Compare hotels in Cook Islands from NZ$224

Sandy white beaches? Check. Dramatic lagoons? Check. Snorkelling opportunities galore? Check! We’re talking about the Cook Islands, and this is one South Pacific hot spot you should check out immediately. What can you do in these far-flung isles? Oh, you know, the usual: relax on the beach, listen to the gentle sound of the waves crashing ashore, and exploring lush rainforests. And that’s just scratching on the surface. Curious? Book accommodation in Cook Islands today and kick off your tropical getaway tomorrow.

Best Things to Do in Cook Islands

All right, you’re here—what’s next? Drop off your bags in your Cook Islands accommodation and dive headfirst in the translucent waters of Aitutaki Lagoon, where you can swim with the fishes…just not the way “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero went overboard on the Stugots II that one time on The Sopranos. If you never learned to swim, rent a kayak to go island-hopping throughout the lagoon. Check out One Foot Island—named after a guy with only one wheel—then head on over to Maina and then, of course, Muri Beach.

When you’re done exploring the small islands of Aiutaki Lagoon, go to Te Vara Nui village to let Polynesian culture play out before your eyes. Don’t sit too close to the fire breathers unless you want to go home two eyebrows short. But if you do lose some eyebrows, at least it’ll happen why you’re stuffing your face with ika mata, a dish made up of raw fish marinated in lime juice and served with a side of coconut cream.

Getting to & Around Cook Islands

Your escape to paradise kicks off when you arrive at Rarotonga International Airport (RAR), a short distance from many of the nearby resorts. Catch a coach transfer that provides meet and greet services so you feel as welcome as you do at grandma’s house. There’s a taxi stand outside the arrivals area that can quickly get you to most of the Cook Islands hotels. On some of the islands, cars aren’t necessary, but on the main island of Rarotonga, look into lastminute.com.au’s super-cool car hire deals so you can explore every inch of this isle.

Best Time to Travel

Have you ever heard of a bad time for Cook Islands holidays? We didn’t think so. Just like other South Pacific nations, the Cook Islands have a rainy season in the summer and a dry season in the summer. Cyclones are common during the rainy season, but you can still sit on the beach and enjoy a cold beer from the local Matutu Brewery Company. If you want the best of both rainy and dry seasons, visit during the spring months, when sunny mornings and drizzly afternoons meet each other peacefully at midday.

Storm the beaches of this perfect getaway destination and go face-down in the sand with a cocktail in your hand. Search through lastminute.com.au’s best options for hotels in Cook Islands, and be sure to bundle one with flights to Cook Islands to save money for all those beers you’re going to drink on the beach. Enjoy your holiday!