Find out what makes Christmas Island tick and find help with planning your holiday to Christmas Island.

Logistics

Christmas Island is a unique place at a special time in its evolution. Currently in transition between its mining past and tourism future, it is not your typical tropical island holiday destination.

The mining equipment is still a major feature of the town areas; in stark contrast to its lush rainforest and limestone cliff backdrop. ‘Island Time’ is a popular phrase used to explain anything from why your hire car is late, to why the fish and chip shop is not open today. The relaxed lifestyle here can sometimes be frustrating and unfathomable to the visitor but if you can relax, you will start to feel the warmth and generosity take over.

Getting Here

Look for the Dive tanks outside Wet’n'Dry

There are currently three flights per week into Christmas Island. Two per week from Perth (one direct and one via Cocos Keeling Islands) with National Jet Systems (a QANTAS partner); and one direct from Singapore with AustAsia airlines, who charter Silk Air planes/crew.

See CITA’s website for more detailed information about flights.

Staying Here

While Christmas Island doesn’t boast any major 5-Star resorts, the accommodation available is all very clean, well serviced and diverse in range. Don’t expect room service or valets, but friendly and genuinely helpful service. Many places don’t have any reception, so it pays to ask questions before you arrive.

Chinese Temple

There are many options from self-contained to serviced rooms with a pool+ view. See the Christmas Island Tourism Associations’ (CITA) excellent accommodation review for more details.

Getting Around

At the moment there is unfortunately no regular taxi or bus service available on the island.

Some hotels/resorts offer transfers to and from the airport; ask when booking.
CITA hire bicycles, but with some major hills in play, this really only helps for cruising around the lower parts of town (or for the superfit).
Wet’n’Dry also offer transfers from hotels to the boat launching area daily.

However, if you are interested in exploring a bit of the island after diving, or just want to go out to dinner at night, you really should think about hiring a car. A 4WD is most versatile as this allows you to go on any of the interesting trails around the island. There are 2 car hire companies on the island who have a limited number of vehicles. If you really want a car it is important that you book before you arrive.

Helpful Stuff to Know

Island Style Communication

Visas: CI is Australian external Territory so Australian Immigration rules apply. For Australian immigration information, go to: www.immi.gov.au
Currency: $Australian Dollars
Languages: Mandarin, Cantonese, Malay, English and several other Chinese dialects.
Religions: Buddhist, Baha’i, Christian, Muslim.

Christmas Island Tourism Association website is a wealth of information; Check Out: