Cocos Islands Overview

Cocos Islands is an island near the eastern part of the great Indian Ocean. The island is also known as Keeling Island and offers some of the most breathtaking views. Numerous wildlife is found on Cocos Islands. Today, we will give you a detailed review of Cocos Islands.

Location to know about
Cocos Islands is located about 2290 miles west of the Australian city Darwin. It is near another one of the famous islands, Christmas Island. More precisely, it is about 2750 – 3000km northwest of Perth and about 900km of Christmas Island. It is located near the Southwestern part of Christmas Island. You can reach Christmas Island in only an hour from Cocos Islands.

What about the Topography?
Cocos Islands is not a single island. Instead, it is a group of small islands, which comprises 27 islets. 26 islets are in the southern region of the island. While, only one island, which is the North Keeling Island, lies in the northern region, or part of the island. This northern region also consists of a bay, and approximately 15km – 20km to the bay is precisely where the North Keeling Island lies.

Moreover, North Keeling Island is eloped by small islets of the South Keeling Islands. The terrain of Cocos Islands is flat and not too rocky or steep. There is only a slight elevation of about 6m, which is the island's highest point. The island is as beautiful as it gets and is covered with tall palm and coconut trees. And other lush green flora. Grass on islands is rough. The wildlife here is mainly seabirds and crabs.

History
The island was first discovered in 1609 by William Keeling, hence, the name Keeling Islands. The island contained no population until the late 19th century. The East India Company administered the island from 1857 – 1955. And in 1955, it was handed over to the Australian government. Now, the island is an external territory of Australia and is governed separately.

Climate
The climate here is generally hot and humid with seasonal trade winds. The average temperature here is 25 °C – 30 °C. The persistent winds blow from April to September, due to which Cocos Islands get quite windy. Rainfall occurs between March and July, and the average rainfall is about 78 inches. In addition to this, tropical cyclones and earthquakes are also one of the primary aspects of the islands.

At night the temperature of Cocos Islands can become as low as 20 °C. Overall, the temperature of Cocos Islands is stable and is not too harsh.

Population
There are two major groups on the island, traditional Europeans and traditional Malays. But the majority of the Home Island is occupied by the Malays. Most Malays are farmworkers and live in harmony. Other than that, the majority of the West Island is occupied by the Europeans. People here are involved in other small and part-time businesses.

Economy
As coconut is a main crop of the island, it is a primary source of earning for the residents of the Islands. The export of coconut and coconut-based products is what keeps the economy of the land alive and running. In addition to this, fishing and gardening help with the food supply, but other food resources are imported from Australia. Some of the important things to do are given below.

• Snorkeling
• Diving
• Fishing
• Kitesurfing
• Bird watching
• Swimming

Conclusion
The above-specified is a short yet detailed overview of Cocos Islands. If you are looking for a perfect spot to enjoy your holidays with your family, make sure to visit Cocos Islands. The numerous watersport activities would enhance your vacation experience. And would refreshen your mind.

References

• Geonames
• Wikipedia

Other Databases

• World Continents, Countries, States, and Cities
• Christmas Island
• Australia Zip Codes