GOLF
Whether you are a golf novice or an experienced golfer, do not miss out on a game of Scroungers at the local golf course. This is not just any golf course – The Cocos Keeling Islands golf course is the only course that plays across an international runway. Experience watching a plane taking-off or landing while you hit some balls across the nine-hole course. If the flight traffic is slow, there are still the magnificent views of the lagoon right next to the golf course.

The only thing you need to do to play a game of Scroungers is to forget everything you know about golf. Scroungers is a team game and the best way to mingle with the locals. Every Thursday at 3.30pm is tee off time. Make your way down to the Donga, the local golf club, to sign up for a game. Club hire and beverage purchases are available at the golf club.

BIRDWATCHING
The Cocos Keeling Islands are the first place in Australia where a chestnut-winged cuckoo has been sighted. Richard Baxter, founder of Birding Tours Australia, spotted the migratory bird in December 2018 on Home Island. The Islands offer the avid birdwatcher the chance to combine sightings of 39 breeding or resident bird species as well as numerous migratory birds with an iconic and remote tropical island experience. Unforgettable!
The Cocos Keeling Islands intercept the southwest extremity of the East Asian – Australian flyway.

Migratory shorebirds are the most travelled migrants, following the sun on their 25,000 km 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 Buff-banded rail which can be found on Pulu Keeling National Park, an island north of the atoll, which is normally closed to visitors but the Buff-banded rails 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 many more can be spotted in the south atoll.

HONEYMOON
Imagine spending your honeymoon on a paradise island on white sand beaches with a romantic backdrop of sparkling sapphire water and luxuriant coconut palms. A place away from home, with no stress, no crowds, a place where you can enjoy the start of a new stage in your life.

Break away from the routine and experience the fabulous beaches of the Cocos Keeling Islands. Choose a completely uninhabited island or just a picture-perfect deserted beach on West Island.

While you sip champagne and watch the sunset over the lagoon, you can relax and enjoy this unique time to the fullest.

BIRDS & CRABS
BIRDLIFE
The Cocos Keeling Islands are a known destination for vagrant shorebirds and megabird sightings and an absolute paradise for any bird-enthusiast. The remoteness of the islands has helped to maintain its rich biodiversity and unspoiled environment which provides the perfect milieu for migratory birds to feed and replenish their fat reserves.

The Cocos Keeling Islands, especially the Pulu Keeling National Park (North Keeling Island) is the only landmass within a 900 km radius. It makes it a crucial landing option for birds that are on the East Asian-Australian flyways which extends from the Arctic Circle through South-east Asia to Australia and New Zealand. The Cocos Keeling Islands offer the only place for birds that are flying or blown further south during their migration. Due to this, megabirds such as the Drongo Cuckoo can be spotted on the Cocos Keeling Islands.

The only endemic bird of the Cocos Keeling Islands, the Buff-banded rail (Gallirllus phillppensis andrewsi) is found on Pulu Keeling National Park, an island north of the atoll, which is normally closed to visitors. Over the previous months the Buff-banded rail has also been spotted on Horsburgh Island, Direction Island and Home Island.

In addition to the Cocos Keeling Islands endemic birds, the red-footed booby has one of the largest breeding colonies on Pulu Keeling National Park. Due to the close proximity to West and Home Island, the red-footed booby can often be spotted in the south atoll. Not only the red-footed booby is a regular visitor to the islands, brown and masked boobys can often be found throughout the Cocos Keeling Islands. Other commonly sighted birds the Common noddy, White tern, Frigate bird, Rufus night heron, Eastern reef egret and several species of waders.

CRAB HAVEN
The Cocos Islands are a wonderland for crabs! Many species of crabs make their home here – you’ll see them on the sandy beaches and forest floors. Look out for the purple land crab, red hermit crab and horn-eyed ghost crab. Keep your eye out for a huge robber crab, You’ll be lucky to see one, but they are around! You might also spot some red crabs, found only on the Cocos Keeling Islands and Christmas Island.

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.

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!