Christmas Island
Southeast Asia · territory
Christmas Island is a territory in Southeast Asia, home to 1,700 people, with an area of 135 km². Its capital is Flying Fish Cove.
- Capital
- Flying Fish Cove
- Population
- 1,700
- Area
- 135 km²
- Region
- Southeast Asia
- Density
- 12.6 / km²
- Status
- Dependency or territory
Population: UN World Population Prospects, 2024 revision. Area: CIA World Factbook.
What Christmas Island is known for
Christmas Island is best known for Red crab migration, National Park and Diving and Snorkeling.
Christmas Island is a territory of Australia located in the Indian Ocean, about 2,600 kilometers northwest of Perth. The island is known for its unique wildlife and natural beauty, particularly its red crab migration.
Christmas Island at a glance
- Language
- English is the official language
- Currency
- Australian dollar
- Religion
- Christianity is the predominant religion
- National dish
- N/A
- Climate
- Christmas Island has a tropical climate with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year. The wet season is from November to April, while the dry season is from May to October
- Main industries
- Phosphate mining, tourism, and fishing
- GDP
- N/A, as it is a territory of Australia
- Development
- N/A, as it is a territory of Australia
Things to do in Christmas Island
Some of the main tourist attractions on Christmas Island include:
- Red crab migration every year, millions of red crabs migrate from the island's rainforests to the coast to breed.
- National Park the island is home to a national park that includes rainforest, beaches, and unique wildlife such as the Abbott's booby and the Christmas Island flying fox.
- Diving and Snorkeling the island is surrounded by coral reefs that offer excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.
- Culture and History the island has a unique cultural history, influenced by its Chinese, Malay, and European heritage. Visitors can learn about the island's history and culture at the Christmas Island Visitor Centre.
- Beaches the island has several beautiful beaches, including Flying Fish Cove, which is the main settlement on the island.
- Birdwatching the island is home to several endemic bird species, including the Christmas Island frigatebird and the Christmas Island goshawk.
Visitors to Christmas Island must obtain a permit from the Australian government and should be aware of potential hazards, such as the presence of crocodiles, venomous snakes, and the risk of dengue fever.
Christmas Island in pictures
Christmas Island on video
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Christmas Island compared with its neighbours
How it sits against the other countries of Southeast Asia.
| Country | Population | Area | Capital |
|---|---|---|---|
 Singapore | 6 million | 728 km² | Singapore |
 Timor-Leste | 1.4 million | 14,874 km² | Dili |
 Brunei | 460,000 | 5,765 km² | Bandar Seri Begawan |
| Christmas Island | 1,700 | 135 km² | Flying Fish Cove |
Questions about Christmas Island
What is the capital of Christmas Island?
The capital of Christmas Island is Flying Fish Cove.
How many people live in Christmas Island?
About 1,700 people.
How big is Christmas Island?
Christmas Island covers 135 km², in Southeast Asia.
What is Christmas Island known for?
Christmas Island is best known for Red crab migration, National Park and Diving and Snorkeling.
What language is spoken in Christmas Island?
English is the official language.
What currency is used in Christmas Island?
Australian dollar.
Is Christmas Island a country?
Christmas Island is a dependency or overseas territory rather than a sovereign state, so it appears only when territories are switched on in the generator.