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The South Pacific
Destination Guides:
Exclusive Resorts:
Cook Islands Activities
Like many of the islands of the South Pacific, many guests come to the Cook Islands merely for a respite from the rigors of everyday life; to “get away from it all” and enjoy a time of sunshine, read that book you’ve been saving, or spend some romantic time with that special someone.
However, if you’d like to take some time off from “taking time off”, there are more than enough active pursuits available on the various Cook Islands to keep you busy. From watersports to hiking to cultural tours, a large choice awaits the island visitor who wishes to soak in a bit of the local flavor.
Watersports
With so much water surrounding the 15 Cook Islands, you can imagine why watersports would be king here. The crystal clear waters of the islands’ many lagoons make exploring the water even more breathtaking.
If you’re a scuba enthusiast, you won’t be disappointed when you book a diving holiday at this wonderful South Pacific destination. Coral is abundant, marine life is rich, and there are more than enough caves and canyons to explore that even the most die-hard diver will be thrilled.
The most tourist-infiltrated islands of Rarotonga and Aitutaki both boast a number of dive outfitters eager to escort certified divers on an exciting Cook Islands scuba excursion. Some of the more popular dive destinations include Anchors Mistake, Smurf City, Matavera Wall, Sand River, Avaavaroa passage and caves, Papua break and caves, Sunset reef and lava tube swim-throughs, Black Rock, the Mataora wreck, and the Maritime Reefer wreck.
You’ll be swimming with a wealth of incredible marine life including an array of tropical fish as well as sharks, manta rays, and not-so-fierce barracuda. Dives vary enough that you’re sure to find one appropriate for your skill level, and certification classes are offered as well.
Fishing with friends – old or new – is another great way to spend your Cook Islands leisure time. Bait and fly fishing are possible in the waters of Aitutaki’s lagoon and game fishing excursions are quite plentiful and easy to book, and can be enjoyed year round. Expect to catch Marlin, Mahi Mahi, and Yellow-fin Tuna throughout the year and Wahoo and Barracuda from July to November.
Boating includes sailing on the vast waters of the Pacific (Rarotonga has a sailing club) and kayaking in the lagoons. Tourist boats, like those of the glass-bottom variety, are popular with visitors, too.
There are a few locations where locals like to surf, but the waves aren’t as reliable as they are on a number of other South Pacific islands.
Hiking
Hiking is best enjoyed on the “high” islands, especially Rarotonga, with its mountainous interior region. The island capital, as a matter of fact, offers a series of groomed trails – 13 in all – that allow guests to explore the island. One even takes trekkers from coast to coast through the center of the island on paths of great historical significance. Atiu, Mauke, and Mangaia islands are also popular with hikers.
Cultural Visits
For visitors who wish to learn a bit about the history and culture of the Cook Islands, a village visit is in order. Rarotonga boasts an “official” Cultural Village, which has been lauded as superb by many guide books. Tours usually include a meal and, of course, singing and dancing, as music is a major part of Cook Islands life.
Horticultural and agricultural tours are also popular and allow guests to explore plantations, botanical gardens, and see how Cook Islanders make their living from the land.