5 Days In Aitutaki - The Ultimate Cook Island Itinerary
Stunning waters of Aitutaki Lagoon from above. Hotel shown is Pacific Resort Aitutaki - Photo Credit - David Kirkland Photography
Described as the most beautiful island in the world, the island of Aitutaki is a haven of white sand beaches, azure lagoons, and stunning coral reefs. If you're looking for a place to truly relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this is it.
Aitutaki is a tranquil, palm-lined atoll in the Cook Islands. Located in the Pacific Ocean about 2,000 miles southeast of Auckland, New Zealand.
The Cook Islands, in the South Pacific, is a bucket list destination for divers, but there’s more to this paradise than underwater. Spend your days relaxing on the beach, bike your way around the island through swaying palms, or learn to kiteboard. It may be a water sports enthusiast's dream destination, but there's also plenty of Polynesian history and culture to see.
Read our travel guide on the best things to do in Aitutaki to start planning your ultimate vacation.
Getting to Aitutaki
To get to Aitutaki you’ll need to fly from the domestic airport in Rarotonga. The domestic airport is attached to the international airport. If you've landed at Rarotonga International Airport you'll simply walk around the corner to the domestic terminal and check-in for your flight.
Aitutaki is about 50 minutes by air from Rarotonga. There's no shortage of flights between Rarotonga and Aitutaki with over 100 a week. You'll easily be able to find a time that lines up with your international connection unless you arrive on a red-eye flight. There are also regular one-day tours from Rarotonga if you have time constraints.
Flying to Aitutaki from Rarotonga is one of the most breathtaking experiences you can have in the Cook Islands. Aitutaki is an island paradise. Flying in will give you a birds-eye view of its turquoise lagoon, uninhabited islets, and lush green vegetation. It's an experience you won't forget, you can see a quick video of the view here.
Arriving in Aitutaki is a bit like taking a step back in time. The airport is small and quaint. It’s an open wooden hall with historical war memorabilia dotted around the walls. Landing feels like something out of a postcard. As you walk off the tarmac into the hot sticky tropical air and into the airport you'll be greeted with a floral lei and Polynesian music.
What To Pack - Womens
Sundress - Shona Joy capucine lace front mini dress
Bucket Hat - Loewe+ Paula's Ibiza leather-trimmed
Sunglasses - Cat-eye acetate sunglasses in ivory
Slides - Saint Laurent tribute flat sandals
What To Pack - Mens
Casual shirt - Wako Maria + Tim Lehi - printed woven shirt
Light shorts - I Love Ugly linen Michael short in bone
Sunglasses - Bottega Veneta aviator sunglasses in gold
Slides - Bottega Veneta slides in off white
Where To Stay in Aitutaki
The island’s accommodation options range from minimalist bungalows to lavish resorts. Private villas are dotted around the island providing the perfect place to escape. They ooze a sense of barefoot luxury.
When planning your trip be aware that the island is sparsely populated, and resorts in the Cook Islands can book out quickly.
There's nowhere quite like the Pacific Resort Aitutaki when it comes to finding a luxurious escape in the South Pacific. This idyllic resort is set on the edge of Aitutaki lagoon. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and sweeping white sand beaches. The infinity pool faces the sunset, and there's no better place to enjoy a cocktail or two as you watch the day come to an end. The resort's restaurant is widely considered to be the best on the island, serving up fresh seafood and locally-sourced ingredients. If you're looking for a truly special getaway, the Pacific Resort Aitutaki is a perfect choice.
You can book your stay at Pacific Resort Aitutaki here.
Pacific Aitutaki Resort - Premium Beachfront Bungalow
Pacific Aitutaki Resort Pool, with Rapae Bay restaurant above - Photo By David Kirkland Photography
What To Do in Aitutaki On Your Vacation
One foot Island, Aitutaki lagoon
A Day Trip to Paradisical One Foot Island
As you stand on the sandy shores of One Foot Island, you can't help but be mesmerized by the sparkling blue waters that surround you. It's as if you've been transported to another world entirely. One where the only thing that matters is the gentle sound of the waves crashing against the shore.
For a moment, you forget all your troubles and simply soak in the peacefulness of this place. The sun is shining and the breeze is blowing; it's the perfect day to just relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
As you take in the stunning scenery, you can't help but feel grateful for this moment of peace. In this hectic world, moments like these remind us to relax a little and appreciate where we are.
Why go to One-Foot Island?
This is easily the number one thing to do in Aitutaki. It's a slice of paradise. I would put this little island up there with one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. Just being there and seeing the natural beauty for yourself is worth the boat ride.
What is the best way to experience One-Foot Island?
Hire a private boat cruise for the day and take a picnic lunch. Several tour operators cruise daily to One Foot Island, and other small motu's within Aitutaki Lagoon. We recommend taking the private lagoon cruise with Black Pearl charters.
Crystal clear water of Aitutaki Lagoon, with Pacific Aitutaki bungalows seen from above. Photo by David Kirkland Photography
Swim With Giant Trevally On A Snorkel Trip
Aitutaki is one of the most beautiful places in the world to go snorkeling. The visibility is unbelievably clear. It's an amazing experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime. The best time to go snorkeling in Aitutaki is between May and October when the water is at its clearest.
The Aitutaki lagoon is renowned for its abundant sea life. When we went underwater we were not disappointed. The colors of the coral and the variety of tropical fish were breathtaking, it was clear that the ocean here is very well-preserved. We saw large Humphead wrasse, turtles, and stingrays everywhere we looked, it was an incredible experience.
The highlight of the day was seeing giant clams and swimming with the giant trevally. I'm fortunate enough to have traveled the world to snorkel and free dive in beautiful locations. Seeing the giant tropical clams was one of my top snorkeling experiences.
Taking a snorkeling tour will also let you see the lagoon, and motu's dotted around Aitutaki's reef. It's a must-go full-day trip.
Why go on a snorkeling trip?
Aitutaki lagoon is one of the most picturesque places on earth, and there is no better way to see it than from the water. Snorkeling tours give you the chance to see the vibrant coral and fish up close. There is nothing quite like swimming in the clear blue water. It's the perfect way to relax and take in the serenity of this idyllic island.
What is the best way to experience a snorkeling trip?
You can combine your One Foot Island outing with a snorkeling trip. Getting to One Foot Island takes you all the way out to the edge of Aitutaki Lagoon. Stopping on the way there and the way back to snorkel helps to break up the long boat drive. It also allows you to visit some spectacular underwater sites that might be hard to reach otherwise.
We recommend going with Black Pearl Charters that we recommend for the One Foot Island day trip and covering both of these experiences in one day.
Sunset over the Lagoon at Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Explore The Interior Island Jungle and Climb Mount Maungapu
Aitutaki's inner island is home to Mount Maungapu, the highest point in the Cook Islands. Climb to the top of this lush, green mountain for breathtaking views of the lagoon below.
Walking up Mount Maungapu is an easy-to-do excursion that won't take too much effort. The road you’ll need to walk up is opposite Paradise Cove Resort. It’s clearly signposted and only takes about 10-15 minutes. The views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking, and it's the perfect place to watch the sunset over the water.
Best of all, this activity is free and doesn't need to be booked. Take your time and head up on a day with clear skies so you can make the most of the sunset.
Why go to Mount Maungapu?
Seeing the island from this viewpoint will give you a sense of scale, particularly the lagoon. You’ll also see how sparsely populated Aitutaki is. The views are spectacular and it's a cheap, no-fuss outing.
What is the best way to experience Mount Maungapu?
Pack yourself a picnic and a bottle of wine, and head up at 6 pm to slowly watch the sunset over a picnic dinner and a vino. The sun usually sets around 6:30 pm, depending on the season.
Kiteboarding in Aitutaki Lagoon
Kiteboarding Over a Blue Lagoon Between Motus
Aitutaki is considered one of the best locations in the world for kiteboarding, and it's easy to see why. The expansive lagoon provides protection from the weather. The warm flat water, consistent wind, and clear blue skies create spectacular conditions for kiteboarding.
The stunning views of the lagoon and the nearby Honeymoon Island make kiteboarding here a truly unforgettable experience.
If you are new to Kiteboarding you can learn at one of the kiteboarding schools on the island. South Pacific Kiteboarding Schools provides international certification from IKO. They can have you qualified to board safely within 3 days.
Why go kiteboarding in Aitutaki?
If kiteboarding is on your bucket list, this is the ultimate location for it. Optimal conditions make it much easier for beginners to learn, and the kiteboarding schools here are highly rated.
What is the best way to experience kiteboarding in Aitutaki?
Book a tour or training with South Pacific kiteboarding, a 5-star reviewed school that has a great reputation on the island. South Pacific kiteboarding has knowledgeable instructors and a strong focus on safety.
Soak Up The Local Cook Islands Culture, and Spend An Evening Under The Stars During An Island Night Bbq.
During the evening you'll be treated to a traditional island night complete with a delicious feast, local music, and island dancing. It's a vibrant and festive experience.
Every Sunday night Tamanu beach host a sunset island bbq. It’s a stunning spot to watch the sunset, cocktail in hand. The night includes the show, drinks, and a buffet of local delicacies using seasonal produce. For dinner, you can enjoy a variety of grilled fish, barbecued lamb, and beef. The perfect way to relax and enjoy the last of the weekend.
Why do to an Island Night in Aitutaki?
To learn about the Cook Island culture. You'll see traditional dances by local villagers, try some of the best dishes in Aitutaki and hear about Cook Island’s history.
What is the best way to experience an Island Night BBQ?
Take in the culture! The dancers from the local villages will invite you during the evening to come up and learn traditional island dance moves. We recommend getting up and giving it your best. Make sure to fill your plate with local delicacies like Ika Mata, a raw fish and coconut dish.
Want To Plan Your Escape To Aitutaki?
We hope this article inspires you to see the remote island of Aitutaki. Staying in Aitutaki feels like being transported to a simpler time, a time when things moved at a slower pace.
The tropical scenery is breathtaking, and the water is blissfully warm. The locals are incredibly friendly, so friendly that you'll know all about your taxi driver's life history by the time you end your trip.
You can spend days out on the water, or you can spend your days lazing away, enjoying the feeling of doing nothing at all.
A few quick tips for planning your trip:Make sure to book yourself a window seat for your flights in and out of Aituktai, the views are breathtaking.
There are limited shops on the island, grab some supplies in Rarotonga before flying over (wine, snacks, bug spray).
It’s a small place, things book out very quickly, particularly over New Zealand school holiday periods. Try to book your accommodation and activities in advance.
Taxi’s on the island are limited, but renting a bike is a fun way to see the island and get around.
If you have any questions about where to stay, activities, or accommodation we'd love to help you. Leave us a comment below and we'll answer any questions you have. Kia Orana!
Want more holiday inspiration?
Read our article, 10 luxury islands like Bora Bora that you should visit in 2023
The Edit | The Best Resorts in The Cook Islands
Whether your looking for a romantic stay in Aitutaki, or a family friendly beachfront hotel in Rarotonga, we’ve hunted down all the best resorts in the Cook Islands for your next vaction.