Cook Islands

Super useful and totally free travel guides to Cook Islands

View of villa in front of the turquoise water in Cook Islands
Tropical beach in Aitutaki

Why We Love Cook Islands – Someone better tell the Maldives to move over, because the Cook Islands are here to vie for the title of the world’s most beautiful beach destination. And it’s hard to argue with the Cook Islands’ claim – just look at the photos of the crystal clear blue water and the white sandy beaches. Sure, getting there is a challenge to be sure, but it also means fewer people to battle for a stretch of sand between your toes. And you may end up finding that leaving is even harder than coming in the first place!

Best of Cook Islands

🏙️ Destinations

Aerial view of Rarotonga in Cook Islands
Rarotonga aerial view

There are 15 islands that make up the Cook Islands, but the most popular places to visit are:

  • Rarotonga
  • Aitutaki
  • Arorangi

✨ Things to Do

Of course, going to the beach is one of the top things to do in the Cook Islands, but there is a lot more to do:

  • Aroa Beach
  • Raemaru Trek
  • Wigmore’s Waterfall
  • Cook Islands National Museum
  • Muri Lagoon
View of the blue water from Muri Lagoon and some palm trees
Muri Lagoon

Cook Islands Travel Advice

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Cook Islands is generally during the months of September to November. You’ll be able to experience and enjoy the island life with comfortable temperatures but without the usual crowd of tourists.

⚠️ Safety

The Cook Islands is a very safe place to visit. Just remember to practice caution and use common sense when it comes to your belongings to avoid any petty theft incident. It is also a good idea to check the latest US State Department travel advisories for your destination. 

👉 Tips & Things to Know

  • Choose your resort carefully
  • Visit during the fall months
  • Double check the latest travel requirements

🧳 What to Pack

  • Swimsuit
  • Sunscreen
  • DEET-free repellant
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Travel insurance

🤓 Facts & Info

  • Population – 17,600
  • Capital – Avarua District
  • Currency – New Zealand Dollar ($1 = ~1.62 dollars)
  • Language – English and Cook Islands Māori
  • Plugs – Type I, 240V / 50Hz.

💵 Budgeting & Money

In Rarotonga and Aitutaki, most restaurants accept credit cards (Visa and MasterCard, not AMEX), and ATMs are widely available. Still, it’s best to make sure that you have enough cash on hand at all times.

📰 Cook Islands Travel Guides

Getting planning your trip to Cook Islands with all our Cook Islands travel guides: