Explore the regions of Christmas Island
The Settlement
The Settlement is one of the oldest areas on Christmas Island. It’s home to the island’s main shops, post office, cafes and a small beach popular for swimming. You’ll find beautifully preserved colonial buildings and the historic Administrator’s House, which offer a glimpse into the island’s past. This area is ideal for relaxed walks and cultural sightseeing.
Kampong
Located close to The Settlement, Kampong is where many of the island’s Chinese and Malay communities live. Here, you’ll discover colourful homes, local eateries and Tai Jin House. It’s a popular tourist attraction offering a historical view on the island. Kampong is a great place to try traditional dishes, attend local events and connect with the island’s rich multicultural heritage.
Poon Saan
Poon Saan sits high on the island’s central plateau and offers cooler breezes, lush gardens and a peaceful village vibe. It's the second-largest community on the island, with a strong Chinese heritage. You'll find local shops, parks and a hawker-style food court serving up island favourites. Poon Saan is a great place to slow down and enjoy everyday island life.
Silver City & Drumsite
Silver City, once built to house expatriate workers, features homes clad in silver-painted aluminium. It’s a quiet area that reflects the island’s layered history. Nearby Drumsite, perched on higher ground, offers scenic walking trails and access to viewpoints overlooking the ocean. Both areas are great for exploring on foot and spotting local wildlife in the surrounding bushland.
Flying Fish Cove & Coastal Areas
Flying Fish Cove is the island’s main harbour and most popular swimming spot. It offers some of the best snorkelling and shore diving in Australia. Coral reefs start just metres from the beach. Between November and April, you may spot spinner dolphins or even a passing whale shark.
Christmas Island National Park & Inland Jungle
Over 60% of the island is protected national park. Jungle trails lead to blowholes, waterfalls and sea cliffs. The forest is home to red crabs, giant geckos and rare birds. This is the best place to witness the island’s most famous event—the annual red crab migration. For more details about the flora and fauna found on Christmas Island, head to the DCCEEW website.
Red Crab Migration on Christmas Island
Every year between October and December, millions of red crabs leave the rainforest and march to the ocean to spawn. Their timing depends on the first rains and the moon’s cycle. If you want to see the migration in full, visit during the wet season. However, red crabs are visible year-round.
Diving & Snorkelling Adventures
Christmas Island sits at the edge of the Java Trench, giving it some of the world’s longest coral drop-offs. Scuba diving here is a bucket-list experience. Clear waters and mild temperatures make it ideal all year. From November to April, divers may also encounter dolphins, reef sharks and whale sharks.
Best Time to Visit Christmas Island
The island has a tropical climate with warm temperatures between 25°C and 30°C all year. The dry season runs from April to November and is perfect for outdoor activities. The wet season, from November to March, is more humid and brings evening rain, but it’s also the best time for wildlife.
Book your Christmas Island Holiday
Ready to discover one of Australia’s last true island frontiers? BKB Holidays can help you create the perfect itinerary. Speak to our expert team today.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Weather & Seasons
Tropical climate year-round (25–30°C). Dry season: April–November. Wet season: November–March.
Currency & Tipping
Australian dollars are used. Tipping isn’t expected but appreciated for great service.
Time Zone
Christmas Island Time is GMT +7 hours. No daylight saving.
Language
English is widely spoken. You’ll also hear Malay and Chinese dialects.
Transport
Hire cars are the best way to explore. Taxis and pre-booked transfers are also available.
Cuisine
Enjoy a mix of Malay, Chinese and Aussie flavours. Seafood and noodle dishes are local favourites.
Dress Code
Light, casual clothes are best. Bring reef shoes and cover up when visiting temples.
CHRISTMAS ISLAND REGIONS
Flying Fish Cove & Coastal Areas
Top snorkelling spot with coral reefs, dolphins and whale sharks near the main port.
Kampong
Cultural village with temples, traditional cuisine and vibrant Chinese and Malay heritage.
Poon Saan
Peaceful highland area with gardens, food stalls and local charm on Christmas Island’s plateau.
Silver City & Drumsite
Quiet historic areas with scenic views, walking trails and access to forest wildlife..
The Settlement
Historic hub with colonial buildings, shops, cafes and a calm beach for swimming and relaxing.
Xmas Island National Park & Inland Jungle
Rainforest sanctuary with hiking trails, blowholes, red crabs and rare birdlife.
