Destination information - Cook Islands

What to see and do: Avarua, the capital of the Cook Islands and the main town of Rarotonga, was up till recently a sleepy little port. Avarua have had a facelift since the international Marine Nui festival, but has managed to keep its relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Water sports are the most obvious activity, with all this water. The swimming is great, and Rarotonga and Aiutaki both offer excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. Also available is surfing, sailing, cave diving and other water oriented activities.

Cycling, hiking, sunbathing and cave exploring are the main on-land activities, but other activities can be arranged.

Regional Activities: Festivals are something the people of the Cook Islands enjoy. The Cultural Festival is during the second week of February, which features quilt competitions, and arts and crafts displays. The Island Dance Festival is a thrilling event, held during the third week of April. This festival features numerous dance displays, and dance competitions.

The Constitutions Festival celebrates independence, and has got a wide spectrum of activities such as sports, dancing, music, historical and cultural displays.

Other events to look out for are the Song Quest in July, and the Tiare (Flora) Festival in November.

Beaches: One of the top beaches on the Cook Islands, and Rarotonga is the beautiful Muri Beach. This beach sweeps along the island for about 1 kilometre, and is backed by plam and iron trees.

Enjoy all-day sun at Aroa Beach on the southwest coast (of Rarotonga). The best beach for swimming and snorkelling is Takitumu.