I have just returned from Rarotonga and Aitutaki, I am sure I must have really gone to heaven. These remote islands, only accessible from the US one day a week via Air New Zealand are most surely paradise.
We stayed on the south coast of Raro at the Palm Grove, a small property with a friendly and helpful staff. It is located on the best beach on the island for snorkeling and kayaking.
Our day trip to Aitutaki was a "Bucket List" unforgetable trip! Certianly the most beautiful beach in the entire world.
I thought the Cooks were pricey but US standards but have no regrets over the trip.
Kia Orana
To Heaven and Back
Recent Activity
View all Australia & the Pacific activity »
- 1 Melbourne Money Exchange
- 2 Sydney hotel
- 3 Cricket, diving and NZ - how long to fit it all in?
- 4 Australia Tour Operator Help
- 5 3 weeks in NZ self drive
- 6 Hotels in Australia
- 7
Hidden Gems in Melbourne
- 8 Help with 4 weeks on South Island!
- 9 Travel to NZ with a dog
- 10 6 hour wait at sydney for flight to brisbane. Any ideas to pass the time?
- 11 Darwin, Kakadu, Katherine itinerary help
- 12 Australia 18 day trip advice
- 13 Sydney airport to Circular Quay least expensive option
- 14 BEWARE: Avoid Wicked Travel
- 15 Careful before booking any short-term accommodation on NSW Coast
- 16 Micronesia- when to visit
- 17 Seeking hike companion for Stewart Island (southernmost NZ)
- 18 Please Help my New Zealand 10 days trip Itinerary...
- 19 10 Days in NZ South Island - Feedback?
- 20 Help me plan my April - May trip to Australia
- 21 1st trip to New Zealand
- 22 Melbourne--in the summer is air conditioning a must ?
- 23 Hotel suggestions near Brisbane airport?
- 24 Melbourne Airport / Rental Car Question
- 25 South Island of New Zealand end of May?



I love the Cook Islands too - so laid back, lots of beautiful people, fruit, and beaches for snorkelling. We went to Atiu Island to see the birds, and had two wonderful days there. Have to fly 40 minutes in a 10-seater plane, but well-worth it.