The Islands of Cocos Keeling Island
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 Paddle board 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 to close to the action, unless of course you want to try it for yourself!
Don’t forget to visit the Big Barge Art Centre and local artist Emma’s wonderful floatsam and art creations. On your way, stop at the Cocos farm to say hello to the ducks.
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!
