19th-century glory. The couple turned the residence into a bed and breakfast, offering visitors a Victorian-themed stay.

The infamous property is now under new ownership, having recently changed hands again, with plans to refurbish the bed and breakfast. Book yourself in and meet the friendly ghosts reputed to roam the hallways at night.

Stay the night at Oceania House – the family home of the ‘Kings of Cocos’. (Image: Lynn Gail)

12. Two external territories are better than one

You’ve come all this way, so why not explore Christmas Island – Cocos’ nearest neighbour, a 1.5-hour flight away.

Unlike the gentle jewelled isles of Cocos, its jungle-clad landscape rises to 1,184 feet at its highest point.

The island is home to weird and wonderful creatures, and a birder’s paradise to boot. The famous Christmas Island red crab roams the craggy outcrop like they’re the Kings of Christmas. The huge resident robber crab can crack a coconut open with its powerful pincer claws.

If you go, check out the Chinese temples – Taoist and Buddhist pagodas are dotted throughout the easy-to-navigate forest. The views across the vast Indian Ocean, where some of the world’s best diving spots are located, will take your breath away.

Pop over to watch the crabs on Christmas Island’s Ethel Beach. (Image: Justin Gilligan)

13. Charles Darwin formed his theory of atoll formation here

After his voyage to Cocos on the HMS Beagle in 1836, Charles Darwin formed his theory of atoll formation.

Darwin believed volcanic islands that were subsiding in the Pacific Ocean would eventually create a coral atoll. During his visit to the tropical islands, he found evidence to support his theory and after returning to England his material was met with enthusiasm.

Six short years later he produced a book on coral reef formation.

Spend your Cocos (Keeling) island holiday pondering the world in a hammock. (Image: Lynn Gail)

14. Cocos featured in both WWI and WWII

For a minute land mass, Cocos has a measured history in the fact the islands were involved in both WWI and WWII.

During WWI the Royal Australian Navy saw its first victory at sea on the HMAS Sydney when they managed to sink the German ship, SMS Emden, in a surprise attack on 9 November 1914.

And in WWII Direction Island became the cable station and therefore a vital link for communication between the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.

Lynn Gail is a travel writer and photographer who supplies both Australian and international travel magazines with features she hopes take readers on immersive journeys. An intrepid traveller, she’s most at home sitting alongside indigenous cultures, learning age-old belief systems. With her photography, Lynn aims to capture an essence of her subjects through making a connection.

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one day i would like to holiday there please,

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Cocos Islands Adventure Tours Turtle Tours

Enjoy watching the islands' turtles from a motorised canoe. Kylie and Ash will show you the best spots to see and even swim with turtles. Water will be provided during the tour.

Tours are tide dependent therefore, times change daily. Please contact the Visitor Centre for confirmation of tour times. Or call into house 20 West Island.

All tours depart from house 20 on West Island. House 20 is close to all accommodation and facilities on West Island.

Cocos Islands Adventure Tours offer - Motorised Outrigger Canoe Tours, Kayak Hire, Stand-up paddleboard Hire, Car Hire, Personalised Catering, Weddings

Please note, to secure your booking full payment must be made within 7 days to receive a confirmed booking. If payment is not received, your booking will be cancelled.

Map & Directions

Cancellation policy.

Cancellations within 14 days of confirmed departure date incur 100% of rate. No penalty for amending dates/times due to change of flights.

Please ensure payment before tour commences.

Testimonials

It is rare, in this day and age, to come upon a place so delightful in both looks and temperament that, on the very first sighting, one’s jaw does genuinely drop. Georgia Rickard Australian Traveller

If going with the flow is how you roll, you will love the Cocos Keeling Islands. They have a small – very small – country town vibe. Your activities revolve around the exquisite lagoon whether they be snorkelling, diving, fishing, parasailing, or just relaxing under a coconut palm reading a book while inhaling the frangipani infused air Steve Klein Curious Campers

Scuba diving at Cocos Keeling islands is nothing short of spectacular. Fabulous visibility, pristine coral reefs, abundant marine life and all the trappings of a tropical paradise without the flashy resorts. Yes, it is isolated and it takes some effort to get there, but this is more than offset by the quality of the diving, the friendly locals and the very laid back and relaxing ambience of the entire place. It is quirky, fun and a great place for a holiday. We will return and soon Phillip Tubb Melbourne

Don’t miss this place. My wife and I recently spent a fantastic week on Cocos Keeling Islands. We took the opportunity to take the twice weekly ferry service from West Island to Direction Island... we loved it so much we came back for a second time. Mike G Joondalup

Home Island is definitely quieter than West Island with religion a big part of daily life but the locals were so friendly and welcoming. It was so nice to be able to swim straight off the shore in amazing turquoise water while we cooked BBQs at sunset. Highly recommended! Pete

SEVENSEAS Media

Ocean conservation is human conservation.

Feature Destination: Cocos Keeling Islands: The Islands

West island.

West Island is an ideal size to explore by pushbike or, for the less energetic, by  hire vehicle . There’s plenty to do: Take a plunge into the turquoise Indian Ocean at Trannies Beach, one of the island’s most popular swimming beaches or journey out to Rumah Baru the West Island jetty and feed hungry giant trevally and reef sharks from the safety of the pier. The  Jetty is also a great place to spot turtles that like to laze around in the shallow waters around the jetty. 

Marvel at the dense palm tree jungle, home to a large array of bird species on your way to the southern end of the island. Treat yourself to a fascinating reef walk from Scout Park to Pulu Maraya, a little uninhabited island where you’ll find a lively rockpool, peek under the ledges to see some sneaky hidden fish and turtles.

Pack some refreshments and head to the Yacht Club for a picnic, or just laze around in the crystal clear water at high tide. Hire a Stand-up Paddleboard or kayak to explore the lagoon and to chase some fish and turtles. 

During the Trade Wind season from July to October, kite beach is home to kitesurfers and windsurfers from around the world. The Yacht Club is an ideal place to watch these exciting water sports without getting too close to the action unless, of course, you want to try it for yourself!

For all the keen surfers out there; Whether you’re a complete amateur or a seasoned professional, our local surf spots will cater for you. Just make sure you check with a local about the weather conditions beforehand! A tide chart can also be obtained from the  Community Resource Centre  located behind the West Island airport.

Order a coffee and delicious meal at Saltmakers by the Sea during the day. Enjoy locally caught fish from Salty’s Grill & Bakery before heading down to the  Club  in the evening to share stories with locals over a game of pool and an ice-cold beverage.

The notice board on the side of the Club is updated daily with local events if you want to get involved, and you can always drop by the Visitor Centre and our friendly staff can answer any questions you might have.

Home Island

Located across the lagoon and just a short ferry ride away from West Island, this unique part of the Cocos Keeling Islands is a must-see for visitors. Home of the Cocos Malay people, the island offers a complete contrast to West Island.

Visit the Home Island Visitor Centre & Museum and delve into the fascinating history of Cocos, you can read about the local culture and tradition, the abundant flora and fauna, Australian naval history, and the early owners of the Cocos Keeling Islands – The Clunies-Ross family. The museum is open Monday to Friday during Shire office hours, see the staff for a key.

Stroll through the Calophyllum palm jungle up to Oceania House – Located on the southwest side of the island, once home to the Clunies-Ross family and now privately owned by local residents, take a tour or stay overnight for a historical experience you’ll never get anywhere else!

While you’re on the island, check out the small shopping precinct where you can pick up groceries, fishing gear, hardware and souvenirs. Why not even buy a spike and husk a coconut for yourself! 

Visit the picturesque cemetery located towards the north of the island, or picnic at the many pleasant shaded pondoks (shelters) along the shores and beaches of the island. Here you can also enjoy the amazing views of Prison Island and Direction Island. Bring your reef boots and take a short walk over to Prison Island on low tide.

Direction Island

A day trip to Direction Island’s Cossies Beach crowned Best Beach in Australia in 2017, should definitely be on your holiday agenda and is just a brief trip away on the ferry. This picture-perfect tropical island offers exquisite white sandy beaches, shady shelters, wood-fired BBQs, eco-toilets, wifi and walking trails.

Recently named Cossies Beach, but more commonly known as DI, this island is home to the world-famous ‘Rip’. Much safer than it sounds, the Rip features a diverse marine life of vivid fish, corals, reef sharks, huge wrasse and parrotfish, and can be safely snorkelled during your time on the island.

The island is a favourite anchorage for visiting round-the-world yachts, many of whom have left calling card paraphernalia and other memorabilia on the palm trees. You’ll be surprised how many determined yachties have made it here over the years!

If you’d like to truly experience the tranquillity and remoteness of Direction Island, camping is permitted. To make the most of your adventure, you’ll need to arrive fully self-sufficient as there is no drinking water or electricity. The ferry operates twice a week on Thursday and Saturday to transport you across the beautiful lagoon.

Prison Island

Prison Island, or Pulu Beras as it is known in Malay, used to be twice its present size and with a hill that was almost the highest point on the island. Situated between Home and Direction Islands, the now tiny island housed a prison in the early days of settlement, though little remains of this today except the name.

Enjoy an easy walk around the island’s entire perimeter, bathe in the relaxing shallow waters and take a few snaps to send back to family and friends at home.

Prison Island is also a place of legend – the Cocos Malay people say that a mermaid lives there and that she calls back home any Cocos-born people who leave the islands’ shores. So keep your eyes peeled and camera at the ready!

This piece was prepared online by  Panuruji Kenta, Publisher, SEVENSEAS Media

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