The Islands A remote drop in the Indian Ocean
Of the 27 islands in the atoll, only two are inhabited: West Island and Home Island. Together, they are home to a small community of around 600 people, including approximately 450 Cocos Malay.
The Islands Warm weather, warmer welcome
Life here is simple, relaxed and shaped by the rhythm of the ocean. It’s a place where time slows down, nature takes centre stage and friendly locals are always ready to welcome visitors.
The main islands to explore
Most visitors spend time across West Island, Home Island and Direction Island, with regular ferry services connecting them. Beyond these main islands, the wider atoll can be explored with the help of local tour operators.
West Island
Home to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands airport, the Visitor Centre and the majority of accommodation, West Island is the practical base for many visitors. Stretching around 10 kilometres from end to end, it is best explored by car or bike.
This is where you’ll find many of the islands’ everyday essentials, along with a handful of places to eat, the local supermarket and access to many of the tours and experiences on offer. There are also plenty of places to discover at your own pace, from Trannies Beach and Scout Park to the golf course and quiet beaches.
Home Island
Home Island is the cultural heart of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and the home of the Cocos Malay people. Distinct from West Island in both atmosphere and experience, it offers visitors the chance to connect with the islands’ rich heritage, community life and local traditions.
A handful of locally run accommodation providers offer the opportunity to stay on Home Island and experience a different side of the atoll. Visitors can explore places of historical and cultural significance including Oceania House, the Pulu Cocos Museum and the picturesque foreshore, or join a local cultural tour for a deeper insight into island life. You’ll also find a supermarket, a small shopping precinct and local cafes serving traditional Cocos Malay cuisine.
Home Island is reached from West Island by ferry, which runs daily except Sunday. When visiting, please dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees.
Direction Island
No trip to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is complete without a visit to Direction Island. Spend the day lazing on the white sand of Cossie’s Beach, snorkel the famous Rip for an unforgettable underwater experience, or wander the island’s tracks to uncover its role in both World War I and World War II.
Direction Island can be reached by public ferry on Thursdays and Saturdays, or as part of a tour with one of the local skippers. Wonderfully undeveloped, it’s a place to disconnect and slow down — just be sure to bring your own food and water for the day.
Island hopping
Beyond the main visitor islands, several smaller islands can be explored on local tours or, in some cases, on foot at low tide.
Horsburgh Island Reminders of World War II
Visitors interested in the islands’ wartime history will enjoy a stop at Horsburgh Island, home to a pair of World War II cannons. Scenic and remote, it is best visited as part of a local boat tour.
South Island Wild and rugged
The second largest island in the atoll after West Island, South Island feels wild and untouched, with few visitors venturing beyond Paradise Beach.
Its lagoon shoreline offers excellent birdwatching, and there is also a small drift snorkel between South Island and Pulu Klapa Satu. It can be visited on the Motorised Canoe Tour.
Pulu Blan Madar and Pulu Blan Rare wildlife
The twin islands of Pulu Blan and Pulu Blan Madar are best reached on the Motorised Canoe Tour. Here, visitors can enjoy snacks on a beach once voted Australia’s best and keep an eye out for the rare blue-tailed skinks found on the islands.
Prison Island The coast is always changing
Located between Home Island and Direction Island, Prison Island is a striking example of the shifting nature of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. Only a few years ago, a stand of towering coconut palms rose from the island; today, it has been reduced to a small sandy cay.
The northern tip of the island offers a beautiful drift snorkel through a fish nursery and is best experienced on a local tour.
Pulu Maraya Mini-adventure from West Island
Pulu Maraya can be reached on foot from Scout Park at mid to low tide. It’s a simple little adventure and a great spot for an easy drift snorkel around the southern tip of the island.
A day on Cocos Keeling Islands
Join Strick & Fran for a look at island life.