Aitutaki

Every visitor to Aitutaki - whether on a day trip from Rarotonga or spending a few days in this quitessential paradise atoll - is drawn to the lagoon. The colours are even more intoxicating in real life than they are in the pictures, and you'll want to delve beneath the surface and wallow in the glorious blue hues. 

A lagoon cruise is an essential element of a holiday in Aitutaki, with half-day or full-day options. There's a selection of cruises to choose from, ranging from a tradtional wooden Polynesian vaka to more modern boats, with the choice of a shared cruise or a private cruise with your own skipper.  Make sure you take your passport and get a footprint stamp at one of the world's smallest post offices on One Foot Island! 

From July to October, humpback whales make their journey from the cold climes of Antartica to the warm waters of the South Pacific to give birth to their young. During this migration period, humpbacks, as well as other whale species, can be seen just beyond the reef where the deep waters become their playground. Spy them from dry land as they breach, or join a boat trip and get within close proximity to these ocean giants.  You even have the chance to swim with them whilst keeping a respectful distance.

Migration patterns depend on water temperatures so there is a little variation each year, but they can often be spotted along the west coast of Rarotonga.  For a truly immersive experience, however, Aitutaki is the place to be!