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Meet Joni, one of our travel experts for The Cook Islands.

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! "

- Megan & Pete

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

When's the best time to go to the Cook Islands? Shown is the east coast of Rarotonga

Rarotonga beach, photo courtesy Nick Paulsen and Cook Islands Tourism Corporation.

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 Beachcomber

Muri 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 Beachcomber

PRICE 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 Beachcomber

Muri Beachcomber 5 nights from 727 per person

Learn more about Muri Beachcomber

PRICE 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, Cook Islands

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 Grove

Palm 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.

Learn more about Palm Grove

PRICE INCLUDES:
Accommodation as indicated
Round trip airport transfers
Breakfast daily

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

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 Aitutaki

Pacific 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 Aitutaki

PRICE 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.