SELF GUIDED ACTIVITIES

ATOLL WALKING
When the tides are favourable it is possible to explore most of the more remote islands of the southern atoll. Local knowledge is recommended before setting out.

For tidal information visit: WA Tidal Information

BEACHCOMBING
Wander along the foreshore at any time of the day and explore.

BIKE RIDING
Head to Northpoint or Bobs Folly where enormous Alexandrian Laurels are nestled amongst the coconut palms, Rumah Baru or just explore many of the tracks that lead towards the lagoon.

BIRD WATCHING
Although the southern atoll lacks the necessary vegetation to attract the concentrated birdlife that is found on North Keeling atoll, many species do nest and visit. White Terns, noddies, wading fowl, night herons, jungle fowl are just to name a few of the southern atoll's birdlife. It is possible to see frigates and booby birds in flight from West Island. A small population have returned to Horsburgh and South Island. Access to these two islands is limited.

Take time to explore many of the roads & tracks on West Island by push bike image courtesy of: Cocos Barefoot Photography

CRAB SPAWNING
On or around the full moon head up to Northpoint or the West Island Jetty and watch hundreds of land crabs make their way to the water to deposit their eggs. The spawning is dependant on the weather as the crabs need rain in order to make their pilgrimage to the water.

DIRECTION ISLAND
Direction Island boasts the best swimming beach on the southern Atoll. Catch the ferry on Saturday and most Thursday's (check schedule) and head over to this picturesque island for a day of relaxing or snorkelling the famous Rip, a marine reserve. The Rip is a strictly NO FISHING zone. We would ask anyone considering fishing whilst on Direction Island to do so west of the Jetty, away from the popular swimming area.

During the months of June through to October the safe anchorage is home to a colourful array of yachts and their owners who are travelling the world. Check out the shelter where hundreds of "calling cards" have been left by the visiting yachties. Direction Island is steeped in history being the island where the crew from the SMS Emden came ashore to destroy the Cable Station during WWI. However this was foiled by the HMAS Sydney I and thus Australia's first naval victory was won. Ruins of the Cable Station still remain amongst the cabbage bush and sea almond trees.

REMEMBER,,, PLEASE KEEP DIRECTION ISLAND CLEAN

Spend a relaxing day on the beach at Direction Island image courtesy of: CR-Photo

FISHING
Grab a rod or hand caster and head to the any of the beaches or the jetty to do a spot of fishing. Check with the locals as to when is the best time to catch your "catch of the day".

GOLF
Playing golf on Cocos certainly takes on a different perspective - airborne hazards! The course is located either side of the Cocos International Airport runway. Scroungers is held every Thursday afternoon and this is the perfect time for visitors to play a fun game of Ambrose with locals. Strict restrictions apply to crossing the runway, so visitors need to contac the Golf Club and the Airport Manager prior to playing golf. Crossing the runway without permission imposes penalties of up to AUD$5000.00. Please contact the Tourism Office for further information.

HISTORICAL TRAIL
The Bicentennial Trail leads from near Mahoon Road up to the jetty via Trannies. It provides access to remote sections of beach that don't have vehicle access.

HOME ISLAND
Catch the local bus then the ferry from West Island Jetty and visit Home Island. You are free to walk around the Kampong, stroll past Oceania House, the original school buildings and stately Alexandrian Laurel Trees. Also a must see is the cemetery located at the northern end of Home Island. Buses run Monday to Saturday from West Island to coincide with the ferry. Timetables are available from the Tourism office,Telecentre and Cocos Duty Free.

KITE-BOARDING / WIND SURFING
During the tradewind season traditionally July through to September the southern end of the lagoon at the Yacht Club is a colourful display of sails and kites. Even if you aren't a participant, it's great fun just to watch as the riders and kiters zoom along in the wind.

For information relating to predicted Winds on Cocos visit: Buoyweather
For information relating to Tides visit: WA Tidal Information

REEF WALKING
Being a coral atoll the Cocos is totally surrounded by reef. Even if you are not able to snorkel you can still see many of the beautiful marine creatures, corals and sea grass close to shore. Tiny moray eels, sea urchins, beautiful marine fish, sea cucumbers, turtles and colourful clams are usually found in relatively shallow water. Be aware that protective footwear is a must and don't forget, you are possibly walking on someone's home!

SNORKELLING
Trannies to the north, or Scout Park and Pulu Maraya to the south offer snorkellers an underwater paradise. Turtles, marine fish, corals, beautiful cowries and moray eels are often spotted whilst drifting along. Please note that collecting live shells is prohibited by law.

Snorkelling the many coral bombies. image courtesy of: Don Fuchs

SURFING
Cocos has one fairly consistent left-hand break located just out of town, called the Surf Shack. Come during the tradewind season to enjoy this great surfing spot. Cocos locals tend to go surfing after work, so as tourists you can enjoy the break for most of the day. Please show good surfing etiquette if the break becomes too busy.

TENNIS
Visitors are welcome to use the Islands' tennis court's.

TURTLE & MANTA RAY SPOTTING
A year round activity enjoyed by tourists and locals. Head up to the jetty in the evenings to watch the numerous turtles pop up their heads to take a breath before submerging. Sometimes you may even be treated with mantas cruising around the jetty.

ACTIVITIES OF VARIOUS COCOS CLUBS
All visitors are welcome to join in the activities of local Cocos Clubs like the Hash House Harriers which have their weekly run on Tuesday commencing 4.30pm.