The Cook Islands have much to offer to those staying at a Rarotonga resort

If you’re looking for a place in the South Pacific to relax and soak up the culture, a Rarotonga resort in the captivating Cook Islands is a must. These islands are a stunning jewel in the ocean, with 15 idyllic islands surrounded by white-sand beaches and clear turquoise lagoons.

The Cook Islands are believed to have been first settled around 2,400 years ago, although historians say the best-known of the islands in the group, Rarotonga, was settled around 1,500 years ago. They believe that the locals who live there today originally immigrated from Asia during the great Polynesian migration.

In 1888, the islands became a British protectorate. Then in 1901 the Cook Islands became a dependency of New Zealand. Sixty years later, it became a ruling state. The islands have become very popular among international tourists who love the sun, the sea, friendly people and a relaxed atmosphere. Rarotonga is the most popular place to visit here and you don’t have to look far on the island to find a fabulous Rarotonga resort for your accommodation. A ring road called Ara Tapu connects all the resorts, cities and towns, making it easy to travel around the island.

Rarotongan’s weather is lovely, making it the perfect place for a holiday in the sun, with warm water, swaying coconut trees and a whispering breeze that will lull you into thinking you’ve truly arrived in paradise. As well as being the most popular island for tourists, Raratonga is the capital of the Cook Islands, but you can easily travel by boat or plane to some of the other nearby islands, such as Aitutaki or Atiu.

When you fly to Rarotonga, you will arrive at Nikao Airport, which is about 2 km from the village of Avarua on the north side of the island. The eastern side of the island features the popular Muri village, which is also the main tourist area. It’s easy to find an excellent Rarotonga resort in Muri, which is centered around the beach and lagoon. On the western side of the island is the town of Aroa, which can be reached via the ring road by rental car, scooter, bus or bicycle. If you are particularly energetic, you may like to walk! Your Rarotonga resort hosts will be happy to help you sort out your travel requirements while you’re on the island.