Top 10 Things To Do In The Cook Islands
Drifting out there in the infinite South Pacific Ocean, The Cook Islands are the kind of holiday destination you’ve always dreamed about… that is if you love tropical islands. Named after the great Captain Cook, the man who discovered countless exotic islands in this remote part of the world, the Cook Islands are an ideal holiday playground. I spent nearly a month in these islands while backpacking across the South Pacific Islands. Here’s my list of the top things to do in the Cook Islands.
I spent a month in the Cook Islands, splitting my time between the islands of Rarotonga and Aitutaki. My trip to the Cook Islands was part of an extensive voyage across the South Pacific islands. This list of the top things to see and do in the Cook Islands is based on my experience and extensive research.
10. Explore The Caves Of Atiu
Atiu is slightly more challenging to get to, further adding to this island’s authentic feel. Apart from the laid-back island vibe, it is pristine nature that draws visitors to Atiu. One of the best islands in the South Pacific for birdwatching, it is Atiu’s limestone caves that are by far the island’s top celebrities.
9. Immerse Yourself In Island Life
As a local MC in Rarotonga once said, “The show will begin 5-10 Cook Island minutes from now”. You simply need to visit the islands to understand just how little meaning the concept of time has. Start your morning with a walk on the beach, chit-chat with the ladies at the local market, and practice your math by counting the millions of stars at night. So delete the word ‘stress’ from the dictionary and enjoy life in the extra slow lane for just a few precious days.
8. Enjoy The Culinary Scene
Considering the fact you’re on a remote island in the middle of the South Pacific, the food scene in Rarotonga is super impressive. You’ll find it challenging to determine who makes it onto your culinary calendar… such a tough life, isn’t it? Don’t miss out on the lunch sandwiches at the Mooring Fish Cafe and the romantic beachside dinners at the Tamarind House – to name just a few.
7. Do A Bit Of Saturday Shopping
From black pearls to ukuleles, the Cook Islands is a great place to spend some cash. If you just happen to spend a Saturday in Rarotonga, head to the Punanga Nui Market in the morning hours (but not too early; you’re on vacation, after all). While you’re waiting for the live entertainment to begin, grab some food and a fresh tropical smoothie as you have a look at what’s on sale today. It’s one of the best markets in the South Pacific and usually wraps up around noon.
6. Attend Sunday Church Service
You don’t have to be a believer or an active worshiper to enjoy Sunday church service in the Cook Islands. If you don’t know your way around town, just follow locals wearing their Sunday finest white suits, dresses, and flower-adorned hats. Plenty of beautiful singing, a capella style, tons of smiles, and a strong sense of community make you wonder if everything in paradise is as perfect as it looks. Both the Arutanga CICC in Aitutaki and the Avarua CICC in Rarotonga are places to be on a Sunday morning. Here are some sights and sounds from Sunday church service in the Cook Islands.
5. Hike In Search Of Panoramic Views
Whether climbing the highest point in Aitutaki or crossing Rarotonga from north to south on the Cross Island Track, hiking in the Cook Islands gives you the chance to get away from it all (and get a bit of exercise done). While some trails are clearly marked, finding the trailhead on others is ‘part of the fun’.
4. Scuba Dive in pristine Waters
Scuba diving in the Cook Islands is among the very best in the South Pacific. Excellent dive sites can be explored around Aitutaki and Rarotonga. Expect close encounters with reef sharks, sea turtles, and scary-looking moray eels. The visibility is fantastic, and the coral garden is in full bloom.
3. Do Nothing On The Beach
Ever wondered if that perfect-looking beach you saw in travel magazines really existed? The answer to that is you’ll have to find out for yourself! Just kidding. Yes, magnificent tropical beaches await visitors to the Cook Islands. And the even better news is that there are plenty of them, so you can easily find your own spot for the day. Whether out on the lagoon motus (islets) or just in front of your beachfront villa – you’re never too far from that paradise you’ve always envisioned.
2. Experience The Magic Of Island Night
It’s a well-known fact that all Cook Islanders can sing, dance, and play with fire. All three skills are combined with a delicious buffet dinner on the legendary island nights. Proudly showcasing their exotic Cook Island Maori culture, do not miss the opportunity to attend an island night show. In Aitutaki, the Tamanu Beach Resort throws the best show on the island, while in Rarotonga, the Te Vara Nui Village puts on a show that would definitely play to a sold-out crowd in Las Vegas.
1. Spend The Day In The Aitutaki Lagoon
One of those magical days that will vividly live in your mind forever, climb aboard the modern catamaran of The Vaka Cruise, and set sail to the dreamy uninhabited islets (motu) that dot the Aitutaki Lagoon. I’ve visited over 30 islands in the South Pacific and explored quite a few lagoons, but nothing gets close to those stereotypical flashes of paradise you’ll see today. The water is so intensely blue, the white sand blinds you as if you’re staring at the sun and the palm trees… well, they curve at just the perfect angle!
Ready To Visit?
There you have it! The top things to do in The Cook Islands. Of course, there’s plenty more to see and do in the Cook Islands, and to help you prepare for this dream holiday – start your planning with The Cook Islands Travel Guide. It’s got loads of useful planning information and in-depth guides to Rarotonga and Aitutaki.
