Places of Interest in Christmas Island
Christmas Island has many natural attractions that will suit visitors of all ages and levels of fitness. Here are just a sample of some of the beautiful places to visit on your Christmas Island Adventure.
Flying Fish Cove
Adjacent to the port area and the main mooring sites, the Flying Fish Cove is located at the base of the Settlement area and is home to the Kampong (Malay for village) and the Mosque. The Cove is suitable for both swimming and snorkelling, although it is advisable to wear reef shoes at all times to protect feet from sharp coral and stone fish. It offers many great shore dives and has some of the best diversity and abundance of tropical fish anywhere. The Cove also provides some of the most protected ocean swimming on the island. There are picnic facilities, BBQ’s (Halal and non-Halal), public toilets and showers. The island’s main boat launching facility is also located here.The “Cove” is also a great location to join the locals watching the sun setting and slow down to Christmas Island pace.
Tai Jin House
Located just up the hill beyond Flying Fish Cove, this is the original home of the Administrator of the Island – affectionately known locally as “Buck House”. The expansive gardens are used for community events and provide excellent views overlooking Flying Fish Cove. Tai Jin House is also home to the Christmas Island Historical Exhibition which tells the Christmas Island story. Ask the staff at the Visitor’s Centre for opening hours. A little way past Tai Jin House is the naval installed 1941 gun and buildings that were used to defend the Cove during the second World War.
The Grotto
Approximately five minutes drive from Settlement located just before the golf course. A mini cave with mix of sea and fresh water pool that is refreshing on hot days or a romantic spot with candles at night. The wave motion through narrow openings provides interesting sound effects.
The Blowholes
The vehicle track to the Blowholes passes through stunning tall rainforest and you’ll usually see large numbers of red crabs. At the Blowholes, you will find an elevated walkway at the car park with viewing platforms on the coastal terraces close to the sea cliff edge.
Spectacular blowholes spray seawater high into the air when large swells pound against the shore cliffs and there are panoramic views of the rugged southern coastline.
South Point
Approximately 30 minute drive along straight mine haulage roads, South Point is the site of the major early settlement at the peak of the phosphate mining days. Little evidence remains of this, except for two Chinese temples and a derelict, overgrown railway station. The larger temple has impressive ocean views and is the focus of annual ceremonies which may include firewalking, as pictured on the walls.
