Cook Islands

A tiny chain of only 15 islands, the Cook Islands offer the ultimate escape from the civilized world. There are no high rises and only four beach buggies, providing the kind of South Seas seclusion many can only dream about. From walking along idyllic, palm-shaded white sand beaches to snorkeling in the most crystal-clear waters to be found in the world, a visit to the Cooks promises to be as memorable as it is relaxing. Boasting precipitous peaks and lush valleys, Rarotonga is an iconic South Pacific island that is much less traveled than most. Rented motor scooters take travelers past snow white beaches and inland paw-paw fields, and there is ample time to learn about the native Maori culture and shop for souvenirs such as wooden carvings of the fisherman god ‘Tangaroa’.

Sometimes referred to as the ‘Bora Bora of the Cook Islands’, Aitutaki offers the chance to step back in time to authentic old Polynesia. Coconut, banana and pineapple plantations dot the island, and multi-hued Aitutaki Lagoon boasts some of the most vivid colors in the Pacific amidst its reef. Fishing, diving, snorkeling and windsurfing are among the most popular activities here, and the lagoon is the perfect place for any of these endeavors when not lazing in a shady hammock.

Locations

Aitutaki

With its multihued lagoon and rolling plains, it is easy to see why Aitutaki is called the 'Bora Bora of the Cook Islands.' Although eerily similar to Bora Bora in appearance, Aitutaki has a personality all of its own. Reminders of old Polynesia hide around every corner. Most of the island's 2,100 residents work the coconut, pineapple, and banana plantations dotting the island, and can be found fishing one of the South Pacific's most beautiful lagoons on the weekends. That is not to say that Aitutaki doesn't have its fair share of modern day pleasures, a stroll through Arutanga village will assure you of this, but shopping will be the last thing on your mind when you have an entire beach to yourself and can doze off listening to the wind tousle the trees.

Rarotonga

Rarotonga is a lush, beautiful place, fringed with beaches and crowned with mountains at its center. There are 2 concentric roads that ring the island, and most of Rarotonga's attractions are on or near one of them. Situated on the western coast, Arorangi was the first mission-built village on the island.

Boasting precipitous peaks and steep valleys similar to those of Tahiti, the capital island Rarotonga offers you a slice of heaven without the hype. Hire a motor scooter and buzz past snow white beaches on the Ara Tapu road or weave your way through fields of paw paw on the older inland road. Shop for popular souvenirs like wooden carvings of the well-endowed fisherman.