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Cocos (Keeling) Island

Cocos Island Beach

The Cocos Islands are made up of a combination of 27 small islands, forming a U shaped coral atoll located 2700 kilometres north west of Perth in the Indian Ocean, with the nearest neighbour being Christmas Island 900 kilometres away to the east. There are only two inhabited islands, and all accommodation properties, shops and the airport are located on West Island. Step back in time as the old and the new mix in gentle quietness. Apart from a few new buildings and houses, the islands look as they did hundreds of years ago quiet, relaxing and beautiful.

The Cocos Islands are one of the most unique dive locations on the planet, with more than 25 neardeserted dive sites to visit, and visibility often in excess of 25 metres. The crystal clear warm waters are home to spectacular corals and plentiful marine life, over 100 different coral species including forests of delicate gorgonian fans or the beautiful soft leather plate corals. For more scary action, try out Shark Alley or Manta Ray Corner, their names speak for themselves. There is an amazing array of marine life including Barracuda, turtles, various shark species, dolphins, Manta Rays, Dogtooth and Yellowfi n Tuna, sailfish, butterfly fish and the endemic Cocos Angelfish.

Unwind on the various secluded islands within the atoll or immerse your self in the culture and history. For the adventure seekers, the waist deep tropical waters of the lagoon provide the perfect opportunity to windsurf and kite-surf with continuous breezes during the Southeast trade wind season. Try a glass-bottom boat tour or take up surfing at the secluded left hand break at the Surf Shack or The Spot. Sight Kat, the lone dugong, or local dolphins in the lagoon. The hidden inner lake offers bird lovers and ecologists the opportunity to view many species of flora and fauna, while the protected national park on North Keeling Island is home to many bird species including the endemic Cocos Buff Banded Rail and the famous World War I ship wreck, the SMS Emden.

Often described as a seemingly untouched paradise the islands offer a unique view into a by-gone era, with various styles of accommodation from cottages and bungalows to studios and houses available. Most accommodation is simple and clean with air-conditioning, fan and ensuite facilities right next to the beach. There are no large hotels or resorts and all fresh food is brought to the islands via air freight. There are a couple of local restaurants that provide authentic Malaysian cuisine or simple western meals at the Tropika Restaurant. Some of the accommodation has kitchens and there is a supermarket for self-catering.

Suggested Itineraries
Cocos (Keeling) Island - Tailor-made - Christmas & Cocos Islands Diving Experience - 17 days

Christmas & Cocos Islands Diving Experience - 17 days

Most people experience the diving of the Cocos Islands in combination with that of Christmas Island.