Top 10 things to do for the Active Relaxer in the Cook Islands.
Island time and relaxation go hand in hand
“Rest & Relaxation” is one of the top reasons people come to the Cook Islands. To start, Rarotonga offers a serene atmosphere from the moment you arrive. A pristine lagoon that surrounds and illuminates each island is magical to witness. The Cook Island people certainly have a knack for helping you completely unwind, it’s a way of life here. “Island time” is proudly said to visitors to remind them to go with the flow and take their time and slow down.
The Cook Islands is bursting with leisurely activities on both water and land. With endless ways to help you forget about any stresses that you might have left back home.
This is your time! Enjoy it with these 10 tips to relax in the Cook Islands:
1. Indulge in a Luxurious Spa Treatment
From traditional Polynesian methods using natural Cook Islands products, and international massage techniques. There is a wide range of spa and massage services across our luxurious resorts at Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa and Pacific Resort Aitutaki’s Tiare spa.
2. Watching the Sunset with a Cocktail in Hand
Ending your day on the perfect note by basking in the glow of a tropical sunset. Walking along the beach with your favourite cocktail in hand, at some of the best evening spots including Little Polynesian and Pacific Resort Aitutaki.
3. Experience a Private Lagoon Tour in Aitutaki
No trip to Aitutaki is complete without a day spent on the lagoon. Hear local legends share stories and learn about the tropical marine life the lagoon inhabits on a guided tour of Aitutaki. Private tour operators include Sailing Aitutaki and Kutekute Tours. It you prefer to spend your day socialising with other travellers, we recommend the Vaka Cruise.
4. Discover the Sulphur Pools of Vai Marere in Mitiaro
Go off the beaten track is the island of Mitiaro, just 1.5 hours from Rarotonga. The only sulphur pool in the Cook Islands, Vai Marere is known among the locals of Mitiaro for its healing minerals.
5. Enjoy the Spiritual Experience of a Cook Islands’ Church Service
Whether you’re religious or not. There’s no denying that the melodic harmonies reverberating through the islands’ churches on a Sunday are a relaxing and a truly memorable experience.
6. Stay at an Adults-Only Resort
Adults-only resorts are designed with relaxation and romance in mind, usually complete with spas, swimming pools, beachside lounging areas and activities to help you chill. Little Polynesian welcomes guests 18 years and over, Pacific Resort Aitutaki accommodates those 12 years and over.
7. Explore the Blue Lagoon and Witness the Marine Life
Snorkelling and floating on the water’s surface, watching the life of colourful fish and shapely coral in their natural environment. Getting in the water also provides refreshment between relaxing in the warm Cook Islands sun. Offering yet another way to relax and cool off in the Cook Islands!
8. Absorb the Unspoiled Natural Wonders of the Cook Islands
Lush green vegetation everywhere! With breath-taking jungle-clad mountains of the interior cascading to the sea. The Cook Islands are rich in natural flora and fauna. You may even spot fruit bats in the mountains, friendly mokos (lizards), crabs, and a variety of local birds. Step back in time to find a paradise refreshingly undeveloped.
9. Dining Under the Stars
Experience the perfect blend of romance, sea and evening moonlight, ensuring the perfect place to finish the day. Little Polynesian Restaurant offers a luxurious evening setting especially suited for those that desire intimate dining. Or, be tempted by tasty Pacific and international dishes at Sandals Restaurant located at Pacific Resort Rarotonga. Spectacular evening dining at Pacific Resort Aitutaki offers elegance and only the finest food including local fresh Aitutaki ingredients.
10. Yoga Stand-up Paddle Boarding
There is nothing better than finding balance…well maybe it’s a bit better on a stand-up paddleboard! KiteSUP and Ariki Adventures offer SUP Yoga in Muri Beach for all fitness levels. No experience is necessary to enjoy a relaxing session paddling out to the shores of a private island for a truly serene floating yoga class.
Let the waves hit your feet and the sand be your seat in paradise. Sit back relax and enjoy all the Cook Islands has to offer!