West Island is home to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands’ airport and most of the accommodation across the island group. So if you’re looking for a place to stay, it’s worth searching West Island as a destination in its own right.
Art and activities on West Island
The Big Barge Art Gallery displays original local artworks for sale. It is located in the hull of the restored Big Barge. The collection includes paintings, photographic canvases, textiles, carvings and jewellery—different forms of local art in one place.
The Cocos Club also offers opportunities to take part in activities: visitors can join Hash House Harriers activities and play golf. Details are posted on the noticeboard outside the club. Both activities are usually organised by volunteers; check there for the latest arrangements.
A nearby destination: Pulu Maraya
Pulu Maraya is near West Island and can be reached on foot from Scout Park at mid to low tide. At the southern tip, you can spot fish beneath the rock overhangs on a drift snorkelling trip. Access depends on the tide, so take this into account when planning your trip.
Ferries and getting around
Rumah Baru, about five kilometres north of the settlement on West Island, is the departure point for ferries to Home Island and Direction Island. The public ferry to Direction Island runs twice a week from West Island and Home Island, on Thursdays and Saturdays. As ferry details can change, check the current timetable before travelling.
More destinations on the Cocos Islands
On Home Island, local operators run guided cultural tours with activities such as snorkelling, diving, island hopping and fishing. Other experiences there include Ossie’s Culture Tour and traditional crafts such as basket weaving and woodwork. Tour and activity offerings may vary; check current availability.
Direction Island offers different highlights: it is home to Cossie’s Beach and a lagoon with crystal-clear water. The Rip is a natural drift-snorkelling site. The surrounding sea is home to reef fish, colourful corals, reef sharks, Napoleon wrasse and parrotfish; sightings may vary. Check local conditions before entering the water. Wood-fired barbecues and shaded pondoks (shelters) are available for picnics. As facilities can change, confirm what is currently available on site. The highlights differ: Home Island offers cultural experiences and traditional crafts, while Direction Island offers nature-watching while drift snorkelling and places to picnic. Comparing culture and crafts on the one hand with marine life and time outdoors on the other can help you choose the experiences that interest you most as you plan.
For the wider travel overview: Cocos Islands.
