Panoramic landscape with Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay in the background

Things to do in  Cook Islands

South Pacific perfection

Lying roughly halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii in the South Pacific Ocean are the 15 little islands of the Cook Islands. The most popular—and populated—are Rarotonga and Aitutaki, and visitors to these idyllic destinations don’t have to look hard for their perfect beach vacation. For the intrepid traveler, there are other places to visit and things to do beyond these two islands. You might want to take extended leave from work though, as they’re spread over more than 772,204 square miles (2 million square kilometers).

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Top activities in Cook Islands

Half-Day Muri Lagoon BBQ Lunch Cruise including Snorkeling

Half-Day Muri Lagoon BBQ Lunch Cruise including Snorkeling

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$64.51
Premium Sea Scooter Turtle Adventure
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out

Premium Sea Scooter Turtle Adventure

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$116.69
4-Hour Rarotonga Going Troppo Nightlife Tour

4-Hour Rarotonga Going Troppo Nightlife Tour

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$51.20
Cook Islands Turtle Tour

Cook Islands Turtle Tour

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$54.68
Cook Islands Turtle and Ray Tour

Cook Islands Turtle and Ray Tour

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$54.68
'Explore' Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour with Lunch and Swim

'Explore' Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour with Lunch and Swim

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$85.40
3-Hour Rarotonga Island Discovery Tour

3-Hour Rarotonga Island Discovery Tour

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$58.29
Seat in Coach Transfer from Rarotonga Airport to Hotel

Seat in Coach Transfer from Rarotonga Airport to Hotel

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$22.73
'Discover' Rarotonga Cycling Tour with Lunch

'Discover' Rarotonga Cycling Tour with Lunch

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$73.11
Rarotonga Turtle Tour
Special Offer

Rarotonga Turtle Tour

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$43.74
$54.68  $10.94 savings
Rarotonga Turtle & Ray Tour
Special Offer

Rarotonga Turtle & Ray Tour

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$48.66
per group
$60.82  $12.16 savings
Seat in Coach Transfer from Rarotonga Hotel to Airport

Seat in Coach Transfer from Rarotonga Hotel to Airport

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$22.73
Rarotonga International Arrivals Seat in Coach Transfer

Rarotonga International Arrivals Seat in Coach Transfer

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$31.95
VIP Arrival Transfer from Rarotonga Airport to Hotel

VIP Arrival Transfer from Rarotonga Airport to Hotel

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$116.73
per group
Premium Sea Scooter Lagoon Discovery
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out

Premium Sea Scooter Lagoon Discovery

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$86.01
Cook Islands Semi-Private TURTLE tour

Cook Islands Semi-Private TURTLE tour

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$92.16
Avarua Historical Walking Tour

Avarua Historical Walking Tour

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$34.41
Half-Day Rarotonga Private Scenic Island Excursion

Half-Day Rarotonga Private Scenic Island Excursion

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$349.73
VIP Departure Transfer from Hotel to Rarotonga Airport

VIP Departure Transfer from Hotel to Rarotonga Airport

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$116.73
per group
Afternoon Stroll Walking Tour

Afternoon Stroll Walking Tour

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$35.63
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All about Cook Islands

When to visit

The peak season in the Cook Islands is July and August, the dry season in the island nation. The weather is mostly clear in these months, with slightly lower temperatures and humidity. The shoulder season months of April, May, September, and October are a good alternative. Note that the Cook Islands, especially Rarotonga, are popular with New Zealand and Australian families, so visit outside of school holidays for lower prices and fewer tourists.

Getting around

Most visitors stay on Rarotonga. Here, there’s a local bus that does a circuit of the island that takes about an hour. Alternatively, rent a car or scooter. You need a local license to ride a scooter, which requires sitting a theoretical and practical test. Some travelers take a domestic flight over to Aitutaki, where you can also rent a scooter. Some other outer islands can be reached by domestic flight or boat and should be planned in advance due to limited availability.

Traveler tips

The Cook Islands are a self-governing country in “free association” with New Zealand, and Cook Islanders are New Zealand citizens. But whether you’re a Kiwi or traveling to the Cook Islands from New Zealand, remember it’s not the same country. New Zealand citizens can stay for up to 90 days, and everyone else up to 31. New Zealand dollars are the official currency, but you’ll need a local SIM card to use your cellphone. And learning a few words of Cook Islands Maori won’t hurt.

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People Also Ask

Is there much to do in the Cook Islands?

Yes, there’s plenty to do in the Cook Islands. Most travelers visit Rarotonga or Aitutaki, two of the 15 islands—Rarotonga has the most options. Relax on a beach, go swimming or snorkeling, paddle a kayak in the lagoon, take a glass-bottom boat tour, and hit up the Saturday markets.

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How many days do you need in the Cook Islands?

Seven days is a perfect amount of time to spend in the Cook Islands. While you could spend weeks exploring all 15 islands, most travelers only visit Rarotonga or Aitutaki. A week is ideal for relaxing on the beach and enjoying some water sports and other gentle sightseeing activities.

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What are the Cook Islands known for?

The Cook Islands are known for their beautiful beaches, calm lagoons, and hospitable local people. The idyllic South Pacific vacation destination is especially popular with New Zealand tourists.

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How much money do you need for a week in Rarotonga?

That depends on your activities, whether you stay in a luxurious resort and dine out (anywhere from NZ$3,500-$10,000), or choose hostels and prepare your own food (NZ$1,500). Accommodation and food costs are high here, but Rarotonga has the most low-budget options.

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Can you use NZ money in Rarotonga?

Yes, the New Zealand dollar is the official currency of the Cook Islands (Rarotonga is one of 15 islands). New Zealand dollar cash and/or card payments are widely accepted. You might receive local Cook Islands coins or notes in your change, and these can’t be used in New Zealand.

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How long can a NZ citizen stay in Rarotonga?

New Zealand citizens can stay in the Cook Islands (including Rarotonga) for up to 90 days. Travelers with other passports can stay up to 31 days. You must have proof of a return ticket upon arrival

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What is the best month to visit the Cook Islands?

July and August are the most popular times of year to visit the Cook Islands because the weather is generally warm and clear. These months coincide with mid-winter in New Zealand and Australia, where many travelers arrive from. April, May, September, and October are also mostly fine.

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
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What are the top activities in Cook Islands?
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