Things To Do
in Cook Islands
The Cook Islands is a self-governing island country in the South Pacific Ocean in free association with New Zealand, comprising 15 islands spread over a vast expanse of ocean. The islands are renowned for their vivid turquoise lagoons, palm-fringed beaches, and rugged volcanic peaks, offering a rich Polynesian culture along with excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping.
Rarotonga, the most populous island, serves as the administrative and cultural hub, while Aitutaki, with its breathtaking lagoon, is a popular destination for visitors seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
- "Kia orana" - Hello
- "Meitaki" - Thank you
- "Aere ra" - Goodbye
- "E ia ra" - Yes
- "Kare" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $80 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh tropical fruits. Afterward, take a stroll on Muri Beach to soak in the stunning views.
Head to the Te Vara Nui Village for a cultural experience, where you'll learn about Polynesian traditions. Don't miss the chance to participate in craft-making workshops.
Indulge in an authentic island dinner at a beachside restaurant. Enjoy the sunset while sipping on a refreshing cocktail.
Catch a morning flight to Aitutaki, renowned for its breathtaking lagoon. Start your day with some snorkeling among the vibrant coral reefs.
Enjoy a lagoon tour, stopping at various motus (islets) and relaxing on the sandy shores. Lunch will be a delightful picnic on one of the motus.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner. Dine at a local restaurant and savor freshly caught fish alongside a beautiful view.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with pristine beaches and lush landscapes.
- Warm and inviting tropical climate year-round.
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly local population.
- Ideal destination for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking.
- Limited commercial development, offering a laid-back atmosphere.
- Relatively low tourist density compared to some other Pacific destinations.
- Remote location may result in higher travel costs and limited flight options.
- Limited availability of modern amenities and services.
- Potential for isolation from mainland facilities and healthcare.
- Some areas may experience infrastructure challenges.
- Rental and accommodation prices can be high during peak seasons.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with a risk of cyclones during certain seasons.
Best Activities in Cook Islands
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life in the clear waters of the Cook Islands. Popular spots include Aitutaki Lagoon and Muri Beach.
Visit the various islands in the Cook Islands, each offering unique landscapes, cultures, and experiences, such as Rarotonga and Aitutaki.
Trek through lush rainforests and enjoy stunning views from the peaks of Rarotonga, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Paddle through the turquoise lagoons and along the coastlines, taking in the breathtaking scenery and tranquil environment.
Enjoy a fun and relaxing way to explore the lagoons while soaking in the sun and the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Experience the rich fishing culture of the Cook Islands with deep-sea or fly fishing excursions, perfect for both beginners and seasoned anglers.
Engage with the local culture through guided tours that include traditional performances, crafts, and stories about the island's history.
Dive into the rich underwater world with organized dives showcasing shipwrecks, walls, and abundant marine life.
Join locals or fellow travelers in a game of beach volleyball at popular beaches like Muri Beach, providing fun and exercise.
Relax with a scenic boat cruise at sunset, offering stunning views of the horizon while enjoying refreshments.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cook Islands with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cook Islands
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning turquoise waters and small sandy islets, Aitutaki Lagoon offers breathtaking views and incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The Needle is a prominent rock formation located on Rarotonga that provides panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
This cultural village offers picturesque landscapes that integrate traditional architecture with lush tropical surroundings, perfect for capturing the essence of Cook Islands culture.
A small, beautiful island in Aitutaki, One Foot Island is often considered the ideal location for postcard-perfect photos, with its pristine beaches and clear blue waters.
Located on Rarotonga, this beach is known for its dramatic black volcanic rocks contrasted against white sand and vibrant waters, providing unique photo opportunities.
With its stunning lagoon and vibrant colors during sunset, Muri Beach is a popular spot for both relaxation and photography, capturing the beauty of the Cook Islands.
One of the most beautiful beaches in Rarotonga, Titikaveka Beach features soft sands and lush landscapes, offering excellent views for photography and relaxation.
Food in Cook Islands
Cook Islands Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This traditional dish consists of raw fish marinated in lime or lemon juice, coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and chili.
Must-Try!
Rukau is a taro (root vegetable) dish cooked with creamy coconut cream and often served with fish or meat.
Eke, or octopus, cooked in a rich and flavorful curry sauce, is a popular and unique local delicacy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Avarua, this vibrant market offers an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local food stalls selling authentic Cook Islands cuisine.
Held in Muri Beach, these night markets are a must-visit for a wide selection of affordable and delicious street food, from seafood to traditional dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in the Cook Islands, a warm handshake or a friendly 'Kia Orana' (may you live long) is customary. It is important to make eye contact and smile to convey respect and friendliness.
While the Cook Islands are generally laid-back regarding clothing, it is respectful to dress modestly when visiting local villages or attending community events. Swimwear should only be worn at the beach or poolside.
Always respect local customs and traditions, especially during cultural ceremonies or events. Asking for permission before taking photographs of people or sacred places is considered courteous.
Safety
Tipping in Cook Islands
Ensure a smooth experience
In the Cook Islands, tipping is not customary and is largely considered optional. However, it is appreciated by service providers such as waitstaff, tour guides, and taxi drivers. Visitors are encouraged to tip for exceptional service, generally in the range of 10-15%, but it is not expected.
Payments in the Cook Islands can be made using New Zealand dollars (NZD) or the Cook Islands dollar, which are interchangeable at par. Most businesses accept credit cards, especially in tourist areas, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments. ATMs are available in larger towns, and travelers should inform their banks of their travel plans to avoid card issues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is considered the best time to visit the Cook Islands, as the weather is typically sunny and warm with little rainfall. Temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). This is peak tourist season, so expect a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of activities, events, and excellent conditions for snorkeling, diving, and beach relaxation.
The wet season features higher humidity and increased rainfall, especially from January to March. Temperatures are warmer, averaging between 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F). While this season can experience tropical storms, there are still sunny days, and the islands are less crowded. This is a great time for budget travelers as accommodation prices may be lower.
The shoulder months of April and November are transitional periods with relatively pleasant weather. These months can see fewer tourists compared to peak season, providing a more relaxed atmosphere. Expect warm temperatures and occasional rainfall, making it a good time for both tourism and local events.
Cook Islands at Night
Hiking in Cook Islands
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike that offers breathtaking views of Rarotonga and its surrounding lagoons. The trail is moderately challenging and takes about 1-2 hours to complete.
This challenging hike takes you across the island of Rarotonga, providing a mix of lush rainforest and stunning mountain scenery. The trek can take 3-4 hours and leads to the summit with panoramic views.
A more leisurely hike along the shoreline of Aroa Beach. It's perfect for families and offers beautiful ocean views and opportunities for swimming.
A short yet beautiful trail leading to a hidden waterfall. Ideal for a quick adventure and a refreshing dip in natural pools.
A demanding hike for experienced hikers, ascending to one of the highest points on the island with rewarding views. The hike can take 4-5 hours round trip.
Airports
How to reach Cook Islands by plane.
The main airport in the Cook Islands, located on the island of Rarotonga. It serves as the primary gateway for international travelers.
Located in Nadi, Fiji, this international airport serves as a major hub for flights across the Pacific region.
The main international airport in Tahiti, French Polynesia, which is one of the closest major airports to the Cook Islands.
A major international airport located in Los Angeles, California, serving as a hub for numerous international flights, including those to the South Pacific.
New Zealand's largest and busiest airport, located in Auckland, serving as a major transit point for flights to and from the Pacific Islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of the Cook Islands, making up the majority of the population.
Primarily descendants of British and other European settlers.
Includes people from other Pacific nations who have settled in the Cook Islands.
Comprising a smaller segment of the population, mainly including people from countries like China.
Individuals of mixed heritage, often combining Cook Islands Maori with other ethnic backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in the Cook Islands, with a strong following and local competitions. The sport has both union and league variants.
Netball is widely played and enjoyed by both women and men in the Cook Islands, with local leagues and tournaments held regularly.
Soccer (football) has a growing popularity in the Cook Islands, with organized competitions and a national league.
Basketball is increasingly popular among the youth, with local courts available and regional competitions taking place.
Va'a is a traditional sport in the Cook Islands, involving paddling outrigger canoes and is a key part of local culture and heritage.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in the main tourist areas offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, often centered around fresh produce and tropical flavors.
While traditional dishes may contain gluten, many eateries in the tourist areas are accommodating to gluten-free diets and can tailor dishes or suggest suitable alternatives.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cook Islands.