Holiday houses & accommodation in the Cook Islands

Myths and legends of the Cook Islands

Beach idyll as the Cook Islands may be, there's plenty to enthral culture and history buffs here as well. The Polynesian heritage of the islands is blended with European elements to shape a truly unique culture. From Rarotonga's interactive village tours and traditional dances to insights into the native Maori culture, human life on the island is as rich as the rainforests. You'll learn about local carving, fishing, tattooing and medicine, and listen to stories of local legends.

Fun on the Cook Islands for families

The Maina (Little Girl) inlet is appropriately one of the Cook Islands' most family-friendly spots. Shallow and filled with marine life, the Aitutaki lagoon is ideal for snorkelling. It also happens to be the home of the tavake, a red-tailed indigenous bird that will captivate your little ones. Not far away, you'll be fascinated once again by the wreck of the sunken cargo ship Alexander, which sank here in the thirties. Look out for the ruins of an old jetty that once served international trade ships.

Come to the white sand inlets of Muri for unparalleled paddleboarding and kite surfing. The lagoon's shops, Captain Tama's and Koka's Lagoon Cruises, supply equipment for all kinds of water sports. The glistening beaches are also backed by plenty of beachside restaurants serving delicious dishes, so you can stay and play all day. Marine life teems near the reef and in the picturesque inlets that fringe the lagoon.

Discover the Cook Islands' hidden corners

Explore the Cook Island's verdant interior by hiking the trail that runs north to south. The four-hour walk takes you through some of the most scenic and sun-dappled spots on the island, which are twittering with wildlife. On the way, you'll see the jutting pinnacle of Te Rua Manga, which rises to an impressive 413 metres. Trace the Avatiu Stream and follow the signs and boulders toward the rocky outcrop before descending towards the Papua Stream and emerging at Wigmore's Waterfall. Finally, kick back after your exertions in the lagoon.

Tropical fish swirl in shoals through Tekopua, a deepwater channel that diving enthusiasts will love to explore. Alternatively, discover the immense natural beauty of the island of Atiu. A fertile belt of emerald forest hugs the island's five major villages, while an outer ring of reef hems this little paradise into its own unique ecosystem. Limestone caves intersperse the landscape, bustling with flora, fauna and ancient marine fossils.

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