Weather in Christmas Island

About Christmas Island

Christmas Island erupts in November as millions of red crabs migrate from jungle to ocean in one of nature's most spectacular events. The Australian territory's pristine reefs and jungle trails offer adventure without crowds.

Country

Australia

Best months to visit

June, July, August, September, October, November

Currency

AUD

Language

English

Things to do in Christmas Island

Witness the red crab migration Dive pristine reefs Hike through rainforest Spot endemic species Snorkel from the shore Visit the phosphate ruins

Weather by month

Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.

January

26C

Warm and pleasant, with regular rainfall.

February

26C

Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.

March

26C

Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.

April

26C

Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.

May

26C

Warm and pleasant, with regular rainfall.

Recommended

June

26C

Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.

Recommended

July

25C

Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.

Recommended

August

24C

Mild and comfortable, with occasional showers.

Recommended

September

24C

Mild and comfortable, with occasional showers.

Recommended

October

25C

Warm and pleasant, with occasional showers.

Recommended

November

25C

Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.

December

26C

Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.

Christmas Island is best known for one of nature's great spectacles — the annual migration of tens of millions of red crabs across the island to the sea, turning roads and forest floors red for weeks. Beyond the crabs, this Australian territory in the Indian Ocean offers excellent diving with whale sharks, dense rainforest covering most of its interior, and a multicultural community shaped by its mining history.

Best areas to stay in Christmas Island

Flying Fish Cove

The island's main settlement, with the harbour, a small selection of accommodation and access to popular swimming spots.

Christmas Island National Park

Covering most of the island's interior, with rainforest walking trails, waterfalls and the best vantage points for the crab migration.

Dolly Beach

A remote, forest-fringed beach on the island's south coast, reached via a 4WD track and short walk.

The Blowholes

A coastal area where waves force water and spray dramatically through rock formations at high tide.

Getting to Christmas Island

✈

Flights

Fly into Christmas Island Airport, typically via Perth.

⏱

From London

~24-30 hours from London including connections.

🚕

Getting around

A hire car (often 4WD) is essential for reaching trailheads, beaches and crab-crossing points around the island.

Frequently asked questions

When does the red crab migration happen?

Usually around October to December, triggered by the start of the wet season, though exact timing varies year to year and is hard to predict precisely in advance.

What is the best time to visit Christmas Island?

The dry season (April to November) is more comfortable for hiking and diving, though the crab migration falls within the wetter months.

Can I see whale sharks?

Yes — whale sharks visit the waters around Christmas Island, typically between November and April, drawing divers and snorkellers.

Is Christmas Island expensive?

Limited flights and accommodation make it pricier than mainland Australia, though it remains far less developed than typical island resorts.

What language is spoken?

English is official, alongside Mandarin and Malay reflecting the island's multicultural population.

Traveler reviews

★★★★★

We happened to be there during the red crab migration and it was honestly overwhelming — millions of crabs everywhere, roads closed for them to cross safely.

Fiona L. · November 2023

★★★★★

Snorkelled alongside a whale shark just off Flying Fish Cove — completely unexpected and one of the best wildlife encounters of our lives.

Marcus T. · December 2023

★★★★☆

Dolly Beach was worth the rough drive — totally empty, framed by jungle, and we didn't see another person all day.

Helen R. · October 2024