Traditional Polynesian dance. |
The Cook Islands consist of 15 islands scattered over some 2 million square kilometres of the Pacific Ocean. they lie in the centre of the Pacific Triangle, roughly midway between Fiji to the west and Tahiti to the east.
The main island and international gateway is Rarotonga, where 10,000 of the total 18,000 Cook Islanders live. Rarotonga (picture below) is a mountainous island with a palm fringed reef encircling it. There is one main circle road, with a sprinkling of resorts right around its perimeter.
Cook Islanders enjoy a peaceful and stable lifestyle with many essential services sponsored by its former colonial master New Zealand, five hours flying to the southwest.
The Cook Islands has an excellent tourism infrastructure and enjoys a growing reputation amongst those looking for that South Pacific paradise often dreamt about.
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The Vacation Station can help you plan the perfect Cook Islands vacation, either as a stopover enroute to New Zealand, or as a standalone destination. We visit the islands regularly and are kept abreast of all new developments.
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Lodging
The Cook Islands have an excellent range of accommodations, from deluxe beachfront resorts to budget hostels.
We know the pros and cons of each and have contracted rates at our favourite properties.
Apartment rentals are also available for longer stays at very reasonable prices. Sample properties:
Manuia Beach Resort
Rarotonga
A small 4 star hotel close to town and the airport. Great service and pool area. |
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Rarotonga Beach Bungalows
Typical Polynesian thatched bungalows, right on the beach! Rated 3 star.
Perfect for a quiet getaway. |
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Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa
Aitutaki
A 5 star beachfront resort with the Cooks only over water bungalows. |
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| Cruising in the Cook Islands
Due to its isolation there are very few choices, with the best option being Princess Cruises who have regularly scheduled stopovers in the Cook Islands on its Polynesian itineraries.
Small but fun local reef exploration cruises are operated by Captain Tama, based on Muri Beach, Rarotonga. The island of Aitutaki has two local cruise companies offering snorkeling and sightseeing cruises on its gorgeous lagoon. All are highly recommended!
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Car & Scooter Rentals
The Vacation Station can prebook rental cars or scooters with Budget, Avis, or Rarotonga Rentals. It is a good idea to reserve a car in advance as there is a limited supply.
Scooters may also be rented at many of the larger resorts and a few small distributors around the island.
A Cook Islands Drivers License is essential to drive a scooter or car, if only to validate the insurance coverage. It must be obtained from the local police station at a nominal fee. Consider this a tourist tax!
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Scuba
The Cooks offer some wonderful diving and snorkeling, with many dive operators located on both Rarotonga and Aitutaki, my favorite being Cook Island Divers.
Snorkelling opportunites are aslo available with local operators such as Reef to See, Bishops, Teking, Capt. Tama's and South Pacific Sailing Tours.
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Deep Sea Fishing
Deep sea fishing is available directly as you leave the harbour in Avarua! Marlin, wahoo, tuna and mahi-mahi are the main catches. Local operators are Fisher's and Pacific Marine Charters. Contact us for assistance booking your charter or day trip.
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