Specials Trip Finder Brochures Menu
Australia & South Pacific

Cook Islands Vacations, Tours & Travel Packages

  • Aitutaki's Beautiful Lagoon is a must inclusion and a highlight of all Cook Islands vacation packages
  • Cook Islands
  • Beach Fishing with the locals is a fun thing to do on all Cook Islands vacations
  • Enjoying the surf on your trip to the Cook Islands
  • Explore amazing beaches on your Cook Islands vacation
  • Island night show are included at many Cook Islands resorts
Cook Islands

The Cook Islands could be the best kept secret in the South Pacific when it comes to a truly natural (not manufactured) paradise. Located north east of New Zealand, it consists of 15 islands formed by volcanic activity, each one with its own individual character. The Cook Islanders are citizens of New Zealand as they have free association with that country but at the same time are independently governed. It is not surprising that the Cook Islands’ most important industry is tourism. This is due to not only its natural beauty and wonderful beaches but also due to its extremely friendly people who are smiling, spontaneous and warm-hearted and influenced by their Polynesian culture, all ingredients for an enjoyable Cook Islands vacation.

Why should I travel to the Cook Islands?

The reasons for a Cook Islands vacation are many but include just relaxing, snorkeling, scuba diving, exploring and learning about the history of the islands. It is also a very popular wedding and honeymoon destination with an ideal climate all year round. Another attraction is its stunning scenery. The Cook Islands is where time stands still. There is no sense of urgency here. There are no traffic lights!

How do I get to the Cook Islands?

The point of entry is the main island of Rarotonga, the most populated island. It is only 32 kilometres/20 miles in circumference. The island is surrounded by a lagoon which often extends more than a hundred metres to the reef then slopes steeply into deep water. The interior is dominated by volcanic peaks cloaked in dense vegetation and largely unpopulated. The island is encircled by one main road and has only 2 bus routes.

What are the best things to do and see on a Cook Islands Vacation?

On a Cook Islands vacation, one travels clockwise around the perimeter of Rarotonga and the other - anticlockwise. If you take the bus, you can request to stop off anywhere that suits you en route. You can also rent a bicycle, motor bike or car to drive around the island. On your journey, regardless of mode of transportation, you will see jagged pinnacles jutting out of the interior, terraces below them where bananas, coconuts, pineapples and paw paw grow and small villages. Also watch out for traditional Marae, the sacred ceremonial grounds. As for the white sand beaches and palm-fringed blue lagoons, these are evenly distributed around the island as are the resort hotels.

An outrigger is local transportation for some Cook Islanders

Which Islands should I visit on my holiday?

The capital of Rarotonga is Avarua, the largest town in the Cook Islands with a population of around 6000 people. The town has two harbours and a selection of hotels in or close to Avarua. One of the highlights here is the colourful daily market (except Sundays). For dining or just relaxing with a coffee, there is ample choice here. Want to explore the interior? You can join a guided cross-island walk or take a 3 to 4 hour four wheeled drive safari. Or if time is short, consider an inexpensive 20 minute scenic flight.

The second most important island and most visited after Rarotonga is Aitutaki. It is more tranquil and peaceful and is a great inclusion to your Cook Islands vacation. It is also nicknamed the “Honeymoon Island”. Aitutaki, triangular in shape, is surrounded by a barrier reef with palm-fringed beaches and is stunningly beautiful, a veritable Garden of Eden. The soil here is extremely fertile and produces many tropical fruits and vegetables. It also boasts the oldest church in the Cook Islands. Obviously, it’s a paradise for water sports such as scuba diving and snorkeling. Consider also attending the Saturday market for souvenirs.

Another island worth visiting on a Cook Islands vacation is Atiu, unspoilt and lush with dense rainforest. It is the third largest island but with a population of only 600. Atiu offers secluded sandy beaches, a coral ring around the island, small villages and amazing birdlife. Here consider a visit to the Anatakitaki Cave with its interesting limestone formations.

For the shopper, the Cook Islands offers woodcarvings, a common local art form including wooden seats, ceremonial tools and weaving including mats, baskets, hats and patchwork quilts. Also you can purchase paintings and sculptures produced by local artists.

What adventure activities can I experience on my holiday?

Apart from the active pastimes of scuba diving, snorkeling, bike riding, horseback riding and hiking, you can also go deep-sea fishing in the Cook Islands. An interesting suggested visit is to attend a church service on Sunday where you are likely to hear wonderful A Cappella singing. Another form of entertainment is to take in an Island show where you can experience traditional Cook Island dancing accompanied by drumming.

Stressed out or just lazy by nature, the Cook Islands can rejuvenate you or simply provide you with a relaxing vacation. But don’t forget all the other activities on offer. At Goway we can customize a Cook Islands vacation to suit your own personal needs, interest and budget.

 

Blog Articles

Relax and Play on a Remote Getaway to the Cook Islands!

History of the Cook Islands

See What the Cook Islands Offer Up for Food Lovers!

Nine marvelous reasons to visit the Cook Islands

Six Idyllic Islands Escapes for Couples

Escape to the Cook Islands and Live Like a Local in Paradise

Romance and Relaxation on a Cook Islands Vacation

Experience 5-Star Luxury in the Cook Islands

Cook Islands – Laid Back and Easily Reachable

See What the Cook Islands Offer Up for Food Lovers!

Get Active in the Cooks!

Five Cool Ways to Explore the Cooks

Nine marvelous reasons to visit the Cook Islands

The Cook Islands – Your Winter Escape Plan

 

 

 

Cook Islands Vacation Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy to navigate travel information section dedicated to a Cook Islands vacation.

Learn about the history and culture of the Cook Islands, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about the Cook Islands nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering the Cook Islands for yourself. Start exploring...book one of our Cook Island vacations today!

 

Extend Your Stay

Consider an additional stopover after or before your Cook island vacation at one of Goway's other South Pacific destinations. You can choose from our selection of Australian vacations, New Zealand vacation packages, Tahiti vacation packages or perhaps one of our Fiji resorts.

 

Read More

Cook Islands

  • Price:
    Duration:

    • Other Ways to Go

    • Go Your Way...Tailor-made

    • How to Go

    Applied:
    Apply filter changes:

  • Palm Grove Cook Islands Escape for Couples

    Set in the quiet, enchanting area of Vaima on the stunning southern coast, Palm Grove features the peace and tranquility of one of the best locations on Rarotonga.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 1,261
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Essence of the Cook Islands: Rarotonga, Aitutaki

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Escape to the Cook Islands to experience the beauty of its two major islands. On this Cook Islands vacation you'll visit both Rarotonga and Aitutaki, where you'll stay in comfortable beachside accommodations and be free to explore the picturesque lagoons and beaches of this South Pacific nation.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 2,142
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Cook Islands Long Stay

    MODERATE | LONG STAY: Imagine a month on your very own island paradise. The Cook Islands offers you what you have been looking for, whether it's that romantic getaway, downtime with your family or just an excuse to get away from it all.
    Duration:
    30 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ On Request
    Trip Type:
    Snowbird Long Stays
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa: Idyllic Retreats Collection

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa is renowned on the island of Rarotonga for the luxury their 3 villas provide to guests wanting top class villa accommodation with full servicing and personal attention.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 2,591
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Romance & Honeymoon
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Discover Radiant Rarotonga

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Start your stay with an island tour, circling Rarotonga to get a lay of the land. In the company of a local guide, you’ll learn about Polynesian culture and how to adjust to the laidback rhythms of island time. Cruise the lagoon in a glass bottom boat to Koromiri Island for a BBQ lunch.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 1,039
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Essence of Aitutaki

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Escape to the Cook Islands to spend your days lounging on the beaches of Aitutaki and enjoying the tropical comforts of your resort. Snorkel through the warm waters of the South Pacific, dine on incredible Polynesian cuisine as you watch the sunset over the ocean, and get to know the world-famous hospitality of the Cook Islanders.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 2,116
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort

    Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort is the only resort set directly on breathtaking Aitutaki Lagoon, offering breathtaking views of arguably the world’s most beautiful lagoon.
    Duration:
    6-13 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 2,359
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Lagoon Breeze Villas

    Lagoon Breeze Villas is located opposite its own stunning white sandy beach on a marine reserve in the south-west coast of Rarotonga.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 543
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Live Like a Local: Cook Islands

    FIRST-CLASS | LONG STAY: Head to the exotic Cook Islands in the South Pacific and live amongst the friendly locals. Spend your days in the gorgeous ocean waters and exploring the mainlands, enjoying the company of the amazing Cook Islanders and adapting to their leisurely island rhythms.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Snowbird Long Stays, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Muri Beachcomber

    Muri Beachcomber is a small, intimate property superbly located on beautiful Muri Lagoon - 22 units ensure a truly relaxing atmosphere.
    Duration:
    6-13 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 1,060
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Pacific Resort Aitutaki

    Secluded Luxury. Like a siren of the South Pacific, Aitutaki seduces you. This magical place is home to Pacific Resort Aitutaki – Cook Islands , the “World’s Leading Boutique Island Resort” (World Travel Awards) and a member of “Small Luxury Hotels of the World”.
    Duration:
    6-13 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 2,544
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon
    Cook Islands See Trip Details

  • Sunset Resort

    The Sunset Resort is a beachfront property set on the sheltered western side of the island, 5 minutes from the airport and 8 minutes from the town of Avarua.
    Duration:
    6-13 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 891
    Trip Type:
    Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon
    Cook Islands See Trip Details
Trip Finder

What our travelers say

Trustpilot

Goway Toolkit

Need help planning your holiday? Our toolkit is a great place to get started.

Cook Islands