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The Cook Islands

Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2025

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Happy teenage boy on a kayak at tropical lagoon in fron of exotic island

© Blue Orange Studio/Shutterstock

Overview

Fifteen droplets of land cast across 2 million sq km of wild Pacific blue, the Cook Islands are simultaneously remote and accessible, modern and traditional.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Aitutaki Lagoon

    Aitutaki Lagoon

    Aitutaki

    Aitutaki’s stunning lagoon, brimming with marine life and ringed by 15 palm-covered motu (islets), is a South Pacific tearsure. Maina (Little Girl) offers…

  • Muri Beach on Rarotonga in the Cook Islands

    Muri

    Rarotonga

    With its four motu (islets), Muri is the most beautiful section of Rarotonga’s encircling lagoon. The blue water is packed with tropical fish, especially…

  • Anatakitaki Cave.

    Anatakitaki

    The Cook Islands

    Eerie Anatakitaki is ‘Atiu’s most spectacular cave, a multichambered cavern surrounded by banyan roots and thick jungle. It’s also home to the rare kopeka…

  • Vai Nauri

    The Cook Islands

    A real highlight in this region is the deep sparkling-blue Vai Nauri, Mitiaro’s natural swimming pool. Local women used to hold gatherings known as…

  • Motuanga

    The Cook Islands

    Motuanga (the Cave of 100 Rooms) is a complex of tunnels and caverns in the island’s southeast that’s said to extend all the way under the reef and out to…

  • Vai Tango

    The Cook Islands

    Vai Tango is the best cave for swimming, a short walk from Ngatiarua village. Schoolkids often head there at weekends and after school, and they can show…

  • Te Ana O Rakanui

    The Cook Islands

    Te Ana O Rakanui is a burial cave packed with musty old skulls and skeletal remains. It’s a tight squeeze inside – claustrophobics be warned.

  • Rangimotia

    The Cook Islands

    At 169m, Rangimotia is the highest point on the island, with stunning coastal views. From the Oneroa side, a dirt road leads to the top.

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Rarotonga and the Cook Islands are iconic Polynesia. From fire-dancing performances to golden hour on the beach, here's what to do in the South Pacific.

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Best Time to Visit

Whenever you visit Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, you'll find fascinating landscapes and culture at every turn. Here are the best times to visit.

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Things to Know

If you’re heading to Rarotonga or the rest of the Cook Islands, read up on these tips covering practicalities, health, etiquette and more.

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Go Beyond

The Cook Islands and beyond

Beyond The Cook Islands
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