Water Activities in Cocos Keeling Islands
FISHING
The clear turquoise waters and the grand range and diversity of species in and outside of the lagoon make Cocos a fishing paradise.
Few places in the world offer bonefish fly-fishing of the quality you will find on Cocos. The exhilaration of catching bonefish is an experience not to be missed, and one that will keep you coming back for more. From October to February is the best time to go bonefishing. Head out into the lagoon’s crystal clear and calm waters and enjoy an exciting day out bonefishing. Don’t forget to inform yourself about the lagoons tides to ensure the best conditions for a perfect catch.
Cocos offers great land-based fishing spots. Pelagics such as wahoo, mahi-mahi, and sailfish will keep you busy for hours. Or take the whole family fishing 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 the water.
Simply head down to the jetty or any beach and cast a line or visit the Visitor Centre for some insider tips.
Whatever you choose, outstanding fishing is waiting for you on Cocos all year around.
SNORKELLING
Snorkelling while on Cocos is a definite must. It’s great for all ages, and offers shallow and protected conditions. The islands offer numerous snorkelling spots that cater to all experience levels. Whether this is your first time snorkelling or you have already snorkelled the waters of the world, there are plenty of options around that will amaze you.
Probably the most famous of snorkelling sites is ‘the Rip’ located at the southern tip of Direction Island. The ferry visits Direction Island on Thursday and Saturday and then it’s just a 10 minute stroll down the white sandy beach. A current runs from the outer reef towards the lagoon and it is this flowing (fast or slow) body of water that beckons to take the adventure snorkeller on an exciting ride.
From Scout Park at the southern end of West Island, enjoy a short reef walk across to Pulu Maraya on low tide to visit another protected, safe and shallow snorkelling site. Across all these sites you can catch a glimpse of clams, sea stars, sea urchins, rockcods, basslets, butterflyfishes, bannerfishes, angelfishes and parrotfishes along with many other species.
Either bring your own snorkelling gear or hire equipment available from the Visitor Centre, where you can also find information on accessing these sites. It’s easy to forget the world above when engaging with the Cocos aquarium but always remember to apply plenty of suncream and wear a rash shirt if possible. If you want to stand up while you’re snorkelling, look for a sandy patch to stand on, not coral, and exercise caution when touching or handling marine life.
KITESURFING
The Cocos Keeling Islands are growing a great reputation as an ideal location for kite surfers and windsurfers alike who are looking for small crowds, lots of space and perfect conditions. The waist deep, warm, flat crystal clear-blue waters offer the perfect conditions for beginners that want to learn kitesurfing in a safe environment. Experienced riders will love the flat and spacious conditions to practice new tricks and to explore the lagoon during long down winders. Make sure to look down once in a while when kiting across the lagoon and you will spot schools of fish, turtles, and black-tip reef sharks.
The best launching spot is from the yacht club which is located at the southern end of West Island. Set-up your gear underneath palm trees and meet local kitesurfers to exchange the latest tricks.
During the tradewind season from July throughout October Cocos offers consistent 15 – 20 knots of cross on-shore winds.
You will be living the dream as you carve up the lagoon. Take a break under the palm trees or enjoy a BBQ at one of the public BBQ grills before heading out for your next session. Alternatively, join Zephyr kite tours which offer a great all-inclusive program for kitesurfing beginners to experienced riders.
SURFING
Whilst the Cocos Islands’ lagoon is known as a great kitesurfing destination, the ocean side offers fun waves to surf. There are plenty of local die-hard surfers, although with such a small population the surf break rarely feels crowded.
Surfing on the Cocos Islands is a little different to the mainland. Rather than going by the swell the surf is dependent on the tides. This is mostly because the surf breaks are on top of reef, and a low tide results in exposed rocks and coral – local surfers will speak from experience when they warn you to not mess with the reef.
If you are travelling to the Cocos Islands, make sure to bring your own board as there are no hire facilities on the island – That is probably part of the reason why there are mostly un-crowded waves. Reef booties are advisable, unless the aim is to go for the tough, barefoot, island-life look.
SURF BREAKS
The Cocos Islands offer two surf spots, catering for different skill levels.
The Spot – More of a beginner wave, kid friendly (in the shallows) and less consistent swell. Features left and right hander breaks, and can still be fun for the more experienced surfers when some size comes through – also a favourite for the mini mals.
The Shack – More suitable for intermediate/experienced surfers. This break features a clean left hander and is best surfed on a mid-tide. Too low and surfers will be face to face with a number of ‘bommies’ (shallow rocks). Too high and it will feel like paddling against a seemingly everlasting current.
Feel free to drop in to the tourist centre during your time on island to ask questions or pick up a local map so you know where the surf breaks are.
