Oceania > 🇨🇨 The Cocos Islands
The city by city Car or no Car advice for The Cocos Islands can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in The Cocos Islands; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in The Cocos Islands?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in The Cocos Islands?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in The Cocos Islands
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| West Island | CCK |
Should You Rent a Car in the Cocos Islands? 🚗🌴
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a remote Australian territory in the Indian Ocean, known for their turquoise lagoons, palm-fringed beaches, and laid-back island culture. There are two inhabited islands—West Island and Home Island—and both are small and easy to navigate. But with limited transport options, many travellers ask: should you rent a car in the Cocos Islands? Here’s everything you need to know.
🚶 When You Don’t Need a Car
Because of the islands’ small size and relaxed pace, it’s completely possible to get around on foot or by bicycle—especially on West Island, where most accommodations are located.
✅ Car-Free Friendly Situations
| Location | Why You May Not Need a Car | Best Transport Option |
|---|---|---|
| West Island | Small, flat, and walkable | Bicycle or walking |
| Home Island | Local community area | Foot or shuttle boat |
| Day trips to uninhabited islands | Boat transfers included | Tour operators |
➡ If your goal is to relax, walk to the beach, or join lagoon tours, you won’t need a car.
🚗 When Renting a Car or Buggy Is Helpful
While cars are limited, many visitors rent a small car, buggy, or scooter to explore West Island more easily, especially if they want to reach remote beaches, the airport, or picnic areas.
✅ Reasons to Rent a Vehicle
| Benefit | What You Can Access |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Quickly reach all beaches |
| Flexibility | Explore at your own pace |
| Comfort | Easier in hot weather |
| Scenic routes | Coastal views and photo stops |
🚙 Types of Vehicles Available
| Vehicle Type | Ideal For |
|---|---|
| Car | Families & groups |
| Golf buggy | Fun and flexible |
| Scooter/bicycle | Solo travellers |
🚤 Getting Between the Islands
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A ferry connects West Island and Home Island
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You cannot drive between islands—vehicles stay on their home island
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Day tours use boats to transport visitors to snorkelling or uninhabited islands
🚦 Driving on the Cocos Islands
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You drive on the left-hand side
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Speed limits are low (around 40 km/h)
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Roads are sealed but simple
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No traffic lights—just relaxed island driving
🚕 Alternatives
| Transport Option | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bicycle | Budget travel | Popular and scenic |
| Buggy hire | Short-term fun | Easy to rent locally |
| Walking | West Island stays | Beaches are close by |
| Boat tours | Island hopping | Transport included |
🏁 Final Recommendation
| Traveller Type | Car Needed? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Resort-only visitor | ❌ No | Everything is nearby |
| Lagoon explorer | ❌ No | Tours provide transport |
| Family or long-stay visitor | ✅ Yes | Rental offers flexibility |
| Active traveller | ✅ Optional | Bicycles and buggies work well |
| Photography enthusiast | ✅ Yes | Scenic drives are easier with a vehicle |
✨ Final Takeaway
So, should you rent a car in the Cocos Islands?
👉 Yes, if you want full freedom to explore West Island’s beaches, lookouts, and picnic spots comfortably.
👉 No, if you’re happy to walk, cycle, or join organised boat tours around the islands.