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Picture the South Pacific, with sugar-white beaches, azure lagoons, palm trees and… thousands of tourists. If your idea of honeymoon paradise doesn't include jostling crowds, turn your attention to the unspoiled beauty of the Cook Islands. A chain of 15 perfect islands set in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the Cook Islands offer all the splendor of Tahiti and Fiji, but without all the people.
On Rarotonga, the largest island in the chain, you'll find amazing beaches, snorkeling, sport fishing, scuba diving and even surfing… all of the water sports for which the South Pacific is famous. But be prepared to look closer -- the Cook Islands offer honeymooners just a little something extra.
The Top 5 Cook Island Honeymoon Experiences
1. Tour the islands.
Rarotonga might be the biggest of the islands, but it's certainly not the only one. Plan a honeymoon within a honeymoon with a day trip from Rarotonga, or take advantage of the solitude of the outlying islands with a several-day stay. Aitutaki, with its sheltered lagoon and secluded beaches, is ideal for honeymooners in search of privacy. Manihiki is famous for its carefully cultivated black pearl farms. Manuae and its surrounding waters have been set aside as a marine park, a deserted stretch of sand and water that protect an astonishing Technicolor display of underwater life. For a different taste of paradise every day, explore each of the 15 main islands.
2. Experience an umu kai.
When people say good things come in small packages, they must be talking about the nightlife on the small island of Rarotonga. With all the different clubs, bars and luxury restaurants to try out, Rarotonga will keep you up late. But don't forget to take time out from this social whirl to try a traditional Cook Island feast, or umu kai. The experience of sitting under tropical stars, dining on fish baked on white-hot rocks in underground ovens, will stay with you for a lifetime.
3. Explore the interior.
When you can tear yourself away from the turquoise water, turn your attention to Rarotonga's interior. Cook Islanders take ecological preservation seriously, and the result is stunning scenery. Hike up glossy green peaks with a picnic, or take a walking tour of the island's perimeter. The view of the ever-changing ocean from high atop an island perch is breath-taking.
4. Take a drive.
Imagine zipping around the island, your arms around your new spouse and a warm breeze teasing your hair. Rarotonga is just 22 miles around, so there's no need for large cars or trucks. Rent a scooter for two instead, and transform everyday transportation into pure romance.
5. End your trip on the right note.
Think Sunday mornings are best spent lounging in bed? Not when you can celebrate the new week instead. The Cook Island churches are famous for the exuberant perfection of their hymns. Enjoy a morning cup of coffee on your verandah as you listen to the music in the air.
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Cook Island Travel Tips
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Climate:
The Cook Islands stay in the 70s to the 90s year-round, so get ready for South Pacific warmth and balmy breezes. You may encounter tropical storms in the wet season, from November to April, but the sun shines every day from May through October.
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Passport And Visas:
Passports are required for all visitors, but only tourists planning to stay longer than 31 days must obtain an entry permit.
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Currency:
The New Zealand Dollar is the Cook Island currency. The main banks on Rarotonga are open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and most have ATMs. In addition, the major hotels can all cash traveler's checks.
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Airport Transportation:
The Cook Island international airport is located on Rarotonga and served by several major carriers. Air Rarotonga provides inter-island transportation, with daily flights to most of the major islands. |
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