SEVEN DAY CHRISTMAS ISLAND ITINERARY
Experience unforgettable adventures on Christmas Island.
a TROPICAL ISLAND ADVENTURE FOR THE NATURE LOVERS
Spectacular scenery, world-class diving, vibrant wildlife, off the beaten track experiences and a melting pot of cultures create a friendly, laid-back community to welcome nature lovers into an adventure like no other. This is a nature inspired journey that promises to draw you back to this special island time and time again. Welcome to Christmas Island. Christmas Island is located in the Indian Ocean, 2,600 kilometres northwest of Perth and 350 kilometres south of Indonesia. The tiny, reef fringed, Australian territory of Christmas Island captured the imagination of wildlife lovers everywhere when Sir David Attenborough, one of the world’s most respected naturalists, showed the world the extraordinary footage of millions of red crabs migrating to the ocean describing it as ‘one of the most memorable moments from his life’s work.’
Yet there’s so much more for you to experience here than this brief, albeit spectacular event. Christmas Island is home to an eclectic mix of flora and fauna above and below the surface. With almost two thirds of the island national park and surrounded by the second largest marine park in Australia, Christmas Island is teeming with experiences for the avid adventurer. The island is a harmonious fusion of Malay, Singaporean, Australian and Chinese heritage, offering the opportunity to experience cuisine, community, celebrations, and traditions from a host of religions and cultures. This extraordinary destination really is a nature lover’s paradise, and we invite you to dive on in for an island holiday you’ll remember forever.
A 7 DAY ISLAND ADVENTURE LIKE NO OTHER
DAY ONE |
FRIDAY FLIGHT PERTH TO CHRISTMAS ISLAND
Your journey commences at Perth International Airport, where you board your Virgin Australia flight bound for Christmas Island.
Arriving at the island airport, greet the friendly staff from the Christmas Island Visitor Centre, who welcome you to the island. Providing you with essential destination information, tour options, and island guides to help you get started on your adventure, you have all you need to dive in.
Dinner is back at your accommodation, as your private chef greets you, serving a gourmet 3 course meal, using fresh and locally foraged ingredients, right on your oceanfront deck. You’re staying in Christmas Island’s National Park, at one of the world’s most exclusive and remote luxury eco lodges, the award-winning, all-inclusive Swell Lodge. You’re surrounded by nature and as you step into your glass fronted eco-chalet, the 180-degree views of the Indian Ocean, coupled with the sound of the waves lapping the island shores, you're transported to what feels like paradise – only to realise, amidst the tranquillity and magnificence that surrounds you, that you are indeed already there. Adventure meets barefoot luxury on your Christmas Island experience.
Your stay at Swell Lodge is an all-encompassing experience, offering not just accommodation but a full suite of services designed to make your visit to Christmas Island unforgettable. Included in your stay are all meals, prepared by a private chef. Enjoy the luxury of an unlimited bar, daily guided tours to explore the natural beauty of the island, and comprehensive transport services throughout your stay. This package is meticulously curated by the exceptional Swell Lodge team, ensuring that every aspect of your island adventure is perfectly managed. It represents one of the best ways to experience the wonders of Christmas Island, with every detail thoughtfully taken care of for you.
For the adventurers eager to chart their own course across Christmas Island, we invite you to proceed with your personalised itinerary, exploring at your pace and leisure. Collect your hire car at the airport on arrival (4WD is essential as the roads outside the townships are unsealed) and head to the main settlement to check into your oceanfront, island-style lodging at The Sunset.
As the day transitions into evening, unwind at Le CLA, a cherished island-style restaurant known for its delightful blend of Malaysian, Chinese, and Australian flavours. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere on the veranda, taking in the stunning ocean views as you savour authentic dishes served with a smile. With the beautiful sunset marking the start of your Christmas Island getaway, you can't help but feel excited for the adventures that lie ahead.
DAY FOUR |
It’s day four and every morning on island time begins with a relaxing ocean swim to start your day. Head to Ethel Beach, a great spot for snorkelling. Fringed with dense tropical foliage, Ethel Beach is the quintessential Robison Crusoe beach experience. Situated on the eastern side of Christmas Island this stunning little beach is a favourite for locals and visitors.
After a revitalising morning swim, the adventure continues as you delve into the heart of Christmas Island's National Park, venturing into the enchanting Dales. This area, recognised as one of the island's two Ramsar protected wetlands, invites explorers to discover its wonders. Journey along the trail from Hughs Dale to Andersons Dale, where a breathtaking gorge cradles a meandering stream that gracefully flows to the sea. The Dales area is a Christmas Island icon. One of the only places on the island with flowing water all year round, these rain forested wetlands are home to mighty Tahitian chestnut trees, blue crabs and an array of rare and endemic species. The Hughs Dale hike leads to a permanent waterfall in the rainforest. There are seats and viewing areas along the trail as well as signs providing more information about the area’s plants and animals. The waterfall is also an important cultural site for local Chinese Buddhists, who regularly conduct ceremonies here.
Following your trek through the lush jungle, retreat to the Settlement area for a moment of relaxation in the natural splendour of The Grotto. A short 10-minute drive from the town unveils this peaceful haven, where a sandy-bottomed natural pool lies hidden under the glowing entrance of a sunlit cave. Here, in this secluded oasis, you can indulge in a cooling swim, enveloped by the gentle murmur of the ocean's whispers echoing through the cave, creating an almost magical atmosphere.
The nearby Christmas Island Golf Course invites you to enjoy an afternoon with a leisurely tee off on its lush fairways, set against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery. For a more active experience, trek the rugged trail to the Golf Course Lookout for awe-inspiring coastal vistas and the chance to spot exotic birds like red-footed boobies, endangered Christmas Island frigate birds and golden bosuns in their natural habitat.
By sunset it’s time for dinner at the Lucky Ho’s Chinese Restaurant, a local dining favourite, serving up authentic Chinese cuisine, reflecting the island's rich Chinese heritage, which accounts for 60% of its population. The Christmas Island community represents a dynamic fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Western cultures, weaving together a vibrant and rich cultural tapestry. This unique blend shapes a lively and diverse community, where traditions intertwine and create a colourful mosaic of cultural expressions.
DAY TWO |
Today you embark on an unparalleled aquatic adventure in Christmas Island’s enthralling waters, a sanctuary for underwater experiences like no other. Nestled on the edge of the Java Trench, the deepest point in the Indian Ocean, Christmas Island is a paradise for scuba diving, snorkelling, and freediving enthusiasts. Its location guarantees some of the planet's premier wall diving experiences in crystalclear waters, which you can enjoy with Christmas Island Wet & Dry Adventures and Extra Divers Christmas Island.
An early morning start, you hop onboard and cruise to one of the most spectacular dive sites on the island, Perpendicular Wall. Here, divers can encounter impressive pelagic species such as Tuna, Barracuda, and Reef sharks, not to mention the dazzling array of some of the eighty-eight coral species and over six hundred different species of fish that call Christmas Island home. The island’s waters are also home to friendly spinner dolphins, green and hawksbill turtles and majestic manta rays who come by to welcome you into their underwater world.
From November to April, the island becomes a stage for the mesmerising journey of whale sharks during their annual migration, offering lucky swimmers a rare opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants.
In the afternoon, immerse into your cultural explorations at the Mar Chor Nui Nui Temple, a Chinese homage to the Sea Goddess with its serene ocean views. The rich mosaic of cultures and stories make Christmas Island a treasure trove of cultural harmony that is fascinating to explore. Unlike any other location in Australia, Christmas Island is a place where Malay, Chinese, Australian, and European communities coexist peacefully, celebrating and embracing each other's traditions and festivities. This harmonious living is not just a way of life; it's the essence of the island's identity and everyone is welcome.
Following a day brimming with adventures, unwind beneath the whispering coconut palms at the oceanfront Rumah Tinggi Tavern & Restaurant. With an island cocktail in hand, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of some of the most spectacular views on the island, all while the sun gently sets on the horizon, painting the island hues of gold.
Complete your evening by relaxing in the magical experience of the Christmas Island Outdoor Cinema, where films are screened under a canopy of stars in the tropical night sky. This unique setting offers a chance to create lasting memories while enveloped in the captivating atmosphere of the island. Enjoy the charm of an open-air movie night, blending the allure of cinema with the natural beauty of your surroundings for an enchanting evening
DAY THREE |
Today, your adventure leads you to the enchanting Dolly Beach, a hidden gem of natural beauty, on an island tour with Indian Ocean Experiences (subject to availability).
All great days start with a good breakfast and your morning begins savouring the authentic flavours of the island with a scrumptious roti breakfast, accompanied by freshly brewed coffee from the Flying Fish Cafe Food Van, setting the perfect tone for the day's adventures.
Accompanied by your seasoned Indian Ocean Experiences tour guide, venture towards the Dolly Beach trailhead, marking the start of your castaway beach adventures. A serene two-kilometre walk through the vibrant rainforest awaits you, with a boardwalk that meanders through the lush greenery, leading you to the breathtaking beauty of Dolly Beach. This journey not only immerses you in the island's stunning natural landscapes but also sets the stage for an unforgettable experience at one of Christmas Island’s most secluded and stunning treasures.
Dolly Beach greets you with its pristine white sands, set against the dramatic backdrop of towering coconut palms, and caressed by the clear, azure embrace of shallow waters and a vibrant coral reef. Remember to bring a snorkel or hire one from the Visitor Centre to explore the underwater realm here. Don't miss the chance to relax in the natural rockpool at the heart of the beach, affectionately known as the Dolly Beach Spa. Keep an eye out for the giant friendly robber crabs, who are often the first to greet you on your arrival. The shores of Dolly Beach are also a haven for turtles, which nest here all year round, offering a unique glimpse into the unspoiled wildlife that calls this paradise home.
Following a day brimming with adventures, drive south through the rainforest to the awe-inspiring Blowholes. Witness the raw power of nature as the ocean's waves forcefully burst through numerous holes in the rocky coast, creating spectacular jets of water against a stark landscape of black rock pinnacles.
As the sun sets, painting the island skies pastel hues, you share stories of your day’s adventures with the island’s locals over a sundowner at The Golden Bosun Tavern, a laid-back pub offering stunning views of the ocean. Here, against the backdrop of a captivating sunset, you can savour a cocktail or enjoy the ice-cold tap beer, creating the perfect ease into your evening.
DAY SIX|
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at Smash Espresso, where you can indulge in barista-made coffee and freshly made smoothies, along with western style breakfast to fuel your adventures.
Today's highlight is a snorkelling trip with Zorora Charters, offering an immersive experience exploring the stunning oceanic sights surrounding Christmas Island. With an expert Skipper at the helm, prepare to discover some of the island's best-kept secrets and vibrant snorkelling spots. Dive into the crystal clear waters and swim alongside magnificent Giant Trevaly, marvel at the acrobatic displays of spinner dolphins, and explore coral gardens that stretch as far as the eye can see. Extra Divers CI and CI Wet & Dry Adventures also offers snorkelling tours, should Zorora be fully booked.
After a morning spent on the water, take some time to explore Wild Papaya, an enchanting gift store boasting an eclectic array of treasures, souvenirs, and unique art pieces. Here, you can select the perfect memento to commemorate your incredible island adventures. Then, make your way to the Visitor Centre, where you can purchase the final souvenirs to capture the essence of your unforgettable island memories.
In the afternoon, don't miss the captivating bird feeding and educational session led by the knowledgeable staff of Christmas Island National Park. This exceptional experience allows you to witness the care and feeding of rescued Christmas Island birds from an intimate perspective. A great opportunity to get some close-up photos and engage in an informative discussion about the ongoing rehabilitation efforts on the island. Keep an eye out for the rare and majestic Abbott’s Booby, an endangered species that calls Christmas Island its only home. This session promises not only a close encounter with the island's avian inhabitants but also a deeper understanding of the conservation work dedicated to their survival.
Soak in the magic of your last sunset on Christmas Island and reflect on the fun filled adventures that will call you back to this special destination time and time again.
DAY FIVE|
Day five unfolds with an exhilarating sea scooter journey around the waters of Flying Fish Cove, with Freedive Christmas Island. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to engage with the rich tapestry of marine life of The Cove, where you may even meet Cedric, the resident Hawksbill turtle.
Prepare to be captivated by the dramatic underwater landscapes, where coral gardens plunge into fathomless depths. Boasting some of the island's most diverse aquatic ecosystems, The Cove is a marine sanctuary accessible directly from the shore. With the aid of sea scooters, explore the sprawling reef's kaleidoscope of colours and life to your heart's content.
The adventure then continues with an electrifying e-mountain bike tour, with The Bike Kiosk Christmas Island. Embark on an exhilarating journey along jungle tracks that weave through the island's lush, biodiverse landscapes. This 60-minute expedition offers a unique way to fully engage with the natural beauty of Christmas Island, guided by experts who will lead you through hidden trails and secret spots.
The highlight of this adventure is a ride to the spectacular Margaret Knoll lookout. From this prime vantage point, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the island's east coast, making it an unparalleled spot to watch the island’s most renowned seabirds in their natural habitat. This experience promises not just a bike ride, but a memorable exploration of the island’s most captivating sights.
Tonight's dinner features freshly caught fish sourced from Shorefire Fishing & Tackle. Pair it with accompaniments picked up from the local supermarket, and don't overlook the addition of locally grown greens from Green Space Tech, readily available at most supermarkets on the island. As the sun begins its descent, fire up the barbecue for a meal with a view at Flying Fish Cove. With the serene backdrop of the sunset and the option for a leisurely evening swim, it's the perfect conclusion to your day, immersed in the beauty of Christmas Island.
DAY SEVEN|
Pack your breakfast to enjoy at Lily Beach, while watching the magnificent sunrise over the horizon. This tranquil setting provides the perfect backdrop for your final morning on the island and is one of the best places to enjoy sunrise.
With the tide just right, seize the opportunity for a refreshing morning swim and one last snorkel session to bid farewell to the vibrant marine life that has enchanted you throughout your stay.
Check in for your flight at Christmas Island Airport, ensuring you have plenty of time to go through security and board your plane.
After checking in, you can make your way to the Christmas Island Recreation Centre and treat yourself to a leisurely coffee and lunch at Kookaiz Cafe. Whether you're in the mood for a quick gym session, a refreshing swim in the pool, or simply relaxing at the cafe, take this time to unwind before your departure.
As your departure time approaches, make your way back to the airport, ensuring you arrive with ample time to board your flight. Reflect on your unforgettable experiences amongst this tropical paradise.
Australia's most awe-inspiring, natural moments come alive in Christmas Island's adventures. As your journey draws to a close, you marvel this one-of-a-kind destination. You’ve stepped away from the ordinary and embarked on a journey filled with experiences that will etch themselves into your memory, as some of the most unforgettable tales.
From the mesmerising depths of the ocean to the serene vistas of the island's lookouts and the enthralling wildlife at every turn, each moment is a testament to Christmas Island’s unparalleled beauty and biodiversity.
With every trail explored and sunset admired, the realisation dawns that there is still so much more to discover here.
Vibrant ecosystems and enchanting landscapes, Christmas Island is not just a destination but a call to the wild that resonates deep with every nature-loving traveller. It’s a place that beckons you to return, promising new adventures to unravel and more breathtaking moments to cherish. This is a place that will forever call you back for more.
Explore, rejuvenate, and stand in awe.
This is Christmas Island, A Natural Wonder.
WHILE YOU’RE HERE
Now that you’re inspired by an adventure filled itinerary of Christmas Island, it’s time to explore more about this paradise.
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.