Cocos (Keeling) Islands

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a remote Australian external territory comprising 27 coral islands scattered across the turquoise waters of the eastern Indian Ocean, offering a serene blend of tropical beauty and multicultural charm.

Located about 2,750 km northwest of Perth, the islands form two atoll groups—West Island and Home Island—encircling a shallow lagoon teeming with marine life. Low-lying and flat, the land is dominated by white sandy beaches, coconut palms, and a rich coral reef system that makes the area a haven for snorkelers and divers.

The islands' culture reflects a unique mix of Cocos Malay heritage, Australian influence, and Islamic traditions. Residents celebrate festivals such as Hari Raya and Christmas, and their cuisine blends Malay staples like nasi goreng and satay with fresh seafood, coconut, and tropical fruits.

First sighted by Dutch explorer Captain William Keeling in 1609, the islands were later annexed by the British in 1857. They became an Australian territory in 1955, and in 1993 a self‑government agreement granted the Cocos Malay community greater control over local affairs.

This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.