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The Blowholes
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Visit The Blowholes on Christmas Island for powerful ocean spray, tropical rainforest, endemic wildlife and a rugged southern-coast landscape.

The Blowholes occupy a remote stretch of Christmas Island’s southern coast, where the Indian Ocean meets a rugged limestone shoreline beneath dense tropical rainforest. Here, waves surge into sea-level cavities and narrow channels in the coastal rock before forcing air and spray upwards with a deep, resonant burst. The display depends on swell, tide and wind: on calmer days the coast may appear deceptively quiet, while rougher seas produce more powerful eruptions. The Blowholes are a natural attraction rather than a built-up resort, and the sense of isolation is part of their appeal.
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The access road passes through Christmas Island’s characteristic forest, a habitat shaped by the island’s isolation and famous for its endemic plants and animals. Red crabs are particularly important to the island’s identity, although their seasonal migration routes and timing vary, and visitors should never assume that large numbers will be present at the Blowholes themselves. Birdlife may be encountered in the surrounding canopy, while the exposed coast supports hardy vegetation adapted to salt spray, limestone and tropical weather.
The attraction is best understood as part of a wider southern and western coastal landscape rather than as a standalone sightseeing stop. Nearby roads lead towards other parts of Christmas Island’s protected environment, but distances, road conditions and weather can make a short-looking itinerary take longer than expected. The island has no extensive public transport network, so most visitors reach the Blowholes by hire car or an organised excursion. Facilities at the site are limited compared with places around Flying Fish Cove and the Settlement, making preparation important.
Come for the geological drama, the rainforest drive and the contrast between enclosed forest and open ocean. Stay well back from the cliff edge and coastal channels: large waves can arrive without warning, and the rocks may be slippery even when the sea appears manageable. The Blowholes are most rewarding when treated as a wild coastal viewpoint, with time allowed to observe changing conditions rather than expecting a scheduled natural performance.

When is the best time to visit The Blowholes?

Best: May–July · 33–34°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January31150
February32140
March32130
April33120
May (best)33110
June (best)34100
July (best)3490
August35100
September34110
October34120
November33130
December33140

Getting to and around The Blowholes

How to get there

The Blowholes are on Christmas Island’s remote southern coast, reached by road from the settled northern part of the island. International visitors normally first reach Christmas Island by air through the island’s limited scheduled connections, which vary over time and may involve mainland Australian or regional transfer points; confirm current routes before booking. The site itself is not served by an airport, ferry terminal or town transport hub. A hire car is the usual independent option, while local tour providers may include The Blowholes in island excursions.

Transportation

A vehicle is the most practical way to reach The Blowholes and to combine it with other parts of Christmas Island. Roads beyond the main settlements can be narrow, uneven or affected by heavy rain, so drive defensively and follow local access signs and restrictions. Facilities are sparse at the coast, and walking routes should not be improvised close to unstable cliffs or wave channels. Cycling and walking are possible for experienced visitors but are demanding because of heat, humidity, distance and limited roadside services.

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Best attractions in The Blowholes

The principal attraction is the coastal blowhole system itself, where ocean swell enters limestone cavities and emerges as compressed air, spray and sound. Its force varies naturally, so the experience is one of observing a living coastline rather than waiting for a mechanical show. The route to the site is also part of the visit, passing through Christmas Island’s tropical forest and protected habitat. Wildlife sightings are possible, but they should never be guaranteed or encouraged with food. The wider southern and western parts of the island offer other natural experiences, including rainforest scenery, coastal viewpoints and established access to selected national-park sites; these are separate excursions and should be checked locally for current conditions. The attraction landscape around The Blowholes is therefore quiet and outdoor-focused, with little commercial development, no substantial visitor centre and limited shelter. Visitors interested in the island’s broader story can find historical and cultural interpretation around the settled areas, while The Blowholes provides the clearest encounter with the island’s exposed geological edge. Allow time for changing weather, photography and safe observation rather than rushing between viewpoints.

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Best landmarks in The Blowholes

The defining landmark is the raw southern coastline at The Blowholes, where elevated limestone terraces have been cut by wave action into channels, cavities and openings. Its importance is both geological and visual: the site demonstrates how the Indian Ocean continues to shape Christmas Island’s raised marine landscapes. The forested road approach provides a strong contrast with the bare, salt-exposed rock at the coast, while the open horizon emphasises the island’s isolation. The Blowholes should not be confused with a monumental structure or engineered viewpoint; their significance lies in the relationship between rock, sea, wind and weather. Nearby natural landmarks elsewhere on Christmas Island, including rainforest, cliffs and other coastal formations, belong to separate parts of the island and require their own access planning. At The Blowholes, the most important practical landmark is the designated viewing area or access point available on the day, since safe observation depends on keeping away from wave-washed channels and unstable edges.

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Best restaurants in The Blowholes

There are no restaurants, cafés or food stalls at The Blowholes, so visitors should eat before leaving the settled northern areas or carry suitable provisions and water. Dining on Christmas Island is concentrated around accommodation, the Settlement and Flying Fish Cove, with availability shaped by the island’s small population and supply chain. Visitors may encounter Australian and Southeast Asian influences in local cooking, reflecting Christmas Island’s multicultural history, as well as seafood and everyday café or takeaway fare when businesses are operating. It is sensible to confirm meal arrangements in advance, particularly outside normal daytime periods, rather than assuming a remote coastal stop can provide refreshments. Food should be packed securely and all rubbish removed, since feeding wildlife can alter animal behaviour and is inappropriate in a protected environment. The meal experience at The Blowholes is consequently a prepared picnic or takeaway enjoyed away from the cliff edge, not a developed coastal dining scene.

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Best bars in The Blowholes

The Blowholes has no bar or nightlife, and darkness, remoteness and exposed coastal conditions make it unsuitable for an evening entertainment stop. Christmas Island’s social life is centred on the Settlement, Flying Fish Cove and local accommodation, where visitors may find a small number of pubs, restaurants or informal community venues depending on current opening arrangements. The emphasis is generally on conversation, dining and local social life rather than a concentrated nightclub district. Many travellers visit The Blowholes in daylight and return before nightfall, when unfamiliar roads, wildlife crossings and limited lighting make driving more demanding. Check transport arrangements and business hours locally, as services can be limited and change with staffing, supplies or seasonal demand. Evening wildlife experiences should only be undertaken with a reputable local guide and in accordance with conservation rules.

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Best nightclubs in The Blowholes

The Blowholes has no bar or nightlife, and darkness, remoteness and exposed coastal conditions make it unsuitable for an evening entertainment stop. Christmas Island’s social life is centred on the Settlement, Flying Fish Cove and local accommodation, where visitors may find a small number of pubs, restaurants or informal community venues depending on current opening arrangements. The emphasis is generally on conversation, dining and local social life rather than a concentrated nightclub district. Many travellers visit The Blowholes in daylight and return before nightfall, when unfamiliar roads, wildlife crossings and limited lighting make driving more demanding. Check transport arrangements and business hours locally, as services can be limited and change with staffing, supplies or seasonal demand. Evening wildlife experiences should only be undertaken with a reputable local guide and in accordance with conservation rules.

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Best shops in The Blowholes

The Blowholes has no shops, market or craft outlet. Shopping connected with a visit must be done in the Settlement, Flying Fish Cove or other established service areas on Christmas Island, where supplies, souvenirs and locally relevant products may be available subject to limited opening arrangements. Visitors can look for island-themed gifts, books, locally produced food items and crafts, but should not assume that every product is made on Christmas Island or that specialist retail is extensive. Buying provisions before travelling to remote coastal sites is more useful than expecting a roadside kiosk. Souvenirs should be obtained through legitimate businesses rather than collecting coral, shells, rock, plants or other natural material from the coast. The best purchase associated with The Blowholes is often practical: water, snacks, sun protection and suitable footwear for a responsible visit to a wild, undeveloped part of the island.

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The Blowholes essentials

Currency and Payment
The currency is the Australian dollar (AUD), as Christmas Island is an Australian external territory. Cards and contactless payments may be accepted by established accommodation and businesses, but coverage and connectivity can be less dependable than in major Australian cities. Carry some Australian cash for small purchases and contingencies, especially when travelling away from the Settlement and Flying Fish Cove. There are no shops or reliable payment facilities at The Blowholes itself.
Safety
The principal risks at The Blowholes are environmental rather than urban: powerful waves, slippery limestone, unstable edges, heat, dehydration and rapidly changing weather. Never climb onto wave-washed rocks, lean over openings or approach the cliff edge for a photograph. Keep children close and use designated viewing areas where provided. Drive carefully on remote roads, carry sufficient water and avoid relying on a mobile signal. Christmas Island’s rainforest can also conceal uneven ground and wildlife, so stay on established access routes.
Emergency Situations
Dial 000 for police, fire or ambulance emergencies, using the Australian national emergency system. State your location as The Blowholes, Christmas Island, and provide clear details about the access road, injuries and surrounding landmarks. Because the site is remote, assistance may take time to reach you; do not put yourself at further risk while attempting a rescue. For non-urgent help, contact your accommodation or local visitor and tour services before setting out, and check whether your mobile provider offers coverage in the area.
Do's and Don'ts
Do follow signs, barriers and local instructions, take all rubbish away and observe wildlife without feeding or handling it. Do give way to red crabs when they are crossing roads and avoid driving over them. Do wear suitable footwear and respect the coast as a hazardous natural environment. Do not enter restricted areas, remove rock or plants, or leave food for animals. General Australian expectations also apply: queue courteously, ask before photographing people and follow any conservation rules in the national park.
Local Tips
Treat The Blowholes as one stop in a carefully paced island itinerary rather than a quick roadside attraction. Ask local accommodation providers or guides about current road access, rainfall and sea conditions before departing. Early or late daylight can make the forest drive more comfortable, but visibility and wave activity cannot be guaranteed at a particular time. Combine the outing with other confirmed-access sites elsewhere on Christmas Island only after checking distances, because remote roads and weather can make the island feel larger than its map suggests.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloG'day[G'day]
GoodbyeSee ya[See ya]
YesYeah[Yeah]
NoNah[Nah]
Please/You're welcomeNo worries[No worries]
Thank youThanks mate[Thanks mate]
Excuse me/SorrySorry mate[Sorry mate]
How are you?How's it going?[How's it going?]
Fine. And you?Good, you?[Good, you?]
Do you speak English?You speak English?[You speak English?]
I don't understandI don't get it[I don't get it]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?[Can I see the menu?]
I don't eat meatI'm a vegetarian[I'm a vegetarian]
Cheers!Cheers![Cheers!]
I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the bill?[Can I get the bill?]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Help![Help!]
Go away!Get lost![Get lost!]
Call the Police!Call the cops![Call the cops!]
Call a doctor!Get a doctor![Get a doctor!]
I'm lostI'm lost[I'm lost]
I'm illI'm not well[I'm not well]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...I want to buy...[I want to buy...]
I'm just lookingJust browsing, thanks[Just browsing, thanks]
How much is it?How much?[How much?]
That's too expensiveThat's pricey[That's pricey]
Can you lower the price?Can you drop the price?[Can you drop the price?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?What’s the time?[What’s the time?]
It's one o'clockIt's one[It's one]
Half past (10)Half past ten[Half past ten]
MorningMorning[Morning]
AfternoonArvo[Arvo]
EveningEvening[Evening]
YesterdayYesterday[Yesterday]
TodayToday[Today]
TomorrowTomorrow[Tomorrow]
1One[One]
2Two[Two]
3Three[Three]
4Four[Four]
5Five[Five]
6Six[Six]
7Seven[Seven]
8Eight[Eight]
9Nine[Nine]
10Ten[Ten]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Where's the...?[Where's the...?]
What's the address?What's the address?[What's the address?]
Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me on the map?[Can you show me on the map?]
When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?[When's the next bus?]
A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...[A ticket to...]

History of The Blowholes

An Oceanic Limestone Island

Christmas Island is the summit of a submerged volcanic seamount that accumulated limestone over geological time as coral and other marine material were deposited around it. The island’s raised terraces, cliffs, caves and coastal platforms help explain the formation of The Blowholes: waves exploit cracks and cavities in uplifted limestone before compressing air and water through narrow openings. This geological foundation also influences the island’s distinctive soils, rainforest and subterranean water systems.

Early Austronesian Voyages

Long before European annexation, Christmas Island lay within the wider Indian Ocean world travelled by seafarers from Southeast Asia. Archaeological evidence, including ceramics and other artefacts, indicates contact with the island before permanent European settlement. There is no evidence of a large permanent pre-European population, but these discoveries show that Christmas Island was not entirely unknown to earlier maritime communities. The island’s isolated position made such visits intermittent rather than the beginning of a settled coastal culture.

European Charting and Naming

The island was recorded by European navigators in the seventeenth century and named Christmas Island after its sighting on Christmas Day in 1643. For many years it remained remote from regular settlement and commercial activity. Its difficult coastline, lack of an easy harbour and dense interior limited access, leaving much of the island’s natural environment largely undisturbed. The southern cliffs and exposed coast around The Blowholes remained a maritime landscape rather than a developed destination.

British Annexation and Phosphate Discovery

Britain annexed Christmas Island in 1888, and phosphate was discovered soon afterwards. Mining transformed the island through the construction of roads, settlements and export infrastructure, while labour migration brought workers from China, Malaya and other parts of Asia. The mines were concentrated inland and around the northern settled areas, but the transport network eventually made remote natural sites such as The Blowholes more accessible to residents and visitors.

War and the Japanese Occupation

The island’s phosphate industry and strategic position made Christmas Island significant during the Second World War. Japanese forces occupied the island from 1942 until 1945, disrupting mining and civilian life. The period included hardship, food shortages and forced labour, and it remains an important part of Christmas Island’s modern history. Much of the island’s later identity reflects the interaction between its wartime experience, its multicultural population and its continuing natural isolation.

Australian Administration and Conservation

Christmas Island was transferred to Australian administration in 1958 and is now an external territory of Australia. Phosphate mining has continued in changing forms, but conservation has become increasingly important, with large areas protected within Christmas Island National Park. The Blowholes are therefore experienced within a landscape where access, recreation and environmental protection must coexist. Protecting rainforest, seabirds, crabs and coastal habitats is central to the island’s contemporary visitor economy.

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