Plan your trip to Christmas Island

A territory of Australia, Christmas Island is in the Indian Ocean, west of Australia and south of Indonesia. The majority of the island is a tropical rain forest, and much of it (63 percent) is protected by the Christmas Island National Park system.

Outdoor enthusiasts can view the variety of endemic animal species on the island, namely the red crab and Christmas Island frigatebird. Birdweek, held in September, lures bird watchers from around the world to not only view the diverse range of birds, but also to help scientists band and catalog birds found on the island. Diving and snorkeling trips treat visitors to some of the longest drop-offs in the world, and a chance to see gentle whale sharks. Easier activities are also available on Christmas Island, from golf to hiking to leisurely beach walks.