The Cook Islands is a castaway’s fantasy. Among the most breathtaking of all of the Polynesian isles, the archipelago’s 15 countries lay flung between French Polynesia and Samoa. Transparent turquoise lagoons, volcanic highs, and dazzling palm-fringed coastlines recall the remarkable beauty of Tahiti, however with an even more affordable price.

The make Islands have actually strong ties to brand new Zealand, although nation’s heritage is actually clearly Polynesian, and locals are probably the friendliest worldwide.

Rarotonga, the visible tip of a volcanic cone, is the premier from the make isles and one of the leading locations to check out for vacationers. The laid-back investment, Avarua, will be the industrial and cultural middle on the isles. Across luxurious highs of the inside is a coastal simple, where coconut palms, papaya, bananas, and java plant life grow. Coral reefs ring the area, enclosing a narrow lagoon that provides outstanding diving and snorkeling solutions.

Aitutaki is the 2nd more visited isle. Dotted with 21 small palm-fringed islets, or motu, its sublimely breathtaking lagoon will be the celebrity destination. Different a lot more remote countries draw in adventurers, anglers, and real-life Robinson Crusoes.

Beachcombing, fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, and cycling are preferred things to do throughout these islands, assuming you may need a break from the mud and water, it is possible to hike rich forest trails for mesmerizing vista.

Once you lay vision on these dreamy shores, you’ll see precisely why they rank one of the most gorgeous islands on earth. Wanting to know regarding best locations to see? Talk about our very own range of the utmost effective sites in the prepare countries.

1. Aitutaki Lagoon

This must certanly be what paradise seems like. Aitutaki’s picture-perfect lagoon glows in technicolor colors of turquoise, and 21 beautiful islets (motu) dot the clear waters, tempting that paddle to their shores.

Canoing is a good method to explore these small islets, you could furthermore visit a number of the big islands on cruises or trips. The small island of Maina during the southwest corner for the lagoon supplies excellent snorkeling ventures and is the place to find a lovely sandbar usually “Honeymoon area.” The lagoon is also popular spot for bonefishing, and you will employ regional guides about island.

Should you want to stay directly on the lagoon, the over-the-water bungalows at deluxe Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island hotel perch right above the crystal-clear waters.

2. Tapuaetai (One Foot Isle) Tour

Fringed by carefully curving coconut palms, beautiful Tapuaetai, or One Foot Island since it is generally known, is one of visited of Aitutaki’s motu, and valid reason.

This spectacular isle appears like it belongs in an exotic isle fantasy. It is possible to bask on the shining white sands, wade and snorkel in turquoise lagoon, and also get your passport stamped at small post-office. Hermit crabs scuttle across the coast, and you can walk-around the complete isle in approximately 20 minutes. The isle can be a prominent area for wedding parties.

Tours into the area are among the hottest things to do when you look at the Cook countries from Aitutaki, and a lot of consist of enough time to snorkel. Among the list of ocean life frequently noticed here are huge clams, large trevally, and vibrant colored red coral. Many tours include a barbecue lunch and check outs to many other motu (islets) in the lagoon.

3. Muri Beach, Rarotonga

Throughout the southeast coastline of Rarotonga, Muri seashore or Muri Lagoon, as it is often known as, the most prominent and picturesque beaches regarding the isle. Even though the liquids quality keeps declined recently, the shallows extend into dreamy tones of aquamarine, and snorkelers can easily see most species of exotic fish.