Aitutaki Island
It is the second largest of the Cook Islands with a
population of around 2,500. This group of 15 Islands was named after Captain
Cook who landed here in 1770's. It is a coral atoll with low rolling hills,
banana plantations and coconut groves. Although it is the second most visited of
the Cook Islands and tourism is its main source of income, Aitutaki Island is still
unspoiled. The palm fringed white sandy beaches, magnificent blue sea along with
wonderfully relaxed pace of life make this place a dream come true. This
beautiful Island was used for the British TV series Shipwreck where 16 people
were left on this uninhabited Island. Many couples get married on Aitutaki, one
the worlds most romantic honeymoon destinations.
There is a lot that one can do on this beautiful Island of Aitutaki. Along with
the small uninhabited islets to the south and east, Aitutaki Island is surrounded by a
barrier reef, thus creating the spectacular turquoise lagoon. The waters here
are home to a large number of fish, making it an ideal place for snorkeling or
scuba diving. You could also take a boat across its shimmering surface in to the
clear turquoise water. On the Island you will get a chance to enjoy the
traditional Aitutaki dance, where girls wearing colorful grass skirts, coconut
tops and flowers in their hair dance to the beats of the Aitutaki Island drummers.
There are a number of activities here along with plenty of accommodation options
from economical to luxury hotels making it an ideal travel and tourism
destination.
Fly from Auckland via Rarotonga. There is less than a four hour flight from Rarotonga.
Places to see:
The old church in Arutanga, the gigantic Banyan trees. Also some of the not to be missed things are - Alagoon cruise to the islets of Akaiami and Tapuatae (one foot island), flyfishing for the fighting bonefish, ika mata - matinated raw fish with coconut sauce or Aitutaki's dancers that are famous throughout the Cook Islands.
