Cook Island is a tiny island country between New Zealand and Hawaii. It boasts a tropical climate all year round, thus making it a perfect getaway for beach holidays. The untouched coasts and unspoiled white sand beaches of this 15-island country offer limitless adventure, romance, rejuvenation, and the thrill of cook island vacations.   

With fewer crowds on the beaches, unexplored luxury, authentic culinary experiences, warm hospitality of its people, and modern conveniences of Cook Island resorts, these islands are ready to be explored.   

If you’re looking for conveniences and a pre-planned holiday to popular destinations, Rarotonga and Aitutaki are your ideal getaways. But, if you want to head on for unexplored adventures and live the authentic life of a Polynesian, Atiu, Mauke, Mangaia, and Mitiaro are the top destinations. Whether watching Kopeka (a bird found only on the Cook Islands in the world), swimming close by whales, or relaxing at pristine, less crowded beaches, Cook Islands activities act as the epicenter of an ideal holiday.   

This blog aims to enlighten you about every important detail related to the Islands for a seamless travel experience. Get answers to questions like where is Cook Island, things to do, cook islands weather, activities, where to stay, and more.   

Table of Content  

• Where is Cook Island  
• Getting Around in Cook Island  
• Things to do in Cook Island  
• Areas to Stay in Cook Island  
• Best time to Visit   
• Things to keep in mind  

Where is Cook Island?   

The Cook Islands are nestled amidst Polynesia in the South Pacific Ocean. Located halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, the island nation lies in the Oceania continent. Visitors can fly to the Islands from New Zealand, Australia, Europe, and more. Non-stop flights are available from Auckland, Pape’ete, Honolulu, and Sydney to the islands.   

Getting Around in the Cook Islands

• Domestic Flight  

Domestic flight Air Rarotonga assists in seamless travel from one Island to another within the Cook Islands.   

• Driving Around  

The best way to get around the Cook Islands is to rent a scooter, cycle, or car according to your needs and requirements. Anyone over 16 years of age and with a valid driving license can drive in and around the islands.   

• Taking Local Bus  

For budget-friendly travel, take the local bus, which moves across the Island in clockwise and anti-clockwise directions. Almost every Island in the country has local transport available for easy and safe travel.   

Things to do in the Cook Islands

• Cultural and Arts Exploration   

Cook Island art and culture amalgamates ancient Polynesian heritage with a modern European twist. Experience ancient tribal life filled with the history of tribal warfare, invasion, and cannibalism. Take island tours to taste traditional music, song, dance, and food. Book your Sunday mornings to attend church services or visit Punanga Nui Markets on a Saturday morning for local interaction. The islands openly and vibrantly share their artistry and culture with the travelers.

Key Highlights:

• Learn about authentic tribal life 
• Akirata Dance Troupe & Ura dance 
• Get insights about Polynesian life and culture  

• Exotic Dining Experience  

A vacation can never end without tasting the authentic cuisine of the destination. Explore coastal cuisines and indulge in gourmet meals at high-class restaurants and cafes around the islands. Stop by local food trucks and stalls in the market for a budget-friendly treat. The Cook Islands’ specialty is seafood and tropical fruits cooked in a unique fusion of Polynesian flavors.

Key Highlights:

• Best seafood and gourmet meals
• Get a taste of Polynesian flavors
• Unique experiences like an overwater dinner buffet  

• Try Unique Land & Water Adventures  

Cook Island activities are packed with various land and water adventures. Whale watching, lagoon cruises, scuba diving, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), sea scooter tours, and fishing are some of the must-try water activities in the Cook Islands. Relaxing at pristine beaches with no crowd, exploring tropical jungles, hiking through lush-green mountains, buggy rides, quad bikes, 4WD, and eco cycle tours are some land adventures worth your attention.   

Key Highlights:

• Lagoon Cruises
• Sea scooter tour
• Eco cycle tours with local guides
• Stand Up Paddle Boarding  

• Enjoy the Bustling Nightlife of the Cook Islands  

Right after the sun sets, the Cook Islands becomes a bustling hotspot of endless entertainment and fun. Chill with flowing drinks at the open-air bars, party bus, and vibrant clubs offering electrifying music and vibes. Parties in the Cook Islands are incredibly safe, welcoming local crowds and providing reliable transportation services that ensure everyone reaches home safely.   

Key Highlights:  

• Open-air bars and party buses
• Safe transportation services to drop you back home

• Local Shopping Expeditions  

Local markets of Rarotonga and other islands offer an exquisite and pocket-friendly shopping experience with a wide array of handicrafts, artworks, fabrics, jewelry, and more. Rito hats made up of stripped coconut fronds, hand-printed pareo (multi-color fabric), local therapeutic oils and fragrances, fans, pandanus mats, carved wooden bowls, spears and paddles, and black pearls are the ultimate souvenirs to take back home. Cook Island vacations are only over with shopping escapades.   

Key Highlights:  

• Punanga Nui Saturday Morning Markets
• Muri Night Markets for dinner
• Handicrafts made from coconut fronds and black pearls  

• Rejuvenating with Spa & Wellness  

Away from the buzzing life of cities, the Cook Islands is a tranquil and noiseless escape soaked in the healing power of nature. Rejuvenate yourselves with a luxurious and extravagant spa at multiple wellness centers around the Island. Go for early morning yoga classes or try a SUP yoga session on the lagoon waters.   

Key Highlights:  

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding Yoga Session
• Spa using locally grown products  

Best Area to Stay in Cook Island

The Cook Islands has different stays to suit your budget and type, from luxurious resorts and villas to homestays and apartments.   

• Luxurious  

Muri Beach or Titikaveka of Rarotonga and Aitutaki has some of the best Cook Island resorts, villas, and luxurious family-friendly stays offering scenic views from the rooms. Also, choose from a variety of suites for a romantic getaway.   

• Deluxe  

Holiday homes and apartments are easily available across all the country’s islands. They offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle but are slightly more affordable than luxurious villas and resorts.   

• Pocket-friendly  

All the islands in this island nation offer budget-friendly stays for travelers while providing them with insights into the rich history, culture, and traditions of Polynesian life. These accommodations provide the complete relaxation of island life.   

Best Time to Visit Cook Islands

Cook Islands weather is a tropical climate with dry summers throughout the year, with an average temperature of 26 degrees Celsius. The same climate all year round makes it suitable for travelers to visit the islands anytime. However, April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit the Cook Islands. November to March is the summer season with high temperatures, humidity, and occasional rainfall.   

Things to keep in mind  

• While on Cook Island vacations, drive on the left-hand side of the road and at a relaxed speed, no faster than 50kmph
• Always go to the morning local market early for the broadest selection of food, apparel, and other items.
• Remember to bring New Zealand Dollars or Cook Islands coins as stalls in the local markets are cash only.
• Get to the markets by bus or if you are driving, park just off the road.
• Bring comfortable clothes, footwear, and swimwear since the weather is mostly sunny.
• Carry sunscreen, sun creams, and other products to protect yourself from UV Rays.    

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Conclusion  

The islands of this country are hidden treasures of Polynesia with unexplored islands, unspoiled pristine beaches, and authentic island life. Cook island vacations are perfect for an ideal beach holiday with less crowds, more greenery, and calm air. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore the hidden gem of Oceania. Book your tickets to Cook Island now and experience a relaxing holiday away from the bustle of the city.   

Discover Cook Islands FAQs

Which language is spoken in the Cook Islands?  

English and Maori are widely spoken in the Cook Islands. Almost everyone in the Cook Islands uses English as a mode of communication. However, some outer islands like Pa Enua use Maori as their predominant language. 

What is the best time to visit the Cook Islands?  

Cook Islands experience the same climate all year round, thus making it suitable for travelers to visit at any time of the month. However, April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit the Cook Islands.

What currency is used in the Cook Islands?

New Zealand dollar is used in the Cook Islands. Local coins and notes are also widely used throughout the islands. However, these local coins are only legal tender in the Cook Islands. 

How to dress in the Cook Islands?

There’s no dress code in the Cook Islands. Travelers can wear light and comfortable clothes since the temperature is mostly warm. However, one is expected to avoid wearing brief attire when visiting churches and villages.