Off the Beaten Track to... Aitutaki
Think of palm-fringed white sands, crystal clear, warm seas and imagine an atmosphere of pure relaxation... now you are starting to picture the island of Aitutaki. Aitutaki is the second most visited island in the Cook Islands after its near neighbour Rarotonga. It is remote, it is beautiful and it is the perfect place for lying on the beach and doing as little or as much as you want to.
The Cook Islands are a popular destination for New Zealanders, Australians, families and honeymooners from all over the world partly because this island paradise is so accessible. It's just a few hours by plane from Auckland, and once in Rarotonga, it is less than an hour (by air again) to Aitutaki. Flights leave daily from Rarotonga to Aitutaki - making the short extra journey is well worth the expense.
Things To Do on Aitutaki
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- Nothing – Lie on the beach, eat coconuts, read, drink, relax and dream...
- Snorkelling – A wonderfully relaxing activity with plenty to see under the sea for snorkellers of all ages and abilities. The water doesn't get any clearer or warmer, so this is definitely the time to give snorkelling a try.
- Diving - The warm, clear water of Aitutaki is like a dream come true for divers. You'll get a close up view of tropical fish and coral, maybe eagle rays, turtles and reef sharks too.
- Fishing – Fish from the outer reef for barracuda or tuna or head into the wonderful waters of the South Pacific to catch some of the big sport fish, tuna and wahoo.
- Whale watching - Humpback whales can be spotted, even from the shore, between the beginning of July to the end of October. If you are outside the reef, fishing, diving or snorkelling, there is a good chance you will see a humpback whale – a truly amazing sight.
- Island (motu) hopping – Touring the lagoon and visiting the small outlying and uninhabited islands is a must-do experience. Lagoon tours come in a variety of different sized boats, including ones with glass-bottoms, so you'll be able to find one that suits you – most tours, if not all, offer lots of snorkelling and swimming opportunities.
- Island nights – The singing, dancing and drumming performed by local groups is truly engaging and by attending a local island night, you're also supporting the local community and next generation of dancers. You will get to try traditional Cook Islands' dishes including the traditional staple, taro and local fish.
- Kayaking – Most accommodations will provide a kayak with paddles for you to use and there's no better way to spend a long, lazy afternoon on the water here.
- Sailing – Young sailors can join the locals in learning the basics at Aitutaki's lagoon. The mornings are for complete beginners, while the more able practise their skills in the afternoon. (There are no commercial sailing companies in Aitutaki).
- Visiting the villages, dining out and shopping for local arts and crafts – Go early for shopping, take lots of water (it gets hot) – and don't go on a Sunday (the shops are closed and you won't be able to get any alcohol!)
Useful Cook Island Links
To help plan your holiday in the Cook Islands, choose from the main categories below:
