Diving Christmas Island: The Galapagos of the Indian Ocean
April 26, 2025
Christmas Island, often dubbed the "Galapagos of the Indian Ocean," is a remote Australian territory renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity, both on land and beneath the surface. Situated approximately 350 kilometers south of Java, Indonesia, and about 1,550 kilometers northwest of the Australian mainland, this island offers an extraordinary diving experience that remains relatively untouched by mass tourism.
Two Christmas Islands, One Big Difference
It is essential to differentiate Australia’s Christmas Island from Kiritimati (also known as Christmas Island) in Kiribati. While both share the festive name, they are distinct locations:
- Christmas Island (Australia): Located in the Indian Ocean, this island is famed for its red crab migration, diverse marine life, and dramatic underwater drop-offs.
- Kiritimati (Kiribati): Situated in the Pacific Ocean, Kiritimati is the world’s largest coral atoll, known for its expansive lagoons and significant seabird populations.
This article focuses on diving Christmas Island, Australia’s hidden gem in the Indian Ocean.
The Allure of Diving Christmas Island
If you are looking for remote, world-class diving far from the crowds, Christmas Island should be at the top of your list. Diving Christmas Island is an experience like no other. The island’s steep drop-offs begin just meters from shore, plunging into the deep blue where whale sharks, dolphins, and schools of trevally glide through warm, crystal-clear waters. With visibility often reaching 50 meters, you are guaranteed front-row seats to a spectacular underwater world.
What makes diving Christmas Island so unique is its wildness. Here, nature still rules. Coral gardens sprawl across the reef slopes, untouched by mass tourism. Reef sharks, turtles, and massive coral formations are part of a thriving marine ecosystem, as are ghost pipefish, harlequin shrimps, and dragon moray eels. Seasonal visitors like whale sharks add to the thrill.
Combine this with the island’s topside charm—tropical rainforest, rare bird species, and the annual red crab migration—and you have a dive destination that delivers both underwater magic and land-based wonder.
Top Dive Sites on Christmas Island
With over 60 world-class dive sites, you are spoilt for choice when diving Christmas Island. Here are a few of the many highlights of this unique island:
1. Thundercliff Cave
This dramatic site features a vast cave with beautiful blue light effects and thousands of schooling bullseye fish. You can ascend into the huge air-filled dome of the cave which features impressive stalactites and stalagmites. This dive site is not to be missed.
2.Flying Fish Cove
Just steps from town, this accessible shore dive is perfect for beginners and boasts hundreds of fish species. Expect to see reef fish, nudibranchs, and occasional turtles. It is also a great place to catch glimpses of the red crab migration.
3.West White Beach
West White Beach is one of the largest beaches on the island and features a spectacular hard coral reef with vibrant coral gardens, abundant macro life, and the occasional eagle ray cruising by. It is ideal for wide-angle and macro photography alike.
4.Egeria Point
This exposed dive site boasts fringing reef slopes and a pinnacle teeming with life. Grey reef sharks, whitetip sharks, barracuda, wahoo, and large schools of fish are frequently seen here. It is a deeper dive suited for those with advanced certification.
The Red Crab Migration Underwater
The annual red crab migration is one of the most iconic events on Christmas Island. From around October to December, millions of red crabs march from the forest to the ocean to spawn. While this is an incredible topside spectacle, it is also visible underwater.
Divers can witness these bright red crustaceans descending rocky slopes and coral outcrops, often moving in massive groups. It is a surreal sight—like watching a slow-moving current of red pour across the reef. Planning your dive trip around this natural phenomenon adds a unique and unforgettable layer to the experience.
Is Christmas Island Right For You?
Diving Christmas Island suits a range of divers, but it is especially rewarding for:
- Intermediate to Advanced Divers: Many sites are deep wall dives, with strong currents and drop-offs best handled by those with some experience.
- Underwater Photographers: From wide-angle reefscapes and pelagics to rare macro species, there is a wide range of subjects to capture.
- Adventure Seekers: The remote nature and untouched reefs make this ideal for divers who love the feeling of exploration.
There are also beginner-friendly sites, making it possible for newer divers to enjoy the underwater scenery with a guide.
Best Time for Diving Christmas Island
Diving is possible all year, but each season offers something special:
- November to April: Whale shark season. Warm water, calm seas, and big fish action.
- May to October: Drier conditions and slightly cooler temperatures. Excellent visibility and great all-around diving.
- November to December: Bonus topside event: the red crab migration, a natural phenomenon where millions of crabs blanket the island on their way to the sea.
Water temperatures range from 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F), and dive sites are accessible by boat or from shore.
Travel Tips
- Bring Your Own Gear: Dive shops are limited, so it is a good idea to bring your own well-maintained equipment.
- Book in Advance: Flights and accommodation can fill up during peak seasons like whale shark season or crab migration.
- Stay Connected: There is mobile reception and Wi-Fi, but both can be patchy. Enjoy the digital detox.
- Health & Safety: Medical facilities are limited, so bring any personal medications you need and make sure you have travel and diving insurance.
Local Dive Operators and Resorts
Christmas Island has a small but experienced community of dive professionals who offer guided dives, gear rental, and training. If you are looking to get certified or take a specialty course, look for a local SSI-affiliated dive center. These local centers are known for their commitment to safety and personalized service, often catering to small groups and offering flexible dive schedules.
While options are limited due to the island’s remote nature, what you will find is high-quality, eco-conscious service. Most resorts offering dive packages are locally owned and situated close to popular dive sites. Booking in advance is essential, especially during peak seasons.
Eco-Conscious Diving
With such a pristine environment, conservation is a top priority on Christmas Island. Divers are encouraged to follow low-impact diving practices: maintain good buoyancy control, avoid touching marine life, and use reef-safe sunscreen. Some local divers participate in conservation initiatives, helping to protect this unique ecosystem.
The remote and undeveloped nature of the island makes it an ideal destination for those who want to dive sustainably. Supporting local operators helps preserve the environment and ensures that future generations can experience the magic of diving Christmas Island.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Christmas Island is via direct flight from Perth, Australia. Virgin Australia operates weekly flights, and some itineraries include a stop at the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. The flight takes around 3.5 to 4 hours.
Once on the island, rental cars are available and are the best way to explore. Drive on the left and watch out for crabs crossing the road during migration season!
Plan Your Dive Adventure
Diving Christmas Island is one of the last truly wild dive experiences. With jaw-dropping drop-offs, vibrant reefs, and an unbeatable sense of remoteness, it is a bucket list destination for divers who crave something extraordinary.
Ready to dive in? Find an SSI-certified dive center and plan your next adventure.