The Cook Islands are one of the world’s best kept holiday secrets in the Pacific Ocean. They are not only a set of tree-laden islands with stunning white sand beaches to be seen from the top of magnificent dormant volcanoes.
The Cook Islands have their history imbued with a rich infusion of Polynesian and European histories, and are reflected in their lush culture of song and dance, which is so potent that it would make any visitor’s heart sing with joy.
The 15-island self-governing democracy currently holds a free association with New Zealand. With a total of 236km² of land, scattered over two million square kilometres, the coast line stretches a massive 120kms – so there’s plenty of beach-space to go around.

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Most people’s first experience of the Cook Islands is most likely to be that of Rarotonga, the youngest island in the Cook Islands southern group. Situated within the Southern group of islands, it’s also the capital of the Cook Islands.
32km² in circumference, the island has a permanent population of around 9,500 residents and has a unique small town feel. The locals are laid back and friendly, the local bus that goes around the island stops to pick-up and drop-off customers anywhere along the route, even though there are marked bus stop points.
The atmosphere of leisure and relaxation is enhanced by the miles of beachfront, and the lack of people, the mild weather and the peace and quiet. These spots of unspoilt Polynesian gems are the perfect place for a break away from the hustle of the city.
When at the Cook Islands, besides the beach activities, of which there is plenty, visitors must also go on an ‘Island Night’ to check out the local singing and dancing. Visitors are also encouraged to get involved with the dancing, not just watch from the sidelines.
Also while in the Cook Islands, guests should try the Noni Juice, made from the Noni fruit found in the South Pacific, the Cook Islands grows a large quantity of the unique plant. According to traditional healers the fruit is good for treating ailments including arthritis, allergies, infections and ulcers.
With a range of properties from the luxury to the budget, it’s the perfect location for any discerning traveller. With mild weather all year round, why not plan a winter getaway to a place where ‘cold’ is 20-25 degrees Celsius?

Cook Islands Travel News: Travel - News

Muri Beach Club Hotel Rarotonga ... from USD 221 20/01/2008
Exclusive adults only chic & sophisticated hotel in the beautiful & relaxing Cook Islands! INCLUDES breakfast when staying 3 nights or more! Boating an enviable location and comfortable accommodation blended with quality service, this property ...

Hot Hotel Deal of the Day: Club Raro Resort Rarotonga ... from USD 108 30/10/2007
Nestled within the beautiful winding mosaic pathways, swaying palms and tropical gardens, this intimate resort is an ideal place to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. Location Situated on the Northern Coast of Rarotonga, Club Raro Resort is only ...

Aitutaki, escape the rush and clutter of city life 22/10/2007
The breathtaking allure of Aitutakis crystal clear turquoise waters and sparkling white beaches beckons you to visit. Its unsurpassed natural beauty and tranquility, provides a simple tonic to sooth away the pressures of the outside world. Air ...

Air New Zealand adds second weekly service from New Zealand to Los Angeles 16/03/2007
Air New Zealand has announced that from 6, December, 2007 to 26, March, 2008, the carrier will increase its weekly service from Auckland to Rarotonga and onto Los Angeles from one flight to two flights a week. This change has said come in response ...

Pacific Resort Rarotonga

Featuring luxurious accommodation, authentic Polynesian styling, gracious island service and a stunning tropical setting, the Pacific Resort Rarotonga is truly a unique holiday destination. This idyllic property is set on one of the most beautiful and scenic beaches on the island, Muri Lagoon. Beautifully landscaped grounds simply enhance this awesome beachfront setting. The rooms are set amongst lush tropical gardens and offer a comfortable accommodation. Each unit is air-conditioned and comes with a host of modern amenities. Begin your day with a delicious breakfast, served at the resort. Dine right on the beach with sand between your toes at Sandals Restaurant and the Barefoot Bar. Spend your days swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, sailing and kayaking around the islands and its small islets. During leisure, you can take a refreshing dip in the pool, relax at the lounge or explore the nearby attractions.
Click here for more information and Booking Details

Hotels Rarotonga - Last Minute Hotels Rarotonga

Eating Out Cook Islands Style

Rarotonga offers a little of everything; restaurants range from gourmet cuisine to friendly island-style restaurants. The food selection includes superb international cuisine through to the old favorites – Chinese, Italian, Indian and Continental. The overall quality and presentation of food in the Cook Islands is very high, and a variety of international dishes are available. Whatever style of cuisine you find tempting, you’ll be impressed by the friendly, helpful service. The staffs is always willing to meet your every need and are only too happy to explain any dishes you might like to try.
Most restaurants are open for dinner from 6pm – 9.30pm.

Pawpaw Patch
The ambience is simple, classy yet funky with spectacular artworks where guests enjoy good conversation, fine wine and superb food. The restaurant has the European influence of integrating the kitchen into the restaurant so guests are able to watch the chefs at work preparing their meal. The menu has a slant on cosmopolitan food with an Island flavour, Try the restaurants signature dessert, the Pawpaw Brulee. Beers are NZ$5 and top shelf from NZ$7.
BBQ Buffet on Sunday 6pm –9.30pm www.pawpawpatchrestaurant.com

Sails Restaurant
It is located on the white sandy beaches with stunning views of Muri. The indoor and outdoor setting is perfect for casual lunch, evening meal or corporate and wedding and birthday luncheons and dinners. The restaurant is open daily and the daily “Chefs Special’ include inventive dishes using fresh produce and seafood in season. The Sails Classic fishcakes on a bed of curried pawpaw are “yummie”. Try the Tropical Flame cocktail
www.sailsrestaurant.co.ck

Tamarind House Restaurant
Tamarind House is a beautifully restored heritage colonial house originally built in 1910 for the Union Steamship Company. Located about 3 minutes from Avarua township it is set on 2.5 acres of lawns sweeping down to the beach. There is a feeling of nostalgia for a bygone era in the peaceful seclusion of a truly unique tropical setting. Enjoy brunch, coffee, lunch, dinner with fine wines or a cocktail on the verandah overlooking the palm-shaded lawns to the ocean. The curry dishes are very popular and recommend the Tamarind chicken curry in tomato, coriander and coconut sauce with cumin served with steamed rice and chutneys. The baileys with white chocolate cheesecake are divine.

Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa Aitutaki

The Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa rests on its own private island of Aitutaki, encircled by champagne-sand beaches and enjoying commanding views of the expansive, magnificent lagoon. The resort's 37 accommodation units offer a distinctively Polynesian experience with spacious interiors, thatched roofs and tropical style furniture. Some of the accommodation units offer lovely lagoon views for you to enjoy. For a wonderfully romantic experience to treasure, share a sunset cocktail then dine together beside the moonlit lagoon at the Flying Boat Beach Bar & Grill. During leisure, you can take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or rejuvenate your mind and body at the spa. Come to Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa for a truly wonderfully romantic experience to treasure.
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