The best places to stay on Christmas Island

Carla Grossetti Carla Grossetti
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From a luxury eco lodge to a room at an inn known for its sunsets, here are 11 of the best places to stay on Christmas Island.

There is a lot to see and do on Christmas Island. But when you do find time to catch your breath and recover from your day’s adventures, you will need to find somewhere to enjoy some quiet time and creature comforts. Whether you want to live it up at Swell Lodge, one of the most unique places to stay in WA, or you want to hole up in a more humble Airbnb abode, or a boutique Balinese-style retreat will most likely depend on your budget. Much of the accommodation on Christmas Island centres around Settlement, Poon Saan and Kampong and each offers something different. Here are some of the best places to stay on Christmas Island.

Deserted beach, Beach walking tour, Christmas Island, Australia
There’s plenty to see on Christmas Island and finding accommodation in the heart of it all is easy.

Swell Lodge

The first thing that hits you as you walk into one of the two glass-fronted eco chalets that make up Swell Lodge is the immensity of the sea and sky.

Tucked away deep in Christmas Island National Park, Swell Lodge is perched on the edge of one of the island’s jagged sea cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean. And when there is a swell running, it’s right in position, with the ocean stirring up a thundering crescendo in surround sound.

Swell Lodge Christmas Island
Enjoy pristine views from your luxury abode at Swell Lodge.

Eco-conscious travellers will love the fact the lodge is solar powered and runs a carbon-neutral program that includes offsetting emissions from its crab-safe lodge vehicle. A stay at Swell Lodge is all about secluded luxury, and includes your own private chef.

Best for: Solo travellers or couples.

Aerial shot of Swell Lodge, Christmas Island, Australia
Swell Lodge is perched on the edge of one of the island’s jagged sea cliffs.

Christmas Island Bali Style Retreat

Although Christmas Island is an Australian territory, it’s nearest neighbour is Indonesia, which means a breezy Balinese-style retreat feels right at home here.

The Christmas Island Bali Style Retreat enjoys elevated ocean views from its position on Phosphate Hill near the small township of Poon Saan. Sit on the expansive deck to soak up some sun and enjoy a drink while drinking in the soothing palette of blue sky and turquoise seas.

The retreat, which accommodates up to six people, is within five to 10 minutes of the town in Settlement and Flying Fish Cove and many of Christmas Island’s best restaurants and bars.

Best for: Families or groups.

Christmas Island Bali Style Retreat, Christmas Island, Australia
A breezy Balinese-style retreat feels right at home here.

The Cocos Padang Lodge

This refurbished heritage accommodation is a welcome addition on Christmas Island. The original building, which was typical of post-Second World War accommodation, was provided to its Cocos Malay workers by the Christmas Island Phosphate Mine until the 1960s.

All up, there are four self-contained apartments within walking distance to the local supermarket and the iconic Golden Bosun Tavern, one of the best places to eat on Christmas Island. Guests of the Cocos Padang Lodge are able to use the BBQ facilities at The Sunset.

Best for: Families or couples.

Cocos Padang Christmas Island accommodation
The Cocos Padang Lodge is a welcome addition to the Christmas Island accommodation offering.

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Captain’s Last Resort

One of the biggest highlights of staying at the Captain’s Last Resort on Christmas Island is the frigatebirds-eye’s view over the water. Keep your binoculars handy, as there is a lot of activity, from spinner dolphins lining up in pods to perform synchronised routines to a diverse array of birdlife pootling past the window.

After spending the day enjoying some of the best wilderness walks on Christmas Island, wander down to the main tourism precinct to meet some of the eccentric and warm-hearted locals.

The one-bedroom cottage is best-suited to singles and couples who enjoy exploring off the beaten track.

Best for: Solo travellers and couples.

Exterior, Captain's Last Resort, Christmas Island Accommodation, Australia
The one-bedroom cottage is best suited to those who enjoy exploring off the beaten track.

Diver’s Villa

The reefs off Christmas Island are considered to be one of nature’s great masterpieces amid the scuba diving community, and this villa, built in the 1930s, is designed to accommodate groups who want to share an underwater adventure.

The Diver’s Villa is one of the last pre-war bungalows built by the Christmas Island Phosphate Company that is still standing and the refurbished space, known on the island as Married Quarters 8 has been decorated in a contemporary colonial style.

We love that you can source seasonal ingredients from the garden such as papaya, coconuts, lemongrass, mint, lime and bananas. All up, there are four bedrooms and there is another one-bedroom waterfront villa, Sea Spray, which can also be rented out.

Best for: A group getaway.

Diver's Villa, Christmas Island, Australia
Diver’s Villa is one of the last pre-war bungalows.

CI Apartments

When WA residents pressed pause on their international travel plans, they started rediscovering the wonders of WA, with Christmas Island perfectly positioned to cater to adventurous travellers. Enter CI Apartments, which offers contemporary-style accommodation and a range of one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartments.

Comfy digs with a view are one thing, but there’s no substitute for location: after a busy day exploring Christmas Island, you will be grateful for the mini supermarket and Chinese restaurant across the road.

CI Apartments are also within a Malteser’s lob of the outdoor cinema, one of the best things to do on Christmas Island.

Best for: There are apartments to suit solo travellers, couples and families.

Exterior of CI Apartments, Christmas Island, Australia
CI Apartments offer contemporary-style accommodation.

Coconut Cottage

One of the latest additions to Christmas Island’s accommodation offering, Coconut Cottage is light and bright and, true to its name, shaded by coconut trees.

A secluded retreat in the main Settlement area of the island, it comes complete with views of the Indian Ocean and is set against a backdrop of wild national park.

Best for: Families or couples.

Coconut Cottage is an accommodation offering on Christmas Island
Check into Coconut Cottage, shaded by palms.

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The Sunset

If watching the sun sink over the ocean is your idea of luxury, then The Sunset will do nicely. Located along the waterfront in the beating heart of the Settlement township, Sunset offers unobstructed views of the ocean and its name is fitting when you’re afforded a front-row view of the sun dipping over the Indian Ocean from your balcony.

The pool at Sunset on Christmas Island
Take a dip in the pool to soak up the ocean views during your stay at Sunset.

The Sunset also has a pool, which isn’t exactly necessary with the big blue on your doorstep, but is greatly appreciated when you want a quick cool-off after exploring the wilderness.

Best for: Couples and solo travellers.

Sunset at Christmas Island, Australia
If watching the sun sink over the ocean is your idea of luxury, then The Sunset will do nicely.

The Retreat, Roundabout Retreat & Breeze Inn

This three-bedroom, centrally located unit is spacious and comfortable with a verandah overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Bid a hasty retreat to The Retreat when the sun is poised high in the sky to watch birds cruising by on the flight path. The Retreat is air-conditioned and has complimentary wi-fi and includes two queen beds and one room with twin singles.

While the best places to eat around Christmas Island are scattered nearby, there is a self-contained kitchen so you can whip up a feast and dine in.

Kitchen in Roundabout Retreat Christmas Island
Cook up a feast during your stay at Roundabout Retreat.

Other options include the newly renovated Roundabout Retreat (which sleeps a maximum of four) and Breeze Inn.

Best for: Families or couples.

Living room, Roundabout Retreat, Christmas Island Accommodation, Australia
Have a relaxing stay at Roundabout Retreat.
Read our guide to Christmas Island for more great travel tips and visit the Christmas Island website to start planning your trip now.

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Carla Grossetti
Carla Grossetti has written across print and digital for Australian Traveller and International Traveller for more than a decade and has spent more than two decades finding excuses to eat well and travel far. A prestigious News Corp cadetship launched her career at The Cairns Post, before a stint at The Canberra Times and The Sydney Morning Herald gave way to extended wanders through Canada, the US, Mexico, Central America, Asia and Europe. Carla was chief sub editor at delicious and has contributed to Good Food, Travel & Luxury, Explore Travel, Escape. While living in London, Carla was on staff at Condé Nast Traveller and The Sunday Times Travel desk and was part of the pioneering digital team at The Guardian UK.
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One of Australia’s most remote luxury lodges has just reopened
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One of Australia’s most remote luxury lodges has just reopened

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This Tasmania cruise offers the perfect long weekend escape

    Katie Dundas Katie Dundas
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    Discover the delights of Tasmania with Norwegian Cruise Line on a long weekend escape.

    The ultimate weekend away is right in your own backyard. This summer, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) launches a new, four-day Tassie Taster cruise onboard Norwegian Spirit®, introducing curious travellers to the delights of Tasmania.

    The rugged landscapes, rich history and delicious fresh produce make Tasmania a world-class destination in its own right, but the stunning coastlines of the island are even more beautiful when viewed from your private balcony. Departing from Sydney, this unique long weekend at sea is the perfect opportunity to completely unwind, sample the diverse dining options onboard, or take in live entertainment.

    For adults seeking a premium cruise experience, here’s why a few days onboard Norwegian Spirit might just be the weekend escape you’re looking for.

    Cruising on Norwegian Spirit

    Norwegian Spirit sailing near Phillip Island
    Sail to Tasmania’s beautiful shores on Norwegian Spirit..

    Norwegian Spirit is designed for refined cruising. After undergoing an extensive revitalisation from bow to stern, it represents the best of NCL’s fleet by blending contemporary elegance and serene comfort.

    Featuring upgraded staterooms, stylish lounges and elevated specialty dining, Norwegian Spirit is a calm oasis for couples, solo travellers and mature explorers seeking a premium cruise experience on a smaller ship, without sacrificing amenities or entertainment.

    Whether you’re seeking an introduction to cruising or are an experienced cruiser, NCL offers the flexibility and freedom to do as much (or as little) as you like, helping you curate your perfect holiday.

    Norwegian Spirit returns to the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour in December 2026 for its biggest Australian season to date. Australian travellers can enjoy ten Sydney departures, including two Tassie sailings, departing on the sixth and 21st of January 2027. With five round-trip summer sailings, there are plenty of opportunities to explore Australia and the South Pacific in premium comfort.

    Here’s what your long weekend sailing to Tasmania might look like.

    DAY 1: Depart Sydney in style

    Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Spirit tasmania leaving from sydney
    Depart from Sydney for the ultimate long weekend.

    As you embark on Norwegian Spirit, get excited for the ultimate weekend away. A Champagne toast to kickstart your voyage at Magnum’s Champagne & Wine Bar is always a good idea, but you may be surprised to learn that there is unrivalled variety for a ship of this size, featuring 14 dining options and nine bars, including the adults-only Spice H2O.

    Be sure to head out on deck to take in the magnificent views as you sail out of Sydney, then the rest of the night is yours to enjoy. After dinner at Cagney’s Steakhouse, a swanky specialty dining option featuring mood lighting, Premium Black Angus beef and seafood dishes, you can catch a show and enjoy some laughs at the Social Comedy & Night Club, enjoy the fresh night air from one of the decks, or head to your spacious stateroom early for a good night’s sleep.

    DAY 2: Relaxation at sea

    Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Spirit tasmania Spice H2O
    Chill out in a hot tub at Spice H2O.

    As you wake up refreshed on your first full sea day, you have ample opportunities to soak up the best of the ship. After a delicious buffet breakfast at the Garden Cafe, today is the ideal time to experience the award-winning Mandara Spa & Salon – whether you want to book a massage, disconnect in the thermal suite, or simply relax in the warm saunas. Or, bring a book and bask in the sun at the adults-only Spice H2O, featuring day beds, hot tubs and cocktails.

    Later, after a casual pub lunch at The Local, join in on one of the day’s many unique activities, such as arts and crafts classes, dance lessons, or browse the onboard library or shops.

    For an unforgettable dinner, book into Teppanyaki – an unforgettable Hibachi-style meal where you sit at the grill and watch the chef in action. Here, the cuisine is just as fun as watching the cooking itself, an unforgettable Hibachi-style meal where you sit at the grill and watch the chef in action.

    DAY 3: Discover Hobart, your way

    Mt Wellington visitor centre Hobart
    See Hobart from above at Mt Wellington. (Credit: Getty/ Zetter)

    Wake up to Tasmania’s historic capital, Hobart, with a full day in port to enjoy the city at your own pace. Take a relaxed stroll through the cobblestone square of Salamanca Place in Sullivan’s Cove, a delight to the senses with art galleries, eccentric boutique shops, live music and plenty of incredible restaurants where you can sample the fresh produce and cuisine that Tasmania is known for.

    Or, travel to the Tasman Peninsula to discover some of the island’s rugged cliffs, World Heritage-listed convict sites and wildlife, including the famed Tasmanian devil. 

    Your day can be as active or relaxed as you like, but you’ll want to return to your ship by 4pm. Tonight is ideal for dinner at the Windows Main Dining Room, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Hobart as you sail away.

    DAY 4: Indulge and Unwind

    Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Spirit tasmania Onda restaurant
    Treat yourself to an unforgettable meal onboard.

    Your long weekend may be drawing to a close, but there is still another full day at sea to enjoy. Start with a hearty breakfast at The Local before a morning soak in the central Tivoli pool or one of the four outdoor hot tubs. Then make the most of your stateroom with a relaxing room service lunch.

    Later, sit back and enjoy a performance at the Stardust Theatre, or check out the afternoon’s entertainment schedule to see what’s planned.

    Freshen up for your dinner booking at Le Bistro, NCL’s contemporary take on classic French cuisine, featuring an extensive wine list and exceptional white linen service.

    After dining, hit the dance floor at Bliss Ultra Lounge or Spinnaker Lounge. Or enjoy a quiet nightcap before heading back to your stateroom. No matter what the perfect long weekend looks like to you, you can find it on Norwegian Spirit.

    To book a long weekend like no other, contact your travel agent, call 1300 255 200, or visit ncl.com. With only two exclusive departure dates, it’s best to book early to secure your preferred stateroom type and departure date.