Trade in that screensaver for the real thing — these totally secluded, completely blissful islands are the stuff of honeymoon dreams.
By: Pam GroutAiutaki, Cook Islands
One of 15 islands in the Cooks archipelago, a relaxed nation spread out over 756,000 square miles of idyllic Pacific waters, Aitutaki has an eight-by-10-mile coral-ringed lagoon with more shades of blue than a Home Depot paint palette. It has another 15 motus (that’s Polynesian for islets), many of which are deserted and perfect for a sweet, swept-away, just-the-two-of-you day.
Photo courtesy of Cook Island's Tourism Corporation
What to Do:
Make a splash and sign on to do anything that involves this stunning lagoon’s crystal clear turquoise water — swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, wind surfing or just chilling on the sparkling sands. And with monikers like Heaven and Honeymoon Motu (both of which are aptly named), you’ll surely want to explore the outlying motus as well.
On Motu Akaiami there’s a small museum with objects and photos from the old Coral Route of Tasman Empire Airways Limited (a precursor to Air New Zealand). The isle served as a refueling station for flights that crossed the Pacific. And the passengers (the likes of John Wayne, Cary Grant and Queen Elizabeth II) disembarked to enjoy Polynesian dance performances and meals with white linens, full silver service and tropical cocktails served on this white sand, palm-fringed beach. Stop off at Tapuaetai (aka One-Foot Island), the world’s only deserted island with its own post office. Small boats bring snorkelers and other assorted picnickers for ika mata (it’s made from raw fish, often plucked out of the sea while you wait, marinated in lime juice and served cold with coconut cream) and other local specialties. You can mail letters and have your passport stamped. The official stamp, a giant foot, will dwarf all the others in your passport and stump Customs Officials at home.
Photo courtesy of Bishop's Cruises
Where to Stay
Although Survivor: Cook Islands was partially filmed in Aitutaki, the concept of roughing it isn’t much employed at the island’s handful of resorts. Pacific Resort Aitutaki, a boutique hotel with 27 beachfront suites, villas and bungalows has hardwood floors and sprawling porches which are perfect for watching whales, stars and sunsets (room rates start at about $836 a night and include breakfast and airport transfers; pacificaitutaki.com).
Photo courtesy of Pacifica Resort Aiutaki
