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The Cook Islands are an archipelago in the South Pacific made up of 13 inhabited (and two uninhabited) remote islands. They cover an area of 2.2 million square miles and encompass azure-blue seas, lagoons, inlets and reefs.
The islands are split into two distinct groups; the sparsely populated northern islands and the more accessible southern islands.
The islands take their name from Captain James Cook who sailed to the area in 1773, though Spanish explorers had visited some of the northern islands two hundred years before him.
Prior to the 19th Century the islands were populated solely by the indiginous Polynesian Maori. European missionaries and settlers started to arrive from 1821 and by 1888 the islands had become a British protectorate. The islands were then ruled by New Zealand, and finally granted self-rule in 1965.
Today, they are a relatively hidden gem in the realm of international travel. Although a popular place to visit from New Zealand or Australia, you won’t find many other tourists from other nationalities on your trip to the islands.
The Best Islands to Stay On
There are so many things to do in the Cook Islands, from snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming and sunbathing to sea safaris, jungle hikes, waterfalls and fresh seafood markets.
Rarotonga and Aitutaki are the two most populous islands and make great bases for exploring thanks to a better infrastructure than some of the smaller islets in the region.
However, it’s definitely worthwhile spending some time island-hopping to find your own slice of tropical paradise away from the tourists.
The easiest way to get to the Cook Islands is to fly from New Zealand to Rarotonga. The flight is between three and four hours and there are direct flights with Air New Zealand and Air Rarotonga.
Now that you’re over the logistics and ready to see what a fun trip you can have, here are the best things to do in the Cook Islands.
1. Go Snorkeling in Pristine Waters
Locations: All Islands
Given the location of the Cook islands in the middle of the crystal-clear waters of the South Pacific, it is the perfect destination for snorkeling.
The visibility in these tranquil, turquoise waters is an astounding 60 meters, meaning you won’t have a problem seeing a wide variety of marine life. From tropical fish, eels, rays, and turtles to reef sharks, coral, and crustaceans, snorkeling is the ultimate way to discover the magic of these islands.
Rarotonga and Aitutaki are perfect for snorkeling and in the larger resort areas you’ll be able to buy or hire the necessary equipment.
Aroa Beach on Rarotonga is considered one of the best snorkeling spots in the entire archipelago, so be sure to add it to your itinerary.
2. Try Out Scuba Diving
Locations: All Islands
If you are looking for something a little more adventurous under the water then scuba diving is just the thing. Rarotonga and Aitutaki both have PADI-registered diving operators that will take you beneath the waves to explore the coral reefs and lagoons that are teaming with life.
You’ll be able to explore shipwrecks, reefs, channels, drop-offs, and a whole new world under the sea.
In addition to the brightly colored parrotfish, urchins, sea cucumbers, and turtles, you’ll get to see reef sharks and if you are there between July and October you may even be lucky enough to spot a humpback whale!
Both snorkeling and scuba diving are two of the best things to do in the Cook Islands for nature lovers thanks to the abundance of marine life on display.
3. Take a Lagoon Cruise
Locations: All Islands
For those who prefer to stay dry, but still want to experience the magic of the South Pacific, then be sure to try out one of the lagoon cruises.
Take a glass-bottomed boat out across the reefs and lagoons and you’ll be treated to the wonders of the deep from the comfort of a dry seat (with the added bonus of a drinks service).
There are a range of cruises available departing from Rarotonga and Aitutaki, and you can opt for a day trip or a longer cruise with overnight stays on one of the other islands. There is also the option of snorkeling and swimming, so those that want to get wet have the option to do so.
4. Visit Charming One Foot Island (Tapuaetai)
Locations: Tapuaetai
If you’re looking for a real “Robinson Crusoe” island, then Tapuaetai, or One Foot Island as it is commonly known, is definitely the place for you.
This beautiful island is located around 15km south of Aitutaki airport and is the last islet in an atoll stretching around the Aitutaki lagoon.
With perfect white sand beaches, coconut palms and turquoise waters, One Foot Island is the ultimate place to live that castaway dream. The island is less than half a mile in length, but is surrounded entirely by beaches.
There is also a pub, and even a post office where you can get your passport stamped (but be careful as such stamps, as cute as they are, can invalidate your passport).
5. Hike The Needle (Te Rua Manga)
Location: Rarotonga
Although it’s impossible to tire of the beaches around the Cook Islands, sometimes it’s nice to shake things up a little and explore inland.
One of the most popular hikes is to Te Rua Manga, also known as “the Needle”. This large rocky outcrop rises from the jungle in the center of Rarotonga and is popular with climbers (though it’s just as impressive to admire from below).
This half-day trek takes in some incredible jungle scenery. As you climb higher above the island, the views out across the beaches and pristine waters become ever more impressive.
Although the trail is only 3.7 miles (6km), it is considered moderate to difficult so those attempting the hike will need to be physically fit.
The hike also takes in Wigmore’s Waterfall (see below), which is a great place to cool off after your trek.
6. Go Kayaking on Aitutaki Lagoon
Location: Aitutaki
With its white sand beaches, palm trees swaying in the light breeze, and crystal clear waters as far as the eye can see, it’s easy to see why Aitutaki Lagoon is considered the most beautiful lagoon in the world!
One of the best ways to explore this piece of heaven on earth is to hire a kayak or paddle board. Gently paddle across this expanse of azure-blue water as tropical fish dart beneath you.
Explore the inlets and coral reefs around the island or find your own private beach on this tropical island to relax on.
Kayaking Aitutaki is definitely one of the most unforgettable things to do in the Cook Islands!
7. Explore Punanga Nui Market
Location: Rarotonga
No trip to the Cook Islands is complete without exploring one of the vibrant markets across the archipelago. Here you can find the freshest seafood from fish to lobster, tropical fruits and vegetables to locally made handicrafts and souvenirs.
Rarotonga’s Punanga Nui Market is the best example of a traditional market and is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. However, Saturday morning is Rarotonga’s official market day and you will find many more stalls open between 7:00 am and 12:00 pm on Saturdays.
Exploring the market is one of the best things to do in the Cook Islands to really get a feel for the culture and island life. Not to be missed!
8. Visit the Te Ara Museum of Cultural Enterprise
Location: Rarotonga
If you want to get a real understanding of this island nation then the Te Ara Museum of Cultural Enterprise is a must-visit. Explore the history and culture of the islands through a unique series of exhibitions and displays.
Learn about the culture and customs of the native Cook Island Maori; the Polynesian inhabitants of these islands. From native art dating back centuries to the modern day, this excellent museum aims to help the native peoples of the South Pacific by highlighting their culture in a sustainable way.
With an onsite shop selling locally made arts and handicrafts, this is a great way to leave a positive impact on the islands. There is also a cafe selling locally sourced food and drink.
The museum is located on the southeast coast of Rarotonga, not far from Muri Beach. It is open Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and on weekends from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
9. Take a Trip to the Aroa Marine Reserve
Location: Rarotonga
If you want to see some of the most colorful fish in the Cook Islands then head to Aroa Marine Reserve to the south of Rarotonga.
This gentle stretch of the lagoon is protected from the surf and is the perfect place for beginners to have a go at snorkeling.
Some of the brightly colored fish here include butterflyfish, parrotfish, wrasse, and Moorish idols. Blue starfish, urchins, and giant clams also call this area home so there is plenty to see beneath the water.
10. Go Whale Watching
Location: Rarotonga and Aitutaki
Every year humpback whales make a stop in the Cook Islands on their way from the feeding grounds in Australia and New Zealand. The best time to witness this incredible spectacle of nature is between July and October.
The best place to see these magnificent creatures is from the western side of Rarotonga, with Black Rock Beach being a prime viewing place. For those not content with just watching the whales, it’s even possible to swim with these giants of the deep.
Whale watching is definitely one of the best things to do in the Cook Islands and should be on everyone’s bucket list!
11. Relax in the Beautiful Maire Nui Gardens
Location: Rarotonga
Set within seven acres of lush, tropical foliage, Maire Nui Gardens is the perfect place to cool off and relax.
From native flora to an Asian-inspired lily pond and fantastic mountain views, these gardens on the south coast of Rarotonga make a nice change if you fancy some time away from the beach.
There is an onsite cafe and grill serving island specialties using locally sourced ingredients. The cafe sits just across from Titikaveka beach.
The gardens are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and the cafe is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
12. Enjoy a Swim at Black Rock Beach
Location: Rarotonga
Black Rock Beach on Rarotonga was given its name thanks to a large rocky outcrop jutting into the sea. The black rock resembles the famous Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, only on a much smaller scale.
Although the rock is not a tourist attraction in and of itself, the palm-lined beach is great for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Being on the west side of the island, Black Rock is also a great place to spot humpback whales between July and October each year.
There are plenty of shops and restaurants nearby as well as a few short hiking trails to different viewpoints.
13. Visit Wigmore’s Waterfall
Location: Rarotonga
Wigmore’s Waterfall (also known as Papua Waterfall in Maori), can be found on the cross-island trail that leads to the Needle on Rarotonga.
It’s not going to win any awards for height or drop during the dry season, but during the rainy season (November to March) you will find a nice, refreshing pool at the bottom which is a great place to cool off.
The fresh water at Wigmore’s Falls can attract a lot of mosquitos, so be sure to put on plenty of repellant (this is a good idea for any jungle trek though).
14. Check Out Te Vara Nui Village
Location: Rarotonga
Te Vara Nui cultural village on Raratonga’s Muri Beach is one of the must-see attractions of the Cook Islands.
Learn all about the history of Rarotonga’s native people from traditional medicines to navigational methods, myths, and folklore.
You’ll get to see how traditional clothes are made, learn about ancient fishing methods, and discover the healing properties of the island’s plants and herbs.
After dark you can witness an impressive performance about the legend of Tongaita, a warrior and explorer from faraway lands who came and settled on Rarotonga.
This guided tour of the village and performance, complete with buffet, is one of the cultural highlights of any trip to Muri!
15. Explore Anatakitaki Cave
Location: Atiu
Anatakitaki, also known as the Cave of the Kopekas, is a large cave complex located on Atiu Island. Within the cave there is a freshwater lake and many banyan trees.
There is a large population of Atiu swiftlets (kopekas) which live entirely within the cave system and rely on sonar to navigate, just like bats.
Some of the caves have been used by the native Maori people as burial chambers and it’s even possible to see skeletons inside, such as at Rimu Rau Burial Cave.
It’s possible to take a guided tour of the caves, which is recommended as it can be easy to get lost. Getting to the caves involves trekking through Atiu’s lush jungle where you can marvel at the flora and fauna of the island.
16. Take a Tour of a Coffee Plantation and Roastary
Location: Atiu
Atiu is home to a large Arabica coffee plantation and roastery, which was set up by the early missionaries who visited French Polynesia and the surrounding areas.
Atiu’s coffee industry took off in the 1950s and has gone from strength to strength thanks to the organic farming methods used. Atiu coffee is exported around the world (mainly to New Zealand and Europe).
It is possible to book a tour of the plantation and factory through the villas on Atiu. Tours include a tasting of this local delicacy as you learn all about how the drink is produced from bean to mug.
17. Visit the Cook Island Christian Church
Location: Rarotonga
This large, whitewashed church in Raro’s Avarua district is worth a visit for its interesting architecture.
The Cook Islands Christian Church was built in 1852 by the London Missionary Society and is home to the largest congregation across these pacific islands.
The associated graveyard is the final resting place of the Cook Island’s first Prime Minister Albert Henry, and historian and author Robert Dean.
18. Have a Drink at the Koteka Winery
Location: Rarotonga
If you are looking for unusual things to do in the Cook Islands, then head to Koteka Winery in Muri, Rarotonga. Here you can try all manner of interesting concoctions from banana wine to chili vodka.
The winery was first established in 1994 by the Koteka family and has been pleasing visitors for generations with their unique blends.
You can purchase wine directly from the winery, and they also have a stall at the Punanga Nui Market every Saturday.
Conclusion
With so many wonderful things to do in the Cook Islands, from pristine beaches to jungle hikes, from paddle boarding to whale watching, markets, museums, and more, the only question now should be, “What should I do first?”. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to this slice of paradise today!
Featured Image Credit: ChameleonsEye
