Need expert help?
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Meet Joni, one of our travel experts for The Cook Islands.
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Born in the Southwest, raised in the Northwest, I have called the South Pacific home for over 30 years. I founded J2 Travels in the late 1990s to share our knowledge with other like minded travelers – remembering always, that the joy is in the journey. I currently live on Maui, I'm endorsed by IATA, and am a member of the Fiji, Tahiti and New Zealand Tourism Boards.
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"I want to say a big THANK YOU!! We had the most amazing time on our trip. Everything was wonderful. We absolutely loved Queenstown. We took the bus out to Milford Sound and then took a helicopter back as you suggested. It was raining the whole way out there but then the rain disappeared so we saw so many waterfalls it was breathtaking! We also went horseback riding in Glenorchy (well, I did – Pete got sick!) and that was amazing. The drive out there was beautiful and the ride itself was really fun. We tried to go skydiving but unfortunately it cancelled twice because of the winds. We also went jetboating,and spent a lot of time in the restaurants and bars in town. We then spent a few hours in Nelson and went out to Bleinhem for a day and did some wine-tasting, which was a lot of fun. When we were in Motueka we spent sometime relaxing and then did an 8 hour kayak/hike through Abel Tasman, which was truly amazing…and tiring! We spent a lot of our time in Rotorua just hanging out at the hotel and relaxing because it was just so beautiful, but we did go to hell’s gate which was really neat. In Auckland we spent a day walking around and then played golf one day. We also went to dinner at the Mudbrick restaurant in Waiheke which was great.
And on to Fiji...it was amazing! We loved Tokoriki. It was a beautiful spot and the Fijian people that worked there were so warm and friendly. The honeymoon bure that we stayed in was absolutely amazing, and we spent a lot of time just hanging out in our plunge pool. We also went snorkeling a few times, which was great. The food was also really good. As for the seaweed, there was definitely a fair bit of seaweed around and a slight smell of it, but it really wasn’t a big problem. After the first day we didn’t even think about it. I would definitely recommend Tokoriki to others, and would love to go back someday.
Thank you again for all of your help. We will definitely let our friends and family know how great you were when they head off to NZ / Fiji!
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- Megan & Pete
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"We had a fantastic time in Fiji. Qamea was particularly wonderful-rustic, authentic, beautiful, and communal. Staff members were incredibly friendly and always very accommodating. Namale was spectacular and definitely more upscale. Our bure was so elegant and we had a private deck overlooking the ocean that was phenomenal. We appreciated the remoteness and feel of Qamea over Namale, however, so we were delighted to have been there longer. I would certainly recommend Qamea to anyone traveling to that area of the world.
Thanks again for arranging this remarkable trip. It was incredibly unique and one we will remember always. We're both grateful to you.
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- Naomi & Matt
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"The Four Seasons Maui and your recommendations for the other island resorts we visited were wonderful. The Four Seasons Maui is impeccable, as we also enjoyed the Halekulani on Oahu and the Hyatt at Poipu on Kauai.
Thank you so much for your attention to detail, your availability every step of the way planning our honeymoon and assisting our guests. Your surprise gifts to us and our guests were extra special touches, and I can't rave enough about you. Even through the most stressful times I endured, you always kept your calm and made sure we were taken care of. You went above and beyond for us, going to the Four Seasons to take pictures of the construction before we got there for the wedding so we would be prepared, calling around to local stores to help me find items for gift baskets, giving us the scoop on where to shop, eat, etc.-all in such great detail as well!
You really are a true, experienced travel agent that doesn't just book trips, but travels to and knows the areas and resorts in which you book your clients and you become a trusted friend. It is with the utmost gratitude we write this in appreciation for everything you did to help make our honeymoon dreams come true for us and our guests.
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- Michelle & Scott
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"We are now home and slowly acclimating to reality. We had the most fabulous time on our holiday and want to thank you for seeing to it that every little detail was well planned, organized, and executed. We feel you really listened to our desires and planned "THE PERFECT" holiday...thank you so very much. We will definitely call you again and have recommended you to several of our friends. It is obvious that you really know both New Zealand and Fiji as I'm sure you know the other locations you book for your clients, I especially liked how you found locations that were less "touristy" and more reflective of the countries we were visiting...just as I requested. Thank you!"
- Randy and Teresa
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"Kurstan and I had the most amazing time on our trip to Maui. The wedding went off without a hitch, even though when we arrived at the house that we rented for the occasion there were hurricane strength winds. They died down in just enough time to get the flower circle in a perfect place overlooking the ocean and everything went according to plan. The ceremony was thoughtful and such a happy time for us as well as Kurstan's mom and Jack who seemed pleased with the arrangements as well.
As for the honeymoon, that was a vacation of a lifetime. I have never been as happy as I was on this trip. The hotel was lovely and the service was fantastic. Our room was more spacious than I imagined and the view was breathtaking. The hotel itself was beautiful from the lounges to the restaurants to the pool area to the beach. The beach was the best that we saw on the island.
Also, Joni, you were so helpful in getting everything arranged with us and Kurstan's mom. It was difficult for us not having ever been to Maui figuring out where to stay and what to do, but you were more than helpful in making this a trip that will be remembered throughout our lives. What a way to start a marriage!
And, thank you for the champagne you sent to our room upon our arrival. It was such a great way to start our trip.
Thank you so much for everything, and we'll definitely contact you for any help we need with travel in the future.
"
- Heather & Kurstan
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"Lisa and I had a magical experience at Qamea and everything was wonderful! You prepared us perfectly and all the details were worry free. We had a beautiful sunny day outdoor wedding in Michigan and then whisked away to paradise.
Thank you does not fully communicate our appreciation and we will be sending you referrals at every opportunity. We will be in touch soon and again, sincere thanks and warm regards!
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- Scott & Lisa
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"Hey Joni! Thanks so much for checking in. We had an awesome time! Best vacation ever!! Would love to talk with you about everything, let me know when is good for you? We really want to go back, maybe in a few years.
"
- Traci
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Best Time of Year to Visit the Cook Islands
Explore > Travel Planning Articles > Best Time of Year to Visit the Cook Islands
Date published:
2023-9-24
Rarotonga beach, photo courtesy Nick Paulsen and Cook Islands Tourism Corporation.
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Overview of the Cook Islands
The Cook Islands are a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand. They were originally discovered and settled by Polynesian voyagers in the late 1300s to early 1400s.
The islands were named after British navigator Captain James Cook who visited the islands in the late 1700s. In 1901, the Cook Islands became a British protectorate.
The Cook Islands are a group of 15 islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Tonga, west of Tahiti, and northeast of New Zealand, near the international date line.
The two main islands are Rarotonga (where the international airport is) and Aitutaki. Rarontonga feels a bit like one big resort, ringed by boutique hotels, resorts, homestays, restaurants, gift shops, galleries, cafes, beach bars and convenience stores.
The islands remain undiscovered by most Americans, unlike Fiji or Tahiti. It's the same time zone as Hawaii, and with the new non-stop flights from Honolulu on Hawaiian Airlines,
they're more accessible than ever. Currency used is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Tipping is not customary in the Cooks.
Mountains of Rarotonga, photo copyright Alexandra Adoncello.
TRAVEL SPECIAL: Muri BeachcomberMuri Beachcomber 5 nights from 727 per person  Kia Orana & Welcome to Muri Beachcomber - In these uncertain times please email us on muri@beachcomber.co.ck for our best rates but also SUPER flexible booking conditions. Nestled in lush tropical gardens in the middle of Muri Beach, lies the popular Muri Beachcomber. Guests can enjoy the quiet, peaceful atmosphere and still be close to Night Markets, Cafes & Shops. Learn more about Muri BeachcomberPRICE INCLUDES: Accommodation as indicated Round trip airport transfers Breakfast daily Use of Reef shoes, kayaks, bicycles, paddle boards & snorkelling gear
Weather in the Cook Islands
The Cook Islands have a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year.
There are two main seasons: the wet season from November to April, and the dry season from May to October.
During the wet season, you can get tropical storms and heavy rainfall, while during the dry season you'll mostly have clear skies and light sea breezes.
Trade winds provide a pleasant cooling breeze, making the weather in the Cooks generally very pleasant year-round.
Island night cultural show, photo courtesy Cook Islands Pocket Guide.
Things to see and do on Rarotonga
Rarotonga is the largest and most populous island of the Cook Islands and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
It's also the only island with the international airport, so when you fly to the Cooks, you're going to start here.
Some of the best things to see and do on Rarotonga include:
- Visit the beaches: it's surrounded by stunning beaches, with clear turquoise waters and lush tropical vegetation.
Some of the most popular beaches include Muri Beach, Aroa Beach and Avana Beach.
- Take a scenic drive: rent a scooter or car and take a drive around the island to discover its stunning natural beauty.
- Visit the cultural village of Punanga Nui: this open-air market is a must-visit for anyone interested in local culture and arts.
- Snorkel or scuba dive: the waters around the island are teeming with marine life, and there are several great snorkeling and diving spots around the island.
- Explore the interior: the middle of the island is a lush tropical jungle with a range of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island and its surroundings.
- Visit the Rarotonga Cook Islands Christian Church: this historic church is one of the largest structures on the island and is an important part of local culture.
- Experience a traditional dance performance: the island is home to several cultural centers that offer traditional dance performances and other cultural activities.
Rarotonga virtual tours, courtesy Cook Islands Tourism Corporation.
TRAVEL SPECIAL: Muri BeachcomberMuri Beachcomber 5 nights from 727 per person  Kia Orana & Welcome to Muri Beachcomber - In these uncertain times please email us on muri@beachcomber.co.ck for our best rates but also SUPER flexible booking conditions. Nestled in lush tropical gardens in the middle of Muri Beach, lies the popular Muri Beachcomber. Guests can enjoy the quiet, peaceful atmosphere and still be close to Night Markets, Cafes & Shops. Learn more about Muri BeachcomberPRICE INCLUDES: Accommodation as indicated Round trip airport transfers Breakfast daily Use of Reef shoes, kayaks, bicycles, paddle boards & snorkelling gear
Aerial view of Aitutaki and lagoon, photo courtesy Cook Islands Tourism.
Things to see and do on Aitutaki
Aitutaki is a small atoll, located about 160 miles north of Rarotonga. It's got an airport, and the flight there takes about an hour.
Some of the best things to see and do on Aitutaki include:
- Explore the Lagoon: the turquoise waters of Aitutaki Lagoon are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding coral reef and small islets.
- Visit One Foot Island: this tiny island is located at the southern end of the Lagoon and is accessible by boat. Enjoy a picnic, relax on the beach or take a snorkeling excursion.
- Tour the main island: it's home to several traditional villages, ancient Polynesian ruins, and coconut plantations, which can be explored on a scenic drive or guided tour.
- Experience local cuisine: Aitutaki is known for its delicious seafood and tropical fruit, which can be enjoyed at one of the island's dozen+ restaurants or local markets.
- Explore the lagoon by boat: you can take a guided boat tour of the Lagoon, which provides an opportunity to see the stunning coral formations and marine life up close.
Aitutaki virtual tours, courtesy Cook Islands Tourism Corporation.
TRAVEL SPECIAL: Palm GrovePalm Grove 5 nights from 1,324 per person  Set in the enchanting village of Vaimaanga on the stunning Southern coast, Palm Grove enjoys the peace and tranquillity of one of the best locations on Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. Small and friendly Palm Grove offers 22 self-contained bungalows scattered over five acres of landscaped beachfront and garden property. An onsite restaurant and bar, freshwater swimming pool, reception/tour desk, and daily housekeeping service are just some of the convenient amenities we offer.
Overwater bungalows at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort, photo courtesy Cook Islands Pocket Guide.
TRAVEL SPECIAL: Crown Beach Resort & Spa 5 nights from 1,590 per person
Beachfront villa | welcome beverage | daily breakfast | happy hour drink specials | Island Discovery excursion | airport transfers
To compare all resorts in the Cook Islands, click here.
Typical airfares from LAX to Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Airfares vary by season, but also day of week, and are definitely affected by holidays.
The chart above shows the typical average fares for a economy class ticket from Los Angeles (LAX) to Rarotonga International Airport (RAR), by month.
Aitutaki lagoon, photo courtesy Island Love Photography & Alisha Street.
Culture
The culture of the Cook Islands is distinct from that of Fiji and Tahiti, although it shares similarities with both. The Cook Islands are part of the Polynesian cultural sphere, and the local culture is deeply rooted in Polynesian traditions, beliefs, and values.
In comparison to Fiji, the Cook Islands have a more traditional and rural feel. The island culture is more focused on family and community, and the pace of life is generally slower. The Cook Islands also have a strong Christian influence, with many local customs and practices reflecting this influence.
In comparison to Tahiti, the Cook Islands have a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. The island culture is less commercial and more focused on preserving local traditions and customs. The Cook Islands also have a smaller tourist industry compared to Tahiti, which has helped to maintain the authenticity of the local culture.
Picnic platter, photo courtesy Cook Islands Pocket Guide.
Cuisine in the Cooks
The cuisine of the Cook Islands is a blend of Polynesian, European, and New Zealand influences. Local ingredients include fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and locally grown vegetables.
Popular dishes in the Cook Islands include:
- Ika Mata: a raw fish dish made from cubed fish marinated in coconut cream and lime juice, served with vegetables and breadfruit.
- Rukau: a traditional dish made from taro leaves, cooked in coconut cream and served with meat or seafood.
- Taro: a staple root vegetable that is often boiled, baked or mashed, and served as a side dish with meat or fish.
- Poke: a dish made from diced raw fish mixed with coconut cream, onions, and spices.
- Fresh seafood including tuna, mahi-mahi, and marlin is widely available and often grilled or baked with a variety of herbs and spices.
- Tropical fruit such as papaya, mango, and passionfruit are often served for breakfast or as a dessert.
TRAVEL SPECIAL: Pacific Resort AitutakiPacific Resort Aitutaki 5 nights from 2,205 per person  Like a siren of the Pacific, Aitutaki seduces you. Situated on a triangle-shaped atoll rising four thousand metres from the floor of the Pacific Ocean, Pacific Resort Aitutaki is the "World's Leading Boutique Island Resort" (World Travel Awards 2008, 2009 & 2010), "Australasia's Leading Boutique Resort" (World Travel Awards 2007, 2008 & 2009) and a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection. Learn more about Pacific Resort AitutakiPRICE INCLUDES: Accommodation as indicated Round trip airport transfers Breakfast daily Fresh coconut Nu upon arrival Use of kayaks, bicycles, snorkelling gear, beach towels & sun loungers
Scuba diving in the Cook Islands, photo courtesy Charlotte Piho.
Water temperature and SCUBA diving in the Cook Islands
You can dive year-round in Vietnam, but the primary diving season is March through October for the southwest coast (before the monsoon season), or November through March for Phu Quoc Island and the Con Dao archipelago.
Water temperature is typically around 82F.
It's a relatively new destination
for divers, but it's growing in popularity with both new and seasoned divers. Undersea life you might
see includes black frogfish, sting rays, eagle rays, manta rays, bamboo sharks, barracuda, and dugongs.
For a list of the top dive sites in the Cook Islands, check out PADI's page.
How we work with you to plan the perfect trip:
- We'll talk with you to find out what you're looking for, what you like/don't like, etc.
- We'll use our first-hand knowledge of the destination to pick out a handful of resorts we think you'd like
- We'll create a custom mini website for you, with photos, videos, maps, etc. of the resorts we are recommending
- We'll follow up with you to help you make your decision
- We'll go to work with our suppliers to get you the best deal available on what you've decided on.
Map of our favorite resorts in the Cook Islands
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About the author, Michael Cottam
Founder of Visual Itineraries, Michael lives in Bend, Oregon. He's an avid traveler, scuba diver, photographer, and a private pilot,
and also the founder of Bright Yonder.
He's been a Rotarian for 20 years, currently on the board of the Greater Bend Rotary Club.
Follow Michael on LinkedIn,
Pinterest
and Twitter.
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