christmas island BEACHES
Explore Christmas Island’s diverse and one of a kind beaches.
ISLAND beaches
Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Christmas Island emerges from the sea, adorned with incredible beaches, lush jungles, and a vibrant underwater world. This idyllic island, born from the depths of an ancient volcanic rock over 60 million years ago, is a testament to Mother Nature's magic. Known for its turquoise-tinged facets, Christmas Island beckons travelers to adventure where hidden swimming spots, stunning seascapes, and a kaleidoscope of marine life await.
The beaches of Christmas Island each have unique offerings, some with white sands, others embraced by rugged cliffs and jungle hinterlands. Beyond the sun-kissed shores lies an underwater realm teeming with life, with endless coral gardens, accessible right from the beach.
Some of Christmas Island’s beaches are easily accessible for all, like Flying Fish Cove and Lily Beach. Others are hidden gems and require a bit of a hike to reach, though the reward is solitude and serenity amongst nature’s best; a private slice of paradise for those willing to explore off the beaten path.
As you plan your beach adventures, remember that sea conditions can change and to be aware of your abilities. Currents, swell, reef bombies, waves and changing tides are important to consider and we remind visitors to exercise caution and be aware of conditions when venturing Christmas Island’s beautiful waters. Please also help look after our marine ecosystem and ensure you do not stand on or touch the delicate reef.
FLYING FISH COVE
Nestled in the heart of Christmas Island's settlement area, Flying Fish Cove effortlessly blends laid-back charm with natural beauty. The phosphate port is located to the north of this beach, but head south, and you'll discover a serene haven where lush greenery meets white sands and pristine coral adorned shores. This beach is ideal for gatherings with gazebos, BBQ facilities (halal and non halal), showers, toilets, lockers and a sheltered swimming area right in front. The commercial jetty is accessible to the public unless stated otherwise, and provides an accessible platform to enjoy the aquatic world beneath the surface. Explore underwater wonders, snorkelling the endless reef, catch a wave if the swell's up, and top it all off with one of the island's stunning sunsets. Flying Fish Cove was ranked Australia’s 9th best beach for 2023 in Australia’s Best Beaches Annual Competition. Flying Fish Cove isn't just a beach; it's the epitome of Christmas Island's easygoing allure.
PIRATE COVE
Venture to the southernmost tip of Flying Fish Cove, beyond the boat ramp, and discover the hidden gem known as Pirate Cove. This secluded stretch of shoreline boasts mesmerizing rock formations submerged in the shallows of the reef. Equip yourself with reef shoes, and during low tide, delve into the enchanting rock pools that unveil a world of marine wonders. As the tide rises, this sheltered bay transforms into an idyllic haven, inviting you to indulge in excellent snorkeling and leisurely swims. Take breaks between aquatic adventures to unwind on the beach in the shade. Let paradise sweep you away as you relax into island time in Pirate Cove.
ethel beach
Fringed with dense tropical foliage, Ethel Beach is the quintessential Robison Crusoe beach experience. Situated on the eastern side of Christmas Island, down a 50m path, this stunning little beach is a favorite for locals and visitors. Beneath the overhanging pandanus that line Ethel Beach, this beautiful stretch of the island unveils its geological secrets, with occasional fossils and traces of blue coral rubble narrating its volcanic past. Dive into the inviting waters for a refreshing swim or explore the rock pools at low tide. Ethel offers stunning snorkelling with coral reef and vibrant marinelife extending from the shore. Strong currents can occur beyond the reef so caution is advised when exploring the waters here. Ethel Beach also featured in the Top 20 of the 2022 Australia’s Best Beaches annual list.
Lily Beach
Lily Beach is a picturesque keyhole beach, flanked by sheer cliffs on either side, creating a dramatic coastal panorama. This beach paradise is adorned with gazebos, equipped with tables and chairs, and features BBQ facilities catering to both halal and non-halal preferences, as well as a built in fire pit, creates an ideal setting for an oceanview picnic. Beneath the shade of the trees, Lily Beach reveals a large sandy-bottomed rock pool, especially inviting for young children during low tide when the waters are calm, although strong caution is warranted as powerful waves can make an unexpected entrance. During high seas, Lily Beach transforms into a captivating spectacle, providing a front-row seat to the exhilarating display of waves crashing against the cliffs. For nature enthusiasts, a scenic boardwalk tracing the cliff edge between Lily Beach and Ethel Beach unveils Brown Boobys and Red Footed Boobys nesting on the cliffs, while intermittent blow-holes add a touch of intrigue to your coastal stroll. Lily Beach is a harmonious blend of natural wonders and inviting amenities, promising a memorable coastal experience.
GrETA beach
A brief 300 meter stroll from the car park, followed by a descent down a steep staircase perched atop a seaside cliff, and you'll find yourself at Greta Beach. At the stairway's entrance, signs ask you to join the ongoing effort to preserve Greta's pristine beauty by taking a bag and participating in the beach clean-up. Unfortunately, Greta serves as a collection point for plastic flotsam and jetsam carried ashore by ocean currents, making this communal effort crucial. Throughout the year, turtles find refuge on this stretch, with the beach hosting a constant nesting cycle. Additionally, during the annual migration, a bustling congregation of red crabs makes Greta Beach their spawning ground. By lending a hand in removing plastic during your visit, you contribute to safeguarding the nesting turtles and our island ecosystem. Greta Beach unveils a unique charm, featuring a dreamy ocean pool during the right tides and dramatic cliff faces that transport you to a world of scenic wonder.
dolly Beach
Nestled a thirty-minute scenic drive from Setttlement and a 2km hike through the jungle, Dolly Beach stands as a serene haven teeming with wildlife and natural wonders. Accessible through a 1.8km, mostly boardwalked jungle path, this secluded paradise, adorned with coconut palms and a vibrant coral reef, offers the perfect escape, that you’ll often have all to yourself. Witnessing marine turtles nesting along its shores, marked by tracks of adults and hatchlings, adds to the enchantment, along with a welcome from the friendly giant coconut crabs here. This spectacular beach, with freshwater stream, and dreamy palm lined shores make Dolly Beach an inviting camping spot. Please ensure you apply for a camping permit with Christmas Island National Parks if you do want to camp here. Regarded among the island's most secluded gems, this deserted haven, set against a backdrop of overhanging coconut palms and shallow rock pools, invites locals and visitors to unwind amidst its pristine beauty, offering an immersive natural experience, where you feel like castaways in paradise.
WEST WHITE beach
Nestled on the island's north coast, West White Beach captivates with its white sands, surrounded by towering forests and met by a spectacular reef, accessible just off the shore. The journey to this coastal treasure involves a bit of a challenging treck through the rainforest, with a steep cliff descent aided by a rope, requiring sturdy walking shoes and ample water. Visible from Settlement, this white coral beach is an ideal day trip destination, with a 1.5 km trail meandering through a descent amongst tall plateau and rainforest. Should the uphill return seem daunting, a boat transfer can be arranged with the island's dive charter operators. The reward for the effort is undeniable; West White Beach offers splendid views and invites visitors to linger and enjoy all the secluded magic of this pristine coastal beauty.
MERRIAL Beach
Merrial Beach, Christmas Island's smallest yet most enchanting coastal gem, lies nestled at the Dales on the island's picturesque west coast. Accessible only at low tide, this tiny haven boasts mesmerizing white sands embraced by rugged rocky overhangs, rendering it a favorite canvas for photographers. The journey to Merrial Beach unveils a rustic track, demanding a bit of climbing and maneuvering through dense vegetation. However, the effort invested in navigating this rough terrain is richly rewarded by the sight of a pristine, white-sand beach cocooned between grotto-like rocky overhangs, making every step of the 1km track well worth the journey.
THE GROTTO
Though not a beach, The Grotto is an incredible swimming spot. Approximately ten minutes drive from Settlement, located just before the golf course and a short 30m walk, this hidden gem will take your breath away. A mini cave with mix of sea and fresh water pool, The Grotto offers a refreshing dip after your island adventures or enjoy a romantic date night by adding candles to beautifully light this dreamy cave. The wave motion through narrow openings provides a powerful ocean symphony and the glistening turquoise blue of the crystal clear water is magical. This sandy-floored hidden pool, drenched with streaks of sunlight flowing in from the entrance of the cave, adds another layer of enchantment to your island adventures.
CHRISMAS ISLAND ITINERARIES.
How to experience the best Christmas Island has to offer... from wandering to secluded stretches of paradise and encountering those bucket list wildlife moments, to taking the plunge to depths you’ve never ventured.