Curator’s statement
For travelers from Australia and New Zealand, Aitutaki is almost unfairly close for what it delivers: a destination with beaches and water that rival the Maldives or Bora Bora, but without the 20-hour flight. It’s a place where lagoon blue becomes a memory you can’t shake, where local smiles are as warm as the sun, and where slowing down feels not like a choice but a gift.
At Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort, you can wake up in an over-water bungalow, paddle into glass-clear water before breakfast, bike into the island during sunset for dinner, and still be back in time to watch the stars light up one of the South Pacific’s clearest skies. This isn’t just a resort it’s a front-row seat to one of the world’s most pristine lagoons.
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View of the resort
Coming into land
Accommodations and amenities
Over-Water Bungalows: The only ones in the Cook Islands, with steps leading straight into the lagoon. If you’re considering a splurge, this is the category worth it there’s nothing like coffee on your private deck, toes dangling over turquoise water.
Beachfront Bungalows: A little more grounded (literally), but the sand is just steps from your door. The Premium Beachfronts on Sunset Beach are especially atmospheric—golden light at dusk is spectacular here.
Shared spaces have been recently refreshed, including a new infinity pool, lobby, and restaurant complex that feel airy and connected to the lagoon.
They can help celebrate special occasions!
Dining and drinks
Flying Boat Beach Bar & Grill: Perfect for casual lunches (try the fresh tuna poke bowl, which tastes like the lagoon in a bowl) and cocktails as the sun drops.
Local catch of the day
My hidden gem: Avatea Café: Borrow the resort’s complimentary bikes and pedal to this family-run café (approximately 20 minutes). Dinner here feels like eating at someone’s island home—warm service, simple but flavorful dishes, and a chance to connect with locals. Order the ika mata (a traditional raw fish salad in coconut cream)— it’s the freshest on the island. Pro tip: Go for an early dinner otherwise you’ll be cycling back in the dark. The cycle itself passing palm groves and glimpses of lagoon is half the fun.
Fish Curry at Avatea Cafe
Experiences and activities
Teking Lagoon Cruise: If you only do one excursion, make it this one. Small groups, laid-back guides, and an itinerary that feels like insider access to the lagoon’s best spots. Snorkel with giant clams and vibrant reef fish, then land on Honeymoon Island for lunch. Imagine grilled fish, tropical fruit, and sand between your toes while the water around you glows every shade of blue. It’s not just a tour, it feels like spending the day with friends who happen to know all the lagoon’s secrets.
Honeymoon Island: beautiful beaches for swimming
Need to know
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Cook Islands page.
Travel Advisor
Alex Pusenjak
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