Christmas Island National Park
Region: Island-wide
Nature
Vast national park protecting virgin forest and limestone plateau. Hiking courses and wildlife observation popular.
Tourism in Christmas Island
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Flying Fish Cove
Region: Northeast
Nature / Historic Settlement
Natural harbor surrounded by coral reefs. Base for snorkeling and wartime ruin exploration.
Dolly Beach
Region: Southeast coast
Nature
One of the island's few sandy beaches. Famous as red crab spawning observation point.
Hosnies Spring (Ramsar Wetland)
Region: East coast
Nature
Unique wetland where mangroves and hot springs coexist. Bird watching thrives.
Golden Bosun Trail
Region: Western plateau
Trekking
Forest trail tracing former phosphate railway. Giant ferns and limestone caves highlights.
Blue Dog Reef
Region: North offshore
Diving
Oceanic point where drop-off plunges to deep sea with high whale shark encounter rate.
South Point Lighthouse Ruins
Region: Southern tip
Historic Site
Stone lighthouse ruins built in 1900. Spectacular Indian Ocean panorama from cliffs.
Gafour Cave
Region: Central plateau
Nature / Limestone Cave
Massive cave formed by limestone. Known as bat nesting site.
Crab Migration Observation Boardwalk
Region: Near Drumsite district
Nature / Viewing Facility
Elevated walkway installed to protect red crabs. During breeding season, red carpet spreads underfoot.
Tei Temple (Nanshan Temple)
Region: Poon Saan district
Cultural Facility
Taoist temple by Chinese residents. Large-scale ceremonies held during Lunar New Year.
Suggested itineraries
Red Crab Migration and Rainforest Enjoyment 4 Days
Duration (days): 4
Highlights: National park hiking, Dolly Beach spawning observation, Hosnies Spring, Local street food
Timed with early wet season, crab observation centered on early morning and dusk. Daytime jungle trail and mangrove exploration experiencing ecosystem.
Diver's Oceanic Drop-off Immersion 5 Days
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Blue Dog Reef, Wittenoom Wall, Night dive, Lighthouse ruins trekking
Boat touring oceanic points targeting manta and whale shark encounters. Afternoon sunset picnic at historic lighthouse ruins.
Multicultural Experience and Local Food 3 Days
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: Poon Saan street food, Mosque and temple visits, Territory Day parade, Night market
Visiting during festivals, touring Chinese and Malay community open houses while tasting sweets and street food in cuisine-focused course.
Travel tips
- Australian ETA or visa required before island entry.
- Main route is twice-weekly from Perth, check seasonal KL flight schedule.
- ATM only one in Settlement district. Prepare sufficient cash.
- Rental cars from only few companies, international license required.
- Dry season has low tide levels, suitable for snorkeling. Wet season visibility drops but fish density increases.
- Island buses are morning/evening school buses tourists can use. Check timetable at hotel.
- High sun exposure and humidity make hydration and sunscreen essential.
- Telstra roaming most stable for communications.
- National park entry fee not required but trail registration mandatory.
- Souvenirs cheaper at weekend markets. Weekday shop hours short.
- Crab fences may close roads, so allow flexibility in travel plans.
- Medical facilities only small clinic, severe cases airlifted to Perth. Travel insurance recommended.
- Drinking water safe but may become cloudy in wet season, so bottled water reassuring.
- Wi-Fi only at accommodations. Public Wi-Fi limited to airport.
- Wear reef boots for coral protection and injury prevention.