Welcome to our comprehensive Cook Islands Travel Guide, the ultimate resource for planning your dream Cook Islands holiday. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific, the Cook Islands are a mosaic of vibrant culture, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural beauty, making them an idyllic destination for travellers seeking a unique escape.

Whether you're a solo explorer, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a family looking for an adventure-filled holiday, our guide has something for everyone. With our expertly curated Cook Islands holiday packages, you can experience the best of these islands without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Discover Aitutaki, a jewel among these islands, known for its stunning lagoon and luxurious resorts. Our Aitutaki resort deals offer an exclusive escape into this paradise, blending comfort with unforgettable experiences. For those looking for a broader exploration, our Cook Islands holidays and Cook Islands travel tips provide insights into each island's unique charm, from the bustling markets of Rarotonga to the secluded beaches of Atiu.

In this guide, you'll find essential information on the best time of year to visit, how to get there, where to stay, what to eat, and the top activities to ensure your Cook Islands holiday is both memorable and magical.

Everything You Need to Know About The Cook Islands

Who should go to the Cook Islands?

Everyone and anyone, the Cook Islands has something for every type of traveller. 
Ocean fanatics are covered with the beautiful lagoons, nature lovers can explore the lush tropical rainforest & foodies can try the different restaurants, local markets and the abundance of fresh seafood.
If you want more Cook Islands Holiday inspiration, check out our 12 Things you didn’t know about The Cook Islands Blog or 5 Travel tips for the Cook Islands Blog.

Best time of year to visit the Cook Islands?

The weather is perfect year round, with temperatures ranging between 22°C- 29°C and a water temperature between 24-28°C, there is no wrong time to go. Their drier months are April to November. If you want to go whale watching travel from July – October or for if Kitesurfing is your thing, the best time is May to October.

How to get to the Cook Islands?

From Australia, we are lucky to have three airlines offering flight routes. Air New Zealand offers direct flights from Sydney on a Friday and returning from the Cook Islands on a Thursday. Air New Zealand, Jetstar and Virgin Australia offer flights from major Australian ports via Auckland.
Once there, Air Rarotonga operates daily flights to the outer lines and also scenic flights from Rarotonga.

Where to stay in the Cook Islands?

Depending on the type of traveller you are, the Cook Islands offers a large range of accommodation option. From budget to luxury, we have listed a few to get you started.

Rarotonga
Families –The Edgewater Resort & Spa, The Rarotongan Beach Resort or Nautilus Resort
Adults only – Moana Sands Lagoon Resort or Manuia Beach Resort
Luxury Adults only –Sea Change Villas, Little Polynesian Resort or Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa

Aitutaki
Families – Aitutaki Village
Mid Range – Etu Moana or Tamanu Beach.
Luxury Adults only – Aitutaki Escape & Pacific Resort Aitutaki Nui

Where to Eat.

Food lovers have a variety of options awaiting on the main island of Rarotonga. There will be no chance of you running out of options, from local delicacies of Poke (sweet banana dish) to Ika Mata a raw fish dish there is something for everyone. For more suggestion read our Eat your way around Rarotonga Blog.

Island Night in the Cook Islands

No trip to the Cook Islands is complete without taking in a night of singing, dancing, drumming and great food. Therefore an Island night is a must.

Our suggestions would be:
Te Vara Nui Village -The only Over Water Island Show on Rarotonga delivering an electric authentic cultural performance like no other. During the show, you’ll enjoy a delicious Island/Western Fusion Buffet.
Highlands Paradise – the ‘Drums of our Forefathers’ show allows you to immerse yourself in a cultural village, followed by an Umu (underground oven) while the descendants of Ariki (High Chief) Tinomana entertain you with a story of their ancient heritage.
The Edgewater Resort & Spa – Takurua Na Te Ariki Night. Enjoy a buffet dinner while the resort resident Panara Boys Band and cultural dancers entertainer you.

Best Sight Seeing Options in the Cook Islands

There is an endless list of things that you can do in the Cook Islands, not only are they based on the beautiful lagoon, but the highlands of the island off so much. Check out our current blog on What to do in the Cook Islands 2019 for inspiration. 

We hope this helps you with planning your trip to the Cook Islands. Check our current Cook Islands holiday packages on offer or if you can’t find what suits your needs, please get in touch with our team of specialist travel consultants on 1800 800 722.