Cocos Islands, on the Indian Ocean, are 27 coral islands formed by two big atolls with dense vegetation that were once visited by Darwin, as their ecosystem has been untouched for centuries. Among these 27 islands, North Kelling is completely uninhabited, and it offers many rarities in fauna and flora.
Cocos Islands also have some of the best beaches in Asia thanks to the crystal water, amazing palm trees (growing both in vertical and horizontal lines), and bright white sand. Among these, the most outstanding one is Trannies Beach, on West Island.
On Cocos islands, there are not big hotels but you can stay in local people´s homes at convenient prices, which offers you the opportunity to better understand the local culture.
If you love diving you must visit the Rip on Direction Island, where you will be able to practise diving with sharks. Or you can go to Northpoint at midnight when the moon is full, to observe how hundreds of crabs go into the water, offering an amazing show.
The island also has very good trekking tours, travelling from the coast to the interior, to discover a hidden paradise of strange native animals and the most varied vegetation.
But the essential activity on Cocos is enjoying the beaches: a deck chair, a good book, gentle breeze and relaxing swimming.
You can take a direct flight from Perth in Australia, at any time of the year, as the temperatures are always ideal.
