Six of the best things do to in the Cook Islands

It might be a long way to go, but the Cook Islands are well worth the trek. Traditionally sold as a beach extension to Australia or New Zealand, the Cook Islands are becoming increasingly popular as a stand-alone holiday destination.

Scattered across 2.2 million square metres of serene ocean - halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii - the Cook Islands boast unspoilt landscapes, an idyllic climate welcoming people with heartfelt smiles, and a peaceful and simple way of life.

The following are just 6 of the many, many, things to do in Cook Islands, and you'll soon see that there is so much to do and see here.

#1

Party with the locals

Discover a fun nightlife scene like no other. Open air bars, pub crawl tour buses, discos and more - everybody's welcome, and there are surprises around every corner.

#2

Discover Atiutaki

A beautiful bird sanctuary full of natural wonders, including cool caves and caverns, and a shipwrecked beach that you can enjoy all to yourself.

#3

Indulge in exquisite cuisine

There are many ways to tantalise your taste buds here, from joining an evening island cultural show and tucking in to local delights, to enjoying a progressive dinner with the locals. Everyone must stop at a roadside stall for a fresh nu (coconut) too.

#4

Join a unique tour to learn and discover

Storytelling bike tours around the island, fruit picking, jungle 4WD safaris, island hikes with Pa, traditional village tours..and that's just for starters.

#5

Wonder at the pristine beauty of Aitutaki Lagoon

Journalists consistently call this 'the world's most beautiful island and lagoon'. Take a lagoon cruise and see for yourself - the colour blue us redefined here.

#6

Engage with the locals

Cook Islanders love interacting with visitors, and the people themselves are fun and outgoing, with an intriguing history and a love for sharing their Polynesian culture.