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Welcome to the Cook Islands, a postcard-perfect country where island living reigns and nothing is built higher than the treetops. Life here revolves around the ocean – a sparkling playground that invites you to explore and unwind. From kayaking across calm lagoons to diving through colourful reefs, prepare to be dazzled by the natural beauty of this tropical paradise. These are the best ways to explore the waters of the Cook Islands.
1. Join a lagoon cruise
Step aboard a vaka (a large traditional Polynesian canoe) or luxurious modern catamaran and set sail across the Cook Islands’ crystal-clear waters. Explore the depths of Muri Lagoon or discover the turquoise waters of Aitutaki Lagoon, regularly ranked among the world’s most beautiful. Wander the porcelain sands of uninhabited motus (islets) and dive into the balmy waters to explore coral gardens teeming with tropical fish. Most lagoon cruises include a local-style fish lunch with traditional sides, snorkelling equipment and cultural demonstrations – from sarong tying to coconut husking.
2. Glide under the waves on a sea scooter safari
Effortlessly explore the underwater world with the help of a sea scooter – a handheld propeller that allows you to glide through the water with ease, no swimming required. Hold onto the handles and set off to discover thriving coral reefs and historic shipwrecks, or swim alongside marine animals like spotted eagle rays and green sea turtles. Sea scooters are ideal for those who prefer a little help in the ocean or avid snorkellers looking to maximise their time underwater.
3. Kayak across crystal-clear lagoons
Enjoy a gentle paddle across the serene waters of the Cook Islands on a kayaking expedition. Whether you’re staying on Rarotonga or Aitutaki, kayaking offers a peaceful way to explore hidden coves and shallow reefs – up close and at your own pace. Most Cook Islands resorts are poised directly on the shores and offer complimentary kayaks, making it easy to start exploring. For beginners, Muri Lagoon offers tranquil, shallow waters while Aitutaki Lagoon promises surreal turquoise views from every angle.
4. Unwind on a pristine, secluded beach
Find your own slice of paradise with a day on one of the nation’s palm-fringed shores. Unwind on the powdery white sands of Titikaveka Beach on Rarotonga, where dazzlingly blue waters invite quiet swims and self-guided snorkelling. Ootu Beach on Aitutaki is renowned for calm, clear waters, perfect for a day spent relaxing under swaying palms. Back on Rarotonga, the secluded shores of Aroa Beach are ideal for a peaceful beach day, with its marine reserve location ensuring excellent snorkelling opportunities and its west-coast position promising mesmerising sunsets.
5. Chase waterfalls in the lush hinterland
While not technically the ocean, the freshwater streams and secluded swimming holes located in the Cook Islands’ lush hinterland are worthy of a mention. In Atiu (one of the more remote islands), spend a day traversing scenic jungle trails to discover limestone caves and freshwater pools hidden deep in the forest. On Rarotonga, the flat terrain and shallow river crossings of the Avana Valley Walk are perfect for family-friendly exploration. For more serious adventure seekers, the aptly named Cross Island Trek winds through jungle-covered terrain from Avatiu Harbour to Wigmore’s Waterfall, where you can enjoy a well-deserved dip post-hike.
6. Set sail on a fishing charter
Spend a morning or afternoon chasing big game fish on a Cook Islands fishing charter. Head offshore to reel in pelagic species like tuna, mahi-mahi and giant trevally. Experienced free divers can also try their hand at spearfishing in the crystal-clear waters. After your charter, the crew may even fillet your catch so you can take it back for dinner – perfect if you’re staying in a self-contained villa or holiday home, though keep in mind that fishing is sometimes catch and release only.
7. Dive beneath the waves
With its balmy waters and exceptional visibility, the Cook Islands is a haven for divers. With over 40 dive sites dotted across the country, teeming with tropical fish and larger marine animals, it’s the perfect location to practice or learn the art of scuba. For a relaxed adventure, glide through the lava tunnels and small caverns of Sunset Lava Tubes, home to lionfish and nudibranchs. More experienced divers can ride the current alongside reef sharks and eagle rays in the Avaavaroa Passage, a narrow channel between Rarotonga’s outer reef and lagoon that features dramatic canyons and swim-through tunnels.
8. Embark on a snorkelling adventure
Swim through the Cook Islands’ calm, clear waters and you will discover a vibrant underwater world filled with colourful coral gardens, curious marine life and dancing anemones. Explore this underwater playground with the guidance of a local on an organised tour or enjoy easy, walk-in snorkelling from the beach. On Rarotonga, visit the Tikioki Marine Reserve, where calm waters play host to squirrel fish, parrot fish, Moorish idols, Emperor angelfish and the occasional turtle. On Aitutaki, the self-guided Aquatic Eco Trail leading from Pacific Resort Aitutaki promises an educational adventure through five marine habitats.
9. Stay in waterfront accommodation
Why just visit the ocean when you can wake up to it? The Cook Islands’ shores are dotted with high-end beachfront resorts, sprawling self-contained villas and luxurious ocean view suites. Soak up the serenity of Rarotonga’s west coast from the palatial four-bedroom private villa at Waterfoot House Cook Islands, complete with beachfront lap pool, private gardens and private chef service, or step from your private terrace onto the golden shores of Aitutaki Beach at Resort Tava’e, where nature’s aquarium awaits just centimetres below the surface.
