Cocos (Keeling) Islands Travel Guide

Explore the natural and cultural attractions of Cocos (Keeling) Islands with the best things to do, places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and much more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Cocos (Keeling) Islands is a stunning archipelago in Australia’s territory in Oceania. This unspoiled paradise boasts pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and breathtaking landscapes. With a fascinating mix of Malay, English, and Australian cultures, Cocos (Keeling) Islands is a unique destination that offers both natural and cultural attractions.

Introduction to Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Cocos (Keeling) Islands is an Australian external territory located in the Indian Ocean, about 2750 km northwest of Perth. The archipelago consists of 27 coral islands, of which only two are inhabited - West Island and Home Island. Cocos (Keeling) Islands is known for its secluded beaches, crystal-clear water, and diverse marine life. The official languages of Cocos (Keeling) Islands are English, Malay, and Cocos Malay, which are commonly spoken by the locals. The currency used in Cocos (Keeling) Islands is Australian Dollars. Phone and internet services are available on the islands.

List of Places to Visit in Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Exploring Cocos (Keeling) Islands is a true adventure with plenty of natural and cultural attractions. Here is a list of the must-visit places in Cocos (Keeling) Islands:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cocos (Keeling) Islands Museum: The museum showcases the history of the archipelago, including the colonial period, World War II, and the local culture. You can learn about the traditional Malay lifestyle, the coconut industry, and the impact of European settlement on the islands.

  • Home Island Cultural Tour: Home Island is the cultural hub of the archipelago, where the local Cocos Malay community resides. On this tour, you can experience the traditional way of life of the Cocos Malay people, including their food, customs, religion, and language.

  • Oceania House: A beautiful colonial style house that provides an insight into the British colonial era.

Natural Attractions of Cocos (Keeling) Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Direction Island: Visit this uninhabited island for an unforgettable beach day with crystal-clear waters, white sand, and stunning coral reefs.

  • The Rip: A natural coral channel that offers a unique snorkeling and diving experience to explore the diverse marine life of Cocos (Keeling) Islands, including colorful fish, starfish, and turtles.

  • Wafer Bay: A secluded bay on the west coast of West Island, offering a peaceful spot for relaxation and sunset views.

  • Pulu Keeling National Park: A marine and nature reserve that covers over 14 islands and more than 24 coral reefs. It’s a popular spot for birdwatching, hiking, and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Cocos (Keeling) Islands offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Here are some of the most popular trails on the islands:

  • West Island Loop (6.5km): A cycling and hiking loop that offers scenic views of the lagoon, coconut plantations, and local villages.

  • Lily Beach Walk (1.5km): A scenic coastal walk that leads to the picturesque Lily Beach, with white sand and turquoise waters.

  • Pulu Keeling National Park Trail (6.8km): A hiking trail that takes you through the tropical rainforest of Pulu Keeling National Park, offering stunning views of the coral reefs and marine wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Cocos (Keeling) Islands: Activities and Tours

Cocos (Keeling) Islands offer a wide range of activities and tours, catering to all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do on the islands:

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Cocos (Keeling) Islands is a famous spot for snorkeling and diving due to its crystal-clear water, colorful coral reefs, and diverse marine life.

  • Fishing: A popular activity among visitors to Cocos (Keeling) Islands, offering the opportunity to catch a variety of fish, including the infamous Giant Trevally.

  • Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding: A peaceful way to explore the lagoon and its surrounding islands, where you can witness various turtles, rays, and other sea creatures.

  • Island Tours: A great way to explore the islands’ natural and cultural attractions, including the Malay village, lighthouse, and coconut plantations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Cocos (Keeling) Islands:

Day Activity
1 Explore West Island
2 Snorkeling at The Rip and Lily Beach
3 Visit Home Island and Cocos Malay Tour
4 Fishing Tour
5 Pulu Keeling National Park Hike
6 Direction Island Beach Day
7 Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Food and Drink Scene of Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Cocos (Keeling) Islands’ cuisine is heavily influenced by Malay and Australian traditions, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, coconut, and spices. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages on the islands:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nasi Lemak: A traditional Malaysian dish that consists of rice cooked in coconut milk and served with various side dishes, such as fried chicken, sambal, and cucumber.

  • Coconut Crab: A local delicacy in Cocos (Keeling) Islands, which is harvested sustainably, and is considered the biggest crab in the world.

  • Paw Paw Salad: A refreshing salad made with fresh paw paw, cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and lime.

Local Beverages

  • Pandan Juice: A refreshing drink made from pandan leaves, which is a popular Malay ingredient.

  • Coconut Juice: Freshly squeezed coconut juice served in its shell is a must-try when visiting Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

Where to Stay in Cocos (Keeling) Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cocos (Keeling) Islands offer various types of accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options for your stay on the islands:

  • Cocos Castaway: A boutique hotel located in West Island with a tropical garden and a lagoon view.

  • Cocos Beach Motel: A budget-friendly option located on the beachfront, offering a swimming pool and a restaurant.

  • Oceania House: A colonial-style house that offers bed and breakfast with a garden and a veranda overlooking the lagoon.

What to Buy in Cocos (Keeling) Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cocos (Keeling) Islands is known for its unique handicrafts and local products, which are ideal souvenirs and gifts. Here are some of the must-buy products:

  • Coconut Products: Cocos (Keeling) Islands is famous for its coconut-based products, such as virgin coconut oil, coconut soap, and coconut jam.

  • Handicrafts: The local artisans of Cocos (Keeling) Islands produce various handicrafts, such as woven baskets, hats, and traditional Malay clothes.

Local Culture and Customs of Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Cocos (Keeling) Islands have a fascinating mix of Malay, English, and Australian cultures, which is reflected in the way of life, customs, and traditions of the locals. Here are some of the notable cultural aspects of Cocos (Keeling) Islands:

  • Islam: The majority of the locals are Muslims, and the Cocos Malay culture is deeply influenced by Islamic traditions and practices.

  • Language: The Cocos Malay language is the most commonly spoken language on the islands, along with English and Malay.

  • Coconut Industry: The coconut industry has been the primary source of livelihood for the locals for centuries, and coconut is used in various ways, such as food, medicine, and handicrafts.

Best Time to Visit Cocos (Keeling) Islands

The best time to visit Cocos (Keeling) Islands is during the dry season, which lasts from April to November. During this time, you can enjoy the best weather conditions, with less humidity, and fewer chances of rainfall. The peak season is from June to September, where the island is more crowded and expensive.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cocos (Keeling) Islands

To ensure a smooth and respectful visit to Cocos (Keeling) Islands, here are some of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting the Malay village.

  • Protect the marine environment by not littering and avoiding contact with marine life.

  • Take appropriate clothing when visiting mosques and respectful dressing when visiting local villages.

Don’t:

  • Consume alcohol or drugs in public places, as it’s forbidden on the islands.

  • Take shells and other marine life as souvenirs, as it’s illegal to do so.

  • Engage in activities that harm the environment and endanger marine life.

Safety and Health

Cocos (Keeling) Islands is a safe and healthy destination, with no major health risks or natural disasters. However, it’s essential to take the following precautions:

Safety in Cocos (Keeling) Islands

  • Avoid isolated areas at night, especially on the beaches, and take appropriate precautions.

  • Beware of strong currents while swimming and snorkeling and follow the local guidelines.

Health in Cocos (Keeling) Islands

  • Make sure you have up-to-date immunizations and take appropriate medication for mosquitoes to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.

  • Carry enough sunscreen, hats, and water to avoid dehydration and sunburn.

Getting to Cocos (Keeling) Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cocos (Keeling) Islands is only accessible by air, with regular flights from Perth and Christmas Island.

Airports Near Cocos (Keeling) Islands

  • Cocos (Keeling) Islands Airport: The only airport on the archipelago, located on West Island, and served by Virgin Airlines and Malindo Air.

  • Christmas Island Airport: The most convenient international airport, with flights from Perth, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta.

Other Options

  • Ferry: There’s no ferry service to Cocos (Keeling) Islands, and it’s not possible to access the archipelago by boat.

How to Get Around in Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Walking, cycling, and driving are the most common ways to get around the islands. However, there’s no public transport available on the islands. Some accommodations offer bicycles for their guests, while others provide car rentals.

Where to Go Next from Cocos (Keeling) Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you plan to extend your trip to Cocos (Keeling) Islands, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to add to your itinerary:

  • Christmas Island: Another Australian territory located in the Indian Ocean, known for its unique wildlife, national park, and red crabs migration.

  • Perth: The capital city of Western Australia, which is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant food and wine scene, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Cocos (Keeling) Islands is a paradise on earth that offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, diverse marine life, and rich history, Cocos (Keeling) Islands is a must-visit destination for travelers who seek adventure and relaxation. Explore the archipelago with our comprehensive travel guide and experience the hidden gems of this magical place.

Terminal in West Island Terminal in West Island Oceania House Oceania House


    Pulu Keeling National Park