Aitutaki

Make a getaway to the island of Aitutaki. This remote islet is one of the most popular of the tropical Cook Islands. Wade, snorkel or scuba dive in the clean, clear water, discover Polynesian culture and heritage and marvel at the magnificent natural landscape.

Also known as Araura, Aitutaki is a triangular-shaped atoll, rising 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) from the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. Explore the entire island in just a few hours or live like a Cook Islander and stay longer to truly appreciate the tranquil lifestyle.

Aitutaki’s beautiful waters, long sandy beaches and dense jungle are breathtaking. Scuba dive or snorkel in the stunning Aitutaki Lagoon to see live coral formations, a giant clam reserve and diverse reef systems with hundreds of tropical fish species.

Join a deep sea or spear fishing tour and catch yellowfin tuna, barracuda or mahi mahi. Have your passport stamped at the post office on nearby One Foot Island or stay in a lavish bungalow on Akitua Island.

The popular Saturday market at Arutanga Wharf is a great place to meet locals, buy fresh tropical fruit and vegetables and pick up hand-made crafts such as pandanus hats, sarongs and mats. Learn of the influence of the Christian missionaries in the Cook Islands Christian Church in the main village of Arutanga, play a round on the pristine Aitutaki Golf Course or enjoy the 360-degree views of the island from the highest point of the island at Maunga Pu.

The Cook Islanders are renowned for their dancing. The village of Vaipae is considered the Hollywood of the South Pacific. Watch a thrilling cultural performance of drumming, dancing and fire dancing.

The island is a 45-minute flight north of Rarotonga. Enjoy a short daytrip or spend several days soaking up the atmosphere. Aitutaki has no local buses, but many accommodations offer airport transfers or will help arrange a taxi. Get around by rental car, scooter or bicycle.

Visit Aitutaki for its idyllic, unspoiled and serene ambiance.