Top Things to do in Cook Islands
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What to do and see in Cook Islands, Cook Islands: The Best Nature & Parks
If you're sitting at your desk having Robinson Crusoe daydreams, the Cook Islands might be a great vacation place for you. It doesn't get much more remote or more beautiful—what with the perfect beaches, deep jungle and coral lagoons. Each of the 15 islands seems more breathtaking than the last.
Restaurants in Cook Islands
1. Anatakitaki Cave (Kopeka Cave)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 63 reviews
The most well known of Atiu's limestone caves, it is named for the Kopeka birds that build nests in between the stalactites of the cavern. These birds navigate through the dark caves, guided by the echoes of their clicking sounds.
Reviewed By 5Aitutaki
The trek to the caves is a half an hour walk through the beautiful nature. Wear walking shoes and insect repellent!
2. One Foot Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,063 reviews
This tiny island in Aitutaki's beautiful lagoon contains a post office and a single cabin that can be rented by visitors. Most visitors just come for the day to experience the tranquil location and to snorkel in the lagoon.
Reviewed By sandy6662016 - Auckland Central, New Zealand
Our lagoon cruise excellent tour guide described the history and legends behind One Foot Island and how it got its unique name. Quite beautiful and a magical place for sure. Got our passports officially stamped with a unique One Foot Island visa stamp. A novel addition to a pretty full passport.
3. Moturakau
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 28 reviews
This deserted island was the location used for the British TV series Shipwrecked, where 16 people were left on an uninhabited island to fend for themselves.
Reviewed By MiBri53 - Germany, null
Situated in the lagoon of Aitutaki and just about 15 minutes by boat from One Foot Island Motu Rakau is just the right place for a stop and a little walk through the dense forest. Watch out for nesting bird. One side of the islet shows coral beach rock, the other beautiful sand beach.
4. Te Rua Rere
5. Aitutaki Lagoon
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,070 reviews
These waters are home to a large number of fish, making it a favorite spot for snorkeling or scuba diving.
Reviewed By TavellingTony000 - Sydney, Australia
Paradise is the best word to describe this natural wonder. I was in awe of its vast space and beauty, Book in one of the lagoon cruses, it will be your highlight of any trip to the Cook Islands.
6. Bonefish - E2's Way
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 78 reviews
Take up the challenge of the monster Bonefish of Aitutaki with renowned Bonefish Guide, Itu Davey. The beautiful Aitutaki Lagoon is home to the worlds largest Bonefish. For fly fishermen seeking the challenge of a lifetime the 'ghost of the flats' presents one of the most thrilling angling opportunities available. The huge bonefish (kiokio) of Aitutaki Lagoon can be a real challenge to catch, Itu's extensive knowledge of the flats and legendary fish spotting ability help tip the odds in your favour.
Reviewed By colinbC2261TU
I had never caught a bonefish, and very few sea fish for that matter, before venturing out for a day on the lagoon with Itu's younger brother Tia whilst my wife stayed on the beach to catch up with her reading. 7 hours later I returned, having hooked 8 beautiful turbocharged bonefish and landed 5, together with 7 smaller fish of different species. Prior to taking on the Bonefish I enjoyed a couple of hours trying to hook a GT without success but with some heart-stopping moments as fish in the 50kg category followed and slashed at my stick bait lure. I may have had the odd fish taking a boat out on my own but, and whilst I can take a small amount of the credit for playing the fish out, the truth is that my success was largely down to the way I was guided onto the fish and properly geared up by Tia. An unmissable experience for any angler, of whatever experience, visiting Aitutaki!
7. O'otu Beach
8. Taakoka
9. Te Rua Manga (The Needle)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 291 reviews
This tall, rocky pinnacle can be spotted from several locations on the island and is a favorite challenge for those who enjoy a good climb.
Reviewed By Bree1991 - Newcastle, Australia
We trekked from the Pāpua waterfall up to the needle and back. Quite a challenging but beautiful walk. Extremely slippery in some sections and I did slip over a couple of times going down hill. Stunning stream trickling for most of the walk. Give yourself plenty of time and take lots of water. Barry the rooster greeted us up the top! Nice swim in the waterfall at the end of the walk. Definitely don’t do as I did and wear and white singlet. It soon turns muddy and brown!
10. Muri Lagoon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 877 reviews
One of the island's most beautiful locations, this lagoon and beach is a popular destination for swimming and snorkeling.
Reviewed By Kinkoona - Sydney, Australia
One of the many excellent aquatic locations on the island - but a “must do”. Lagoon itself is excellent as a beach and swim spot - it also has access to hiring things such as paddle boards, kayaks and snorkeling gear. Koka and Captain Tama day trips also leave from here and there is a few spots on the beach to get a drink/food. It is also a close walk to main road of Muri for supplies or food. No sunset at end of day but the views are excellent
