Aitutaki, Cook Islands

ABOVE Aerial view of the bright-turquoise Aitutaki Lagoon, Cook Islands
ABOVE Aerial view of the bright-turquoise Aitutaki Lagoon, Cook Islands

At one corner of a triangular lagoon in the South Pacific sits Aitutaki, the most idyllic of the Cook Islands. The lagoon is peppered with 14 motu – small volcanic and coral islets – which offer some great snorkeling and diving opportunities.

There’s plenty to do away from the beaches, too. Attempt the spectacular climb up Munga Poo, Aitutaki’s highest point, enjoying the renowned local hula dancing and local grilled fish at villages along the way. There are plenty of affordable accommodations next to the pristine beaches on the island, and a boat tour around the lagoon is a must.

Aitutaki, also traditionally known as Ara’ura and Utataki, is the second most-populated island in the Cook Islands, after Rarotonga. It is an “almost atoll”, with fifteen islets in a lagoon adjacent to the main island. Total land area is 18.05 km2 (6.97 sq mi), and the lagoon has an area of between 50 and 74 km2 (19 and 29 sq mi).

A major tourist destination, Aitutaki is the second most visited island of the Cook Islands. Wikipedia

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