West Island

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Introduction

West Island is the capital of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. The population is roughly 120 making it the least populated of the two inhabited islands, of which the other is Home Island (which has about 500 inhabitants). An airstrip was located here already during World War II. Apart from all government buildings, it contains a general store and the airport as well as tourist accommodations. But the real attractions for a visit here, is not the inhabited part but the tropical hideaway it is, together with the sometimes unusual flora and fauna.

Sights and Activities

Events and Festivals

Weather

West Island's weather is characterised by tropical conditions with not much variation regarding temperature, but rather a distinct dry and wet season. Humid conditions prevale but constant breezes make things bearable.
Temperatures range between 28 to 30 degrees Celcius during the day and 24-25 degrees at night throughout the year.
The wet season lasts from December to May, when tropical storms and cyclones are a real possibility. March and April usually are the wettest months. The dry period is from July to November, with the driest months from September onwards.

Getting There

By Plane

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands Airport is at West Island and there are two flights a week from Perth operated by National Jet Systems with an additional flight every fortnight or so. Some flights stop at Christmas Island as well, making travel between the two possible.

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Getting Around

By Plane

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Eat

Drink

Sleep