Yes, unless you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Check Australian visa requirements.

What currency is used?

Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards accepted at most hotels and larger shops; cash needed for small vendors.

Is there an ATM on the island?

Yes, one ATM in Flying Fish Cove, but it may run out of cash. Bring sufficient cash.

Can I swim at the beaches?

Yes, but be aware of strong currents and stinger season (October-May). Wear stinger suits.

What wildlife can I see?

Red crabs, coconut crabs, seabirds, and whale sharks (seasonal). Do not touch or feed animals.

Is there mobile phone coverage?

Limited but available in Flying Fish Cove and major roads. Telstra is the main provider.

Are there any cultural festivals?

Chinese New Year, Easter, and the Christmas Island Cup (horse racing) are celebrated.

Flying Fish Cove

CityChristmas Island, Asia

Flying Fish Cove is a CITY in Christmas Island, Asia.

Flying Fish Cove, the capital of Christmas Island, is a serene tropical haven where lush rainforest meets the turquoise Indian Ocean. This remote Australian territory offers world-class snorkeling, pristine coral reefs, and the famous annual red crab migration. Explore the island's unique wildlife, including endemic birds and giant coconut crabs, or relax on secluded beaches like Dolly Beach. The cove itself is a picturesque settlement with a small jetty, local shops, and a laid-back atmosphere. Dive into the clear waters to see vibrant marine life, or hike through the national park to discover hidden waterfalls and limestone caves. With its multicultural heritage blending Chinese, Malay, and European influences, Flying Fish Cove provides a peaceful escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Best time to visit Flying Fish Cove

The best time is during the dry season from April to November, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are pleasant (24-28°C). This period also coincides with the red crab migration (usually October-December), a spectacular natural event. December to March is wetter and hotter, but still enjoyable for diving.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 24-28°C, dry

Travel notes

Crowds: High
Prices: High

Red crab migration peak

Know before you go

Getting there

XCH

Christmas Island Airport

Domestic/International

5 km away

Getting around

"Renting a car is the most practical way to explore the island, with several rental agencies in Flying Fish Cove. Taxis are limited and must be pre-booked. Bicycles can be rented for short trips. There is no public bus system. Walking is feasible within the cove. Roads are well-maintained but narrow in places."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

10 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Available at hotels and some cafes in Flying Fish Cove

Local SIM

Local SIM (Telstra) available at the airport or post office from $10

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; scams are rare but be cautious with rental deposits.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; scams are rare but be cautious with rental deposits.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Flying Fish Cove is very safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions: lock valuables, avoid walking alone at night on unlit roads. Be cautious near cliffs and rocky shores due to strong currents. Wildlife, including crabs and seabirds, is protected; do not disturb. Road conditions can be winding; drive carefully. Cyclones are rare but possible November to April."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Entry and health

Health information

"Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. No specific health risks, but medical facilities are limited; a basic clinic is available in Flying Fish Cove. For serious emergencies, evacuation to Perth may be necessary. Bring personal medications and a comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is recommended. Mosquito-borne diseases are rare, but use repellent for comfort."

Culture

Local customs

"Christmas Island has a relaxed, multicultural atmosphere. Dress modestly when visiting local villages or religious sites. Greetings are friendly but informal. Tipping is not expected. Respect the environment: do not litter or remove shells, crabs, or plants. Photography of locals is polite with permission. English is widely spoken."

EnglishFijianMaoriSamoanTonganHawaiianFrench (New Caledonia)

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15-25 | a meal at a local restaurant costs $15-25

Hotels

$80-150 | mid-range hotels range $80-150/night

Local transport

$50-70 | car rental per day $50-70

Cost notes

Prices are higher due to remote location; groceries and fuel are expensive.

Timezone

Indian/Christmas
Local time 06:11

More facts

Population

500

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Flain-Fish-Kouv, Flaing Fish Kouv, Flajing Fish Kouv, Flajing-Fish-Kouv, Flayinq Fis Kouv, Flayinq Fiş Kouv, Flying Fish Cove, Kampong, The Settlement, fala'iga fisa kova, fei yu wan, flay xing fich khof, flayngh fysh kwf, flayyng fsh kww, peullaingpisikobeu, phla'inga phisa kova, pilaiyin pis kov, plaing-pishi, Флаинг Фиш Коув, Флайинг-Фиш-Коув, Флаін-Фіш-Коўв, Флајинг Фиш Коув, فلائینگ فش کوو, فلاينغ فيش كوف, फ्लाइंग फिश कोव, ਫ਼ਲਾਇੰਗ ਫ਼ਿਸ਼ ਕੋਵ, பிளையிங் பிஷ் கோவ், ฟลายอิงฟิชโคฟ, ფლაინგ-ფიში, フライング・フィッシュ・コーブ, 飞鱼湾, 플라잉피시코브, Christmas Island, Weihnachtsinsel, Île Christmas, Božićni otok, クリスマス島, 크리스마스 섬, Vianočný ostrov, 圣诞岛

Capital CityMajor HubBeachHikingDivingWildlifeRemoteNature