Aitutaki
North of Rarotonga, the beautiful island of Aitutaki is the second most populous of the Cook Islands, a group of 15 lovely islands in the South Pacific. The coral atoll boasts low rolling hills, banana plantation and coconut groves. This is an archetypal desert island and a wonderful place to unwind, with palm-fringed white sandy beaches, magnificent clear sea and a relaxed place of life. Aitutaki has a main island and a string of small islets (featuring Mangere, Akaiami, and Tekopua), all circled by a barrier reef, creating the breathtaking turquoise lagoon that makes it such a perfect place for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. Photo by: msdstefan
A 20-minute boat ride will take you to Akaiami, one of the smallest islets at the far end of the lagoon. This remote and tranquil islets is surrounded by pristine turquoise lagoon and coral reef. The one inhabitant there owns the island and runs a small lodge. Photo by: tom.fcb73
One-Foot Island is probably the biggest tourist attraction and another must-see. Along with the blue lagoons and flawless white beach, there is a post office, one of the most remote in the world. Several operators offer tours of the lagoon by boat, and if you haven’t seen enough marine life, visit the Ministry of Marine Resources to learn about the sea life in the lagoon, and see baby sea turtles and giant clams. The lagoon also offer great scuba diving and fishing, both game fishing and fly fishing. Photo by: Olivereindeer
When to go: April to November. Population: 2,194 (2006). How to get there: Fly from Auckland via Rarotonga. You should know: If you hire a car, you will need to buy a local driving licence from the police station at Arutanga. Photo by: calderdalefoto
