Flying Fish Cove, Christmas Island

In-depth country guide

Christmas Island

Rainforest above the Indian Ocean, red crabs below your feet and a remarkable island community.

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A country worth knowing

Make room for a different kind of journey.

This Australian Indian Ocean territory combines a working harbour and multicultural settlements with forest walks, dramatic cliffs and small beaches. Plan around the island’s natural rhythms, choosing a few well-paced outings from your base rather than trying to collect every viewpoint in a day.

First-time highlights.

01

Christmas Island · Harbour & community

Flying Fish Cove & Christmas Island on film

Christmas Island Tourism shares an introduction to the island’s history. Begin at Flying Fish Cove and give the community story as much attention as the landscape.

Explore Flying Fish CoveWatch the introduction ↗
Where to stayDirect accommodation contact
Historic remains in the Settlement precinct02

Christmas Island · Streets & heritage

Settlement

A base for daily life and an introduction to island history.

Explore Settlement
Where to stayDirect accommodation contact
Tai Pak Kong Temple in Settlement, island cultural context10
OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Christmas Island · Cultural landscapes

Island Temples

Places of worship within a changing island landscape.

Explore Island Temples
Where to stayDirect accommodation contact

Give each place its own time

Choose your next island story.

The journey is in the details.

Plan your visit →People, food & culture →
Sources, credits & editorial notes

Reviewed 11 November 2026. Pacing and base suggestions are ATA editorial choices. Accommodation links are direct enquiry points, not inspected-property endorsements or claims of ATA membership. Confirm current services, access and terms. Photographs are credited beside the images and may show earlier conditions.

Overview photography credits

Flying Fish Cove, Christmas Island, David Stanley · CC BY 2.0 · Display crop.

Historic remains in the Settlement precinct, KylieIsTravelling · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Display crop.

Hugh’s Dale Waterfall, David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada · CC BY 2.0 · Display crop.

A sprouting coconut at Dolly Beach, ChrisBrayPhotography · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Display crop.

East-coast view from Margaret Knoll, David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada · CC BY 2.0 · Display crop.

Christmas Island blowholes, David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada · CC BY 2.0 · Display crop.

Lily Beach, Christmas Island, David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada · CC BY 2.0 · Display crop.

The Grotto, Christmas Island, KylieIsTravelling · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Display crop.

Tai Jin House, David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada · CC BY 2.0 · Display crop.

Tai Pak Kong Temple in Settlement, island cultural context, David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada · CC BY 2.0 · Display crop.

Territory Day Park, KylieIsTravelling · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Display crop.