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Aitutaki in the Cook Islands, South Pacific has idyllic lagoons with white sand and clear water
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Aitutaki Vacation Packages and Tours

Aitutaki Lagoon
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Overview

Take a trip to Aitutaki on your Cook Islands Vacation

Situated north of the main Cook Island, Rarotonga and 45 minutes away by plane, the island of Aitutaki is internationally renowned for its stunning lagoon, coral reefs and small islets. It has been described as picture-perfect and breathtakingly beautiful. On a Cook Islands vacation, this is because of its exotic palm-fringed beaches and the turquoise-coloured sea lapping against its shores. It is almost totally surrounded by a coral reef.  

It is the second most visited island in the Cook Islands and was featured on the hit television show, “Survivor”. Visitors here can enjoy snorkeling trips and boat cruises to the deserted islets on a Cook Islands vacation. The best known is One Foot Island, reached also by a sandbank and voted Australasia’s leading beach.

The island’s rural back-roads are fascinating to explore as well as the many interesting marae (sacred meeting grounds) and beautiful coral walled churches. You can rent a bike, scooter or car and go exploring. Two major sports in the Cook Islands are scuba diving and saltwater fly fishing. For golf enthusiasts, there is a 9-hole golf course.

At a Glance

Languages

English, Maori

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

What do the experts say?

Jessica Scott

Jessica Scott

Team Lead
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Te Maeva Nui is the Cook Islands' biggest annual cultural celebration, held every August to mark the anniversary of the nation's self-governance. The festival features colorful parades, traditional music and dance, handicrafts, and local food. It’s a vibrant showcase of the islands’ heritage and community spirit. Attending Te Maeva Nui gives travelers a unique chance to see the culture come alive and connect with locals in a joyful, festive setting
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Rochelle Vierus, Destination Specialist

Rochelle Vierus

Destination Specialist
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The islands are deeply Christian, and on Sundays almost everything shuts down — shops, cafés, tours. Instead, visitors are welcome to attend vibrant church services full of incredible a cappella singing. It’s one of the most authentic cultural experiences you can have.

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