Aitutaki, Cook Islands

The undisputed highlight of any visit is the Aitutaki Lagoon. The best way to experience it is on a full-day Lagoon Cruise, which will take you to several stunning spots for swimming and snorkeling with giant trevally and colorful fish.

A must-visit stop on any lagoon tour is One Foot Island (Tapuaetai). Here you can get a unique passport stamp from the world's smallest post office and walk on sands that feel like powdered sugar.

For a change of scenery, take a short scooter ride or taxi to the island's highest point, Maunga Pu. A quick 15-20 minute hike to the summit provides a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the entire lagoon and its brilliant turquoise hues.

From Aitutaki, the most spectacular nearby destinations are the 21 other motus (islets) that dot the perimeter of its magnificent lagoon. These are not separate towns but uninhabited slices of paradise, reachable only by boat as part of a day trip.

Popular motus visited on lagoon tours include Honeymoon Island, a stunning sandbar perfect for a stroll, and Maina Motu, which offers excellent snorkeling spots. The main hub of the Cook Islands, Rarotonga, is a 45-minute flight away and cannot be visited on a typical port day.

Cruise ships do not dock directly at Aitutaki; they anchor in the deep, protected waters just outside the main lagoon. Passengers are then brought ashore via a short tender ride to the main wharf in the village of Arutanga on the western side of the island.

The tender wharf is located directly in the island's main settlement, so you are steps away from the small town center. Tour operators for lagoon cruises and scooter rentals will be waiting at the wharf. There are very few amenities directly at the pier itself, but shops, a post office, and banks are a short walk away.

The official currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). The Cook Islands also mint their own coins and a unique three-dollar bill, which are legal tender locally but are often kept as souvenirs as they cannot be exchanged elsewhere.

While some resorts may accept credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), many smaller shops, cafes, and market stalls operate on a cash-only basis. US dollars are generally not accepted, so it's best to have local currency. ATMs are available in the main village of Arutanga, near the port landing area.

Aitutaki is considered extremely safe, with a friendly local population and virtually no serious crime. It is one of the safest destinations a cruise passenger can visit, and exploring the main island independently by scooter is a very common and secure activity.

The primary safety concerns are related to the natural environment. Always wear reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the strong tropical sun. When swimming or snorkeling, be mindful of coral to avoid cuts and be aware of water currents, especially in channels between motus. Always follow the guidance of your tour operators.

Aitutaki enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round. The main cruise season generally coincides with the drier season, which runs from April to November. During this period, you can expect pleasant temperatures averaging between 24-28°C (75-82°F) with lower humidity and plenty of sunshine.

The wet season occurs from December to March, bringing higher humidity, more frequent rainfall, and a slightly increased risk of tropical cyclones. No matter when you visit, it's wise to pack light clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light rain jacket for occasional showers.

Getting around the main island of Aitutaki is a breeze. The most popular option for independent exploration is renting a scooter or bicycle, which gives you the freedom to tour the island's 18-kilometer circumference at your own pace.

There are no ride-sharing services, and taxis are very limited and must be booked in advance. To explore the famous lagoon and its motus, a guided boat tour is essential. Renowned operators like The Vaka Cruise or Bishops Cruises offer full-day excursions that typically include snorkeling, lunch, and pick-up from the tender wharf.

Shopping in Aitutaki is a relaxed and low-key affair, centered in the main village of Arutanga. You will find several small shops and a local market near the tender pier, especially on days when a cruise ship is in.

Look for local handicrafts such as beautifully woven rito hats, fans, and bags (kete). Colorful sarongs (pareu) and ukuleles are also popular souvenirs. While the Cook Islands are known for black pearls, the selection is more extensive on Rarotonga, but you can still find quality pieces here. Prices are generally fixed, and bargaining is not a common practice.