Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Unspoilt Paradise
Australia's last unspoilt paradise lies in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean offering spectacular snorkelling, world-class diving, excellent fishing and the adrenalin-rush of kitesurfing.

Unspoilt Paradise

Australia's last unspoilt paradise lies in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean offering spectacular...

10 best things to do in Cocos Keeling Island | Cocos Keeling Islands Fishing and Snorkeling
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Cocos (Keeling) Islands Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

West Island

Location:

Southeastern Asia, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Indonesia, about halfway between Australia and Sri Lanka

Currency:

Australian dollars (AUD)

Area:

14 sq km

Population:

596 (July 2014 est.)

Languages:

Malay (Cocos dialect) 68.8%, English 22.3%, unspecified 8.9%; note - data represent language spoken at home (2016 est.)

Religion:

Muslim (predominantly Sunni) 75%, Anglican 3.5%, Roman Catholic 2.2%, none 12.9%, unspecified 6.3% (2016 est.)

TimeZone:

UTC+6.5

Tel Code:

+61

Things to Do

  • 1. Snorkeling in Pulu Keeling National Park

    Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life while snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Pulu Keeling National Park.

  • 2. Sunset Cruise

    Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the coast of Cocos (Keeling) Islands and witness the breathtaking sunset over the Indian Ocean.

  • 3. Kiteboarding at Direction Island

    Ride the waves and feel the thrill of kiteboarding at Direction Island, a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts.

  • 4. Guided Nature Walks

    Embark on guided nature walks and discover the unique flora and fauna of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands with knowledgeable local guides.

  • 5. Island Hopping

    Hop on a boat and explore the surrounding islands of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, each offering its own charm and natural beauty.

  • 6. Fishing Charters

    Embark on a fishing charter and try your luck at catching some of the delicious fish species found in the waters of Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

  • 7. Bicycle Tours

    Take a leisurely bicycle tour around the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and soak in the stunning coastal landscapes and serene atmosphere.

  • 8. Bird Watching

    Immerse yourself in the bird-rich ecosystems of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitats.

  • 9. Kayaking in Horsburgh Island

    Paddle along the pristine waters surrounding Horsburgh Island and discover hidden coves and breathtaking coastal scenery.

  • 10. Relaxing on the Beach

    Unwind and soak up the sun on the stunning white sandy beaches of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Weather

Climate

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands have a tropical climate with hot and humid weather all year round. The temperature stays constant throughout the year, with an average temperature of around 28-30°C (82-86°F).

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is from April to November, when the weather is dry and less humid. During this time, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the island without being bothered by the rain. December to March is the wet season, but this is also when the island comes alive with lush vegetation and wildlife.

Food

Coconut Crab

Coconut Crab

The Coconut Crab is a local delicacy, known as 'Uga' in the local language. It is a large land crab that is typically roasted and enjoyed for its sweet and succulent flesh, making it a popular dish among locals and visitors alike.

Curry Laksa

Curry Laksa

Curry Laksa is a flavorful noodle soup dish with a coconut milk-based curry broth, filled with noodles, bean sprouts, tofu, shrimp, and other ingredients. It is a popular comfort food in Cocos (Keeling) Islands, enjoyed for its aromatic and spicy flavors.

Gado-Gado

Gado-Gado

Gado-Gado is a traditional Indonesian salad that is also popular in Cocos (Keeling) Islands. It features a mix of slightly blanched vegetables, tofu, and hard-boiled eggs, served with a peanut sauce that adds a delightful nutty and savory flavor to the dish.

Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak is a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, served with a variety of accompaniments such as fried anchovies, roasted peanuts, boiled egg, and spicy sambal. It is a beloved and iconic dish in Cocos (Keeling) Islands, enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Kaya Toast

Kaya Toast

Kaya Toast is a popular breakfast snack in Cocos (Keeling) Islands, consisting of crispy toasted bread spread with kaya, a sweet and creamy coconut and pandan jam, and served with soft-boiled eggs and coffee or tea.

Accommodation

Visitors to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands have a range of accommodation options to choose from, including:

Hotels

There are several small hotels on the islands, offering comfortable rooms and facilities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and bar areas.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses provide a more economical option for visitors, with basic rooms and shared facilities.

Holiday Homes

Visitors can also rent holiday homes on the islands, which offer more privacy and space compared to hotels and guesthouses.

Camping

Camping is also possible on the islands, with designated camping areas and basic facilities provided.

Visitors are advised to book their accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

Transportation

Flights

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands can be reached by air, with regular flights from Perth, Western Australia. The airport is located on West Island, one of the 27 coral atolls that make up the Cocos Islands.

Boats

Visitors can also reach the Cocos (Keeling) Islands by boat, with regular ferry services from nearby Indonesian islands.

Bicycles and Scooters

Once on the islands, visitors can rent bicycles or scooters to explore the island. This is a popular way to get around and offers a great way to see the island's natural beauty.

Taxis

Taxis are also available on the islands for visitors who prefer not to ride a bicycle or scooter. They are usually more expensive than other forms of transportation.

Money

Currency

  • The currency of Cocos (Keeling) Islands is the Australian Dollar (AUD).

Cash And Cards

  • Credit cards are widely accepted in Cocos (Keeling) Islands.
  • It is recommended to carry cash for small purchases and in case of emergencies.

ATMs

  • There are a few ATMs available on the main island of West Island.
  • It is advisable to withdraw enough cash before visiting the smaller islands.

Tipping

  • Tipping is not customary in Cocos (Keeling) Islands.
  • However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip or rounding up the bill can be appreciated.

Cost Of Living

  • The cost of living in Cocos (Keeling) Islands is relatively high.
  • Accommodation and dining options can be expensive due to the remote location.

Scams

  • Cocos (Keeling) Islands generally have a low crime rate and scams are rare.
  • However, it is always advisable to be cautious with your personal belongings and avoid sharing sensitive information.