Cocos Keeling Islands

Imagine palm trees swaying in the breeze, unspoiled white-sand beaches and waters varying between brilliant navy blues to the lightest, clearest turquoises imaginable. And now picture your days filled with hammock naps, swims or strolls along far-off beaches, ocean activities, and magnificent sunsets without the Congratulationscrowds.you have arrived at Australia’s most idyllic island getaway—Cocos Keeling Islands!

Incredibly remote and unbelievably pristine, the Cocos Keeling Islands (known locally as Cocos) is a little oasis hideaway where you can escape the worries of the Surroundedworld. by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, this quintessential tropical island is a water-lovers and beachgoers paradise

where experiences can range from the adrenalin rush of kiteboarding, visiting uninhabited islands, fishing for your own catch of the day, or saying ‘I do’ and sharing your wedding journey.

The snorkelling and diving here is compelling; visitors will delight in reefs and a coral lagoon teeming with precious and colourful marine life. And while the lagoon offers a stunning backdrop for the many experiences Cocos has to offer, others may take pleasure in our walking trails and historical tours, viewing the spectacular world-class birdlife or playing golf.

Natural beauty is in abundance here, along with a rich and colourful history influenced by both westerners and the Cocos Malay settlers. No matter what your interests are, your possibilities on Cocos are endless.

Welcome to paradise!

ParadiseParadise e eFoundFound

At a glanceAt a glance e e

TheLocationCocosKeeling Islands are an Australian territory located in the Indian Ocean 2750 kilometres north-west of Perth. The territory consists of a group of 27 islands that form two flat, low lying coral atolls in a total land area of about 14 square kilometres. (The two separate coral atolls are 24 kilometres apart and have developed on top of old volcanic undersea mountains—this undersea range also includes Christmas Island, which lies about 900 kilometres to the east north-east.)

Of the 27 islands, just two are inhabited: West Island, which has a population of around 150 people, and Home Island with approximately 600 Cocos Malay residents.

The other 25 uninhabited pristine tropical islands are the way nature intended them to be, undeveloped and spectacular.

One of these islands, North Keeling or Pulu Keeling as it is also known is one of Australia’s most remote national parks (not accessible to the public).

When to Visit e

When to visit - seasons

As Cocos is blessed with year-long warm tropical climate it’s always a good time to visit, although different times of year may be better suited to your particular interests.

There are two main seasons on Cocos: the trade winds which run from approximately May to October—if kitesurfing or windsurfing is your thing, this is the best time to journey over. And the doldrums, from around November to April, marking calmer weather and less wind—this is usually the best time for diving and bird-

Nowatching.matter what season, you can expect warm days and balmy evenings ranging between a comfortable 25 to 30 degrees.

CocosDressKeeling

Islands attire for tourists is western; and as it is always warm, this means casual and relaxed. All you need is shorts, t-shirts, sarongs, swimwear a beach towel and some comfortable thongs, sandals or joggers. Plus, don’t forget shoes for reef walking.

The Cocos sun is strong (even on cloudy days) so pack a high SPF sunblock and a rash shirt to avoid sunburn!

For Visits to Home Island, please ensure to dress conservatively and cover your knees and shoulder to respect the Cocos Malay Culture

Local time

Cocos operate one and a half hours behind Australian Western Standard Time (AWST), which is GMT

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are an offshore territory of Australia, so you will holiday among a small, welcoming expat community of Australian English speakers on the 15 kilometre long West Island. Across the lagoon you’ll find local Home Islanders speaking Cocos Malay and English.

ACultureshortferry

ride across the lagoon takes you to Home Island and into the heart of the Cocos Malay community, where the local culture is a blend of history and tradition found nowhere else in the world.

The Cocos Malay Home Islanders form a tiny community that has been held together for more than 150 years by geographical isolation, shared religious beliefs, strong family loyalty and a unique version of the old ‘Trading Malay’ language of the East Indies.

West Island is home to an even smaller group of expat Australians who celebrate traditional Australian events and holidays. These two diverse groups share life on Cocos in peace, harmony and mutual respect.

TheCurrencyislandsoperate

in Australian Dollars and are duty free. Credit cards are best, and most businesses accept them. Most West Island businesses have EFTPOS facilities; however, small businesses appreciate smaller notes and change, so bring some cash as well.

An ATM is located within the Community Resource Centre.

Getting there

Virgin Australia flies to Cocos twice a week from Perth. Passports are required. You can book your flights directly with Virgin or have one of our specialised wholesalers help you put together your dream holiday. For further information visit cocoskeelingislands.com.au

Where to stayWhere to staye e

Wherever

you choose to stay for your getaway, the unique island beauty of Cocos is on your doorstep. From deluxe style holidayhouses, apartments, bungalows, cottages and villas; to a budget style motel, apartments, and lush campgrounds, your stay on Cocos will be a memorable one.

You will find that most of the accommodation is located on West Island, mainly self-contained, and offers various amenities such as air-conditioning, ceiling fans, fully equipped kitchens, quality linen, washing machines, beach towels, barbecue areas and more.

Some accommodation includes hire cars airport pickup or complimentary bicycles. All accommodation on Cocos is close to the lagoon or ocean, and most offer great views over the water.

Camping is also a popular choice for visitors to the islands. A permit is required and can be obtained from the Shire of Cocos Keeling Islands.

There are a lot of great options for families, groups, couples or singles. For bookings or further details contact the Visitors Centre or cocoskeelingislands.com.auvisit

Water Activities and Experiences

The islands support a spectacular array of marine and land life that’s waiting to be marvelled over. Pack your camera, set out on a guided tour, hire a kayak or stand-uppaddle board, grab your kiting gear, pull on your snorkel or diving gear and discover a whole new world of TheWATERliving.ACTIVITIESperfectwaytoexperienceCocos is from above and below the water. Join an organised canoe safari, paddle across the lagoon and explore the Southern Atolls on a personalised Chilliboats waterbike tour, explore a shipwreck on a diving trip, or go with the adrenaline rush of learning a new water sport. No matter what your interests are, the crystal-clear waters of Cocos beckon with adventurous possibilities.

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Kite surfing and Recognisedwindsurfingasone of the best places in the world to enjoy these lagoonsports,invigoratingtheCocoscomesalive during the ‘winter’ months of July to October. This is when the south-east trade winds bring ideal conditions for kite surfers and windsurfers alike that are looking for small crowds, lots of space and perfect conditions. The waist deep, warm, clear-blue waters offer the perfect set-up from beginners who want to learn, to experienced riders who will love the flat and spacious conditions to learn new tricks.

You can make your own way to Cocos and hire gear on-island (windsurfing only), or join a tour to take advantage of full packages with flights, accommodation, equipment hire and—most important—experienced instructors for beginner to advanced lessons.

SurfersSurfingcan

try out two good surf breaks on the ocean-side of West Island: the Spot and the Shack. The Shack is for more experienced riders, while the Spot is a safe place to learn or take the Snorkellingkids. and diving

Snorkelling on Cocos is a must! It’s great for all ages and experience levels, and you’ll be in shallow and protected conditions as your own aquarium comes alive in crystal clear waters. Be prepared to be awed by colourful corals in the atoll’s reef, and more than 500 Indian Ocean fish species, along with huge numbers of hawksbill and green turtles.

Either bring your own snorkelling gear, or hire equipment from the Visitor Centre, where you can also find out about all the amazing snorkelling sites that are both favourites with locals and visitors.

When it comes to scuba diving, Cocos Keeling Islands tick all the boxes! The water temperature is between 26 and 29 degrees, average visibility

is 25 metres, there are over 25 uncrowded diving sites, and a varied atoll terrain that suits divers of all abilities. Add minimal travel time to the list, and you will have an unforgettable underwater experience like no other!

There are over 1,500 species of sea creatures to discover in these waters, including the only endemic fish species, the Cocos pygmy angelfish. You can also watch the graceful mantas and be entertained by curious dolphins and turtles. Dive sites in and outside the lagoon include wrecks, reefs, caves and drop-offs.

Kayaks, canoes, waterbikes and stand up paddle boards

There’s always a way to enjoy our incredible turquoise waters, uninhabited scenic islands or the local wildlife. You can join a motorised canoe safari which includes island hopping and snorkelling. You’ll discover the beauty of the southern end of the lagoon while relaxing and enjoying complimentary drinks and nibbles. Jump onboard the Chilliboats waterbikes and paddle your way across to discover some of the smaller southern Islands.

If you prefer to explore on your own, you can hire a kayak or stand up paddle board and, head southwards in the lagoon for some quiet exploration with likely sightings of schools of fish, reef sharks, turtles and eels.

ExperienceFishing

fishing like never before. In fact, there are few places in the world offering such fishing diversity as the Cocos Keeling Islands. Our unspoilt waters and atolls are home to a vast variety of water species. Try fly-fishing for bonefish or trevally and the experience of bringing in a catch of up to one-metre long.

The fishing is perfect all year round. Take the whole family down to the jetty or any beach and fish for sweetlip, silveries, cod and mullet. At the end of the day BBQ your freshly caught dinner on the lagoon’s shore as the sun slowly sets over theFishingwater. tackle and gear are available for purchase locally. Call in to the Visitor Centre for details.

Land Based Activities and Experiences

TheBirdwatchingCocosKeelingIslands is on the edge of the East Asian-Australian flyway, so avid birdwatchers will be spoilt for sightings of migratory and resident birds—all within a remote tropical island of

birds have been recorded on Cocos, and you’re likely to spot endemic species, seabirds, rare birds and even ‘vagrant’ species from as far away as China and

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25,000 kilometre annual round trip from the Arctic Circle through South-East Asia and Australia to New Zealand. The non-breeding cycle, which takes place in the southern hemisphere, occurs from September to April.

Migratory birds can be sighted while they feed and replenish their fat reserves during these months on all the islands of the Cocos Keeling group. Dedicated birding tours work closely with on-island operators and Parks Australia to access the many sighting spots across the atoll. Due to the East Asian – Australian flyway the Cocos Islands are known for megabird sightings such as the Drongo Cuckoo. The only endemic bird of the Cocos Keeling Islands is the Buffbanded rail which can be found on Pulu Keeling National Park, an island north of the atoll, which is normally closed to visitors but has recently also been spotted on Horsburgh Island, Direction Island and Home Island

In addition to the Cocos endemic Buff-banded rail, birds such as the Saunders, White and Sooty tern, Red-tailed Tropicbird, Silver bosun, Red-footed, Brown and Masked booby, common sandpiper, White-throated needletail and Rudy turnstone and

Arts and photography

Set your creative side free as you immerse yourself in some art or photography against the backdrop of a stunning natural environment.

A visit to Cocos is not complete without a stop at the art gallery housed in the restored Big Barge on West Island. This one-of-a-kind gallery showcases original local artworks for sale such as paintings, photo canvases, textiles, carvings and jewellery. Inspiring and creative workshops are also run here including printing, flotsam and jetsam mixed media, coiling, weaving, drawing and environmental art.

Few destinations provide such perfect photographic opportunities as the Cocos Keeling Islands. So why not take your photography to a new level, participate in a professional photography tour . Plus, what better souvenir to take home with you, than a beautiful photograph that you have taken yourself showcasing this unique and stunning location.

Walking and beachcombing

The Cocos Keeling Islands offer an extraordinary experience unlike anywhere else. The horseshoe shaped atoll encloses a lagoon that is remarkably shallow at low-tide, which means keen visitors can walk the entire atoll at certain times—this is the only atoll in the world where such a walk is possible. Planning and preparation are required. Further information is available from the VisitorWalkingCentre.or beachcombing is also a great way to discover the unique flora and fauna of Cocos. Relax and contemplate life as you stroll along the white-sand beaches. Cocos is a crab haven and home to many species you’ll see on beaches and forest floors. Look out for the purple land crab, red hermit crab and horneyed ghost crab. The huge robber crab and Christmas Island red crab are rarer but equally exciting to find. Or simply marvel at the turquoise water and soak up time and space in one of the world’s most remote and beautiful getaways.

WhyGolfnot

play a round of golf on one of the most unique courses you’re ever likely to encounter.

The Cocos Keeling Islands Golf Course is the only course that plays across an international runway. Join the locals for Thursday golf, which is great fun for beginners to advanced, or arrange to play a round with friends. To find out about club hire call in at the Visitor Centre.

eIsland HoppingeIsland Hopping

Island hopping

With 27 coral islands making up the Cocos Atoll, there’s plenty to explore. Whether you seek solitude on an uninhabited island, a chance to glimpse seabirds or simple relaxation on a deserted beach, there’s an island just for you.

Island hopping can be done with the local ferry between West, Home and Direction islands, on foot or by joining one of the tours to other islands of the atoll.

Direction Island

A day trip to this picture-perfect island is a must! A brief ferry trip away, it offers exquisite white sandy beaches, shady shelters, wood-fired barbecues, ecotoilets and walking trails. Snorkel the ‘Rip’, renowned for its diverse and vivid coloured marine life or just relax in the surroundings of a crystal clear lagoon. Camping is permitted and you do require a permit which can be obtained from the Shire of the Cocos Keeling Islands so you can enjoy a truly remote island experience. You’ll need to be fully self-sufficient as there is no drinking water or electricity here.

AtWestcocoskeelingislands.com.auvisitIslandonly15kilometreslong,West

For more information

Island’s size makes it perfect to get around by bicycle or vehicle to explore the many trails and beaches. Take a plunge in the turquoise Indian Ocean at the safe and popular Trannies Beach or watch the kite surfers and windsurfers at the Yacht Club while you enjoy a picnic lunch. Afterwards you can take a cultural break at the art gallery, grab a coffee from the café, or chat to the locals over a drink at the Cocos Club.

Home Island

A short ferry ride across the lagoon takes you to the home of the Cocos Malay, which offers a great contrast to West Island. Take a guided cultural tour, sample spicy Malay cuisine at Seafront Restaurant or at Island Brunch Café. Explore the Home Island Museum to discover local culture and traditions, Australian naval history, native flora and fauna, plus the history of the early owners of the islands, the Clunies-Ross family (at their former residence, Oceania House).

Pulu Maraya

Take a low-tide reef walk from Scout Park to the tiny island of Pulu Maraya for excellent snorkelling. This is a great location to take the kids and enjoy seeing a variety of different fish species and maybe even the resident octopus.

Prison Island

Between Home and Direction islands, Pulu Beras (or ‘rice island’ as it’s known in Malay) is a place of legend. The Cocos Malay say a mermaid lives here, calling home any Cocos-born people who leave the islands’ shores. Enjoy an easy walk around the island, swim in the shallow waters and soak up the tropical TakeHorsburghexperience.IslandaboattripouttoHorsburgh

Island, known to the local Cocos Malay as “Pulu Luar”. Here you can enjoy the privacy of the Island where you can walk along the white sandy beaches or swim and snorkel in the amazing surrounding waters. The remains of six inch guns which was installed in 1941 to protect the Atoll’s main entrance and anchorage lays on the reef of Horsburgh Island.

OurServicesIsland

Vehicle, golf buggy and bicycle hire

Eating out

You’ll discover a delicious range of flavoursome offerings among the unique local restaurants and cafes on West and Home Islands. Choose between a selection of Western and spicy Malay cuisine— whether it’s a hearty breakfast to set you up for an active day, a casual family lunch or an evening meal to end another day in

Shoppingparadise.

and local business

eA number of local car hire companies offer a range of cars, single or double cab utes or 4WDs. They’ll meet you at the airport and provide baby seats and booster seats if needed. Many accommodation providers will supply bicycles for guests but are also available to hire from the Visitor Centre. Home Islanders get around Home Island on Golf Buggies and this is ideal for exploring Home Island, golf buggies and can also be Centre.Visitorthroughhiredthe

The beauty of a visit to Cocos Keeling Islands is that you can escape noisy, crowded shopping malls and experience the joy of finding everything you need - and a little more - in a range of friendly, personal shops and small businesses.

Along with grocery and duty-free items, you’ll discover fishing, snorkelling and diving gear, plus souvenirs that include unique gifts and Cocos-inspired artworks. Take time to drop into these local retailers and businesses.

six days a week, with additional services between West and Direction islands on Thursdays and Saturdays. A local bus service from the settlement to the jetty on West Island departs 30 minutes prior to the departure of the ferry. Cash only fee payable on board the ferry and bus. Further information and timetables are available at the Visitor Centre.

Centre on West Island and at times Virgin Australia may arrive outside of their opening hours, you can pre-book so that you “stay connected” while on Island. Set-up your favourite mobile chat app(s) and enable WiFi calling to make and receive calls on your mobile phone.

We are a hire and adventure Tour Company located on the beautiful Home Island in the Cocos Keeling Islands. Join us on a Cocos Malay and History Tour. Let us help you explore the history and beauty of this island paradise. Our local born and bred tour guides will immerse you in all aspects of their island home. They’ll show you ways of the Cocos Malay people, their unique culture and traditions that have evolved during our 200 year history on an island that’s simply known as “Home Island”. We also offer these tours with a morning tea, lunch or sunset dinner package.

Why stop at land tours. Why not do a waterbike tour with us too!

Check out Home Island from the water. Ride across the crystal clear waters of the lagoon and do some island hopping. Enjoy some swimming and snorkelling while learning about the history of these islands. For something different we also offer a Pedal and Picnic tour. So when you’re celebrating that special occasion, we’ve got you covered.

Needing some transport options to get around Home Island, either for work and play. We have the solution for you. The Iconic Home Island electric golf buggies offer a convenient and fun way to get around the island. We offer short term and long term hire of 4 seater and 8 seater buggies. Whether you’re on your own or in a group we have a golf buggy to suit your needs.

Home Island, West Island, Cocos Keeling Islands, WA 6799

www.homeislandhire.com.au Island Hire

homeislandhire@node1.com.au

Indian Ocean Experiences

Travel Packages and Tours to Australia’s Indian Ocean Islands - Christmas Island and the Cocos Keeling Islands

Experience all Christmas Island and the Cocos Keeling Islands have to offer with Indian Ocean Experiences.

Let us assist with all aspects of your travel. Our local knowledge and 15 years of experience in special packages and group tours to Christmas Island and the Cocos Keeling Islands will guide you to a bespoke itinerary including flights, accommodation and touring, ensuring you get the best out of your holiday.

Enjoy Christmas Island, with its annual Red Crab migration, amazing diving and snorkelling, a birders’ paradise with beautiful remote beaches, natural spas, grottos, blowholes and a rich heritage and culture.

The Cocos Keeling Islands offer a tropical paradise with spectacular diving and snorkelling, excellent fishing and the adrenalin-rush of kitesurfing. Relax on deserted beaches, visit uninhabited islands, and discover the culture and traditions of the Cocos Malay people.

Visit our website, email, or call to book your Christmas and Cocos Keeling Islands adventure.

1300 484

The welcoming staff at the Cocos Keeling Islands Visitor Centre are locals who are knowledgeable and passionate about the islands. With the most up to date and comprehensive information about what to do and when we can help with all aspects of your trip to paradise. Bookings are available 24 hours a day on our website. Contact us to make your tropical island getaway a reality.

Just a coconut throw from the Indian Ocean, stylish, ocean side, self-contained accommodation located on West Island on the beautiful and remote Cocos Keeling Islands, the “jewel of the Indian Ocean”. This exclusive complex provides a private and relaxed atmosphere with the majestic Indian Ocean right at your back door. Cocos Castaway has up-todate facilities so you can live in comfort at yesterday’s pace. Just imagine sitting on your veranda taking in the breathtakingly beautiful sunsets whilst enjoying the balmy tropical Cocos evenings. The Cocos Keeling Islands are a place where the crabs move faster than you. Come visit us on Cocos and experience for yourself this little known tropical paradise. You’re just a coconut throw away from a holiday of a Hwy, West Island, Keeling Islands 6799 Box 1015, Cocos (Keeling) Islands WA 6799 +61 8 9162 6515

Dive in an underwater paradise and enjoy exciting, uncrowded diving and water based activities in a pristine underwater environment. Enjoy the abundance of beautiful corals, clean warm water and spectacular marine life. All levels of experience catered to.

With over 600 species of fish, many of which have been

Cocos Islands Adventure Tours

Canoe Safari’s, Turtle Kayak Tours, West Island Tour, Car Hire, Kayak and SUP Hire. Glide across the pristine lagoon whilst enjoying a guided tour to secluded beaches and isolated islands. Enjoy the thrill of snorkelling over coral reefs, swimming in crystal clear waters and learning more about the history of Cocos. There is no better way to experience the magic of Cocos than on a canoe tour. Includes quality food and refreshments. Why not also try our Turtle Tour and view critically endangered Hawksbill turtles and huge Green turtles. See Ash or Kylie for a quality hire vehicle for your stay on Cocos. Enjoy the convenience of an airport meet and greet or have your vehicle left at your choice of accommodation. You will be guaranteed a 24/7 service from Cocos’s longest running family owned car hire

Ashley & Kylie James House 20, West Island Keeling Islands

Play on the only golf course in the world includes an international Scroungers is the ideal way to experience our beautiful 18 hole golf course. Enjoy a social game of Ambrose with and You won’t experience this kind of anywhere else. Scroungers is held every Thursday afternoon at 3.30pm, with club hire and bar facilities available. Please note that strict for crossing the

Enjoy your stay on the beautiful Cocos (K) Islands in the centrally located ‘THE CASTLE’.

The Castle comprises of 3 bedrooms which can sleep up to 8 people comfortable. You can cook in the spacious, well appointed, modern kitchen or use the BBQ under the huge outdoor entertaining area. The Castle has 2 bathrooms, 2 toilets plus an outside shower with hot and cold water. The home is airconditioned and ceiling fans throughout.

It is a short stroll to the waters edge, shopping, Cocos Club, Restaurant and Café. Your ideal holiday awaits you. Bookings directed to: Megan Clunies-Ross 8 9162

Christmas

Rising majestically from the tropical depths of the Indian Ocean, and surrounded by the azure waters of Asia’s southern fringe, lies a stunning natural wonder - Christmas Island. Its name alone is intriguing and stirs interest.

Yet this tiny speck of land in the Indian Ocean is a truly fascinating paradise, inviting you to uncover it’s remarkable surprises of nature in a one-of-a-kind environment.

Experience a rich biodiversity and a welcoming culture. Warm, crystal clear waters invite you to swim or snorkel at idyllic beaches, or scuba dive and be mesmerized by the gentle, close-up beauty of the whale shark.

Grow you sense of wonder as you are captivated by the spectacle of the annual red crab migration - a glorious visual feast of colour sweeping across the landscape from forest to ocean. Overhead you’ll see birds you won’t see anywhere else in the world. You can tick off sightings, marvel at their elegance, and treat your ear to new calls.

Every step you take on Christmas Island is a sensory journey - truly “ A Natural Wonder”.