Trannies Beach at the northern end of West Island is Cocos' most sheltered and beginner-friendly snorkelling spot. The calm, lagoon-side waters are protected from ocean swell, making it ideal for families and first-time snorkellers. Step straight off the sandy shore into crystalline shallows where vibrant coral gardens begin just metres out. The healthy, protected reef system of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Marine Park means you'll encounter an abundance of tropical fish, sea turtles, and the occasional blacktip reef shark — all within the gentle, waist-deep waters of this pristine atoll setting.
West Island beach snorkelling (north end)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 6.8 sWind Speed 2.0 knPrecipitation 6.5 mmTidal Phase ebb
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Low tide reef exposure
The reef flat can be exposed at very low tides, requiring careful timing to avoid bumping into coral.
Low risk: Stinging hydroids / fire coral
Stinging hydroids and fire coral are present on the reef; contact can cause skin irritation.
Low risk: Tidal current (channel area)
Moderate tidal currents can develop near the channel entrance, particularly during outgoing tides.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Trannies Beach is located at the northern end of West Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands. From the West Island settlement, head north along the island's main road until you reach the northern tip where the beach opens up. It's a short bike ride or drive from the airport/settlement area.
Parking & facilities
Limited roadside parking available near the northern end of the island; walk a short distance to the beach entrance.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports