40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Cook Islands Tourism
40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2024]

© Cook Islands Tourism

What are the Best Family Activities in the Cook Islands?

An effortless tropical excursion, Rarotonga and the Cook Islands make it so easy to whip up the perfect family getaway. With a huge array of family-friendly tours and activities (we mean, this article is 40 points long, people!), there’s no chance of any family member getting bored here. In this list of the best things to do in the Cook Islands with kids, we’re covering family activities across all of the islands; not just Rarotonga. So get a notepad and pen and start making your family bucket list by scrolling down!

Before you do that, though, don’t forget to open up The Complete Travel Guide to the Cook Islands for Families in a new tab – you’ll definitely thank us for it.

1. Check Out the Underwater World of Rarotonga (Including a Shipwreck) on the Raro Reef Sub

One of the most unique boat tours in the Cook Islands that the kids will love, Raro Reef Sub cruises out to the outer reef of Rarotonga. Look out for large pelagic fish, turtles, sharks and even whales on this semi-submersible vessel. The 1h25mins-1h30mins tour takes you around the RMS Maitai shipwreck and to places that are usually unreachable with kids. If that wasn’t enough, a percentage of the trip goes toward local conservation. See more amazing tours like this in the 10 Best Boat & Sailing Tours in the Cook Islands.

Location: Northern end of Rarotonga. Tours depart from Avatiu Harbour, Avarua.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Reef Sub

2. Jump on a Lagoon Cruise in Rarotonga or Aitutaki

A fun day out for the whole family, the cruises on the Muri Lagoon (Rarotonga) or Aitutaki Lagoon (Aitutaki) are varied enough to seize even the shortest attention spans. Choose from either Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruizes (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor) or Koka Lagoon Cruises (on Viator and Tripadvisor) in Rarotonga, both offering ample snorkelling time, a larger-than-life crew and a show on an uninhabited island (literally, just down the beach from each other). For families visiting Aitutaki, Teking Lagoon Cruises, The Vaka Cruise and Bishop’s Cruises are our top picks for lagoon cruises for families. Compare the lagoon cruises further in the 10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

Location: Muri Beach, Rarotonga and Ootu Beach, Aitutaki.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

3. Do a Family-Friendly Island Hike

Walking the verdant jungle trails is one of the best ways to explore the interiors of the Cook Islands but what’s the best option with kids in tow? One of the easiest and most rewarding hikes on Rarotonga is Hospital Hill. The 2km (1.2-mile), 30-40mins return walk starts from the Rarotonga Hospital car park and steadily ventures up an easy-to-follow dirt road to a viewpoint overlooking Nikao Beach, the lagoon and the airport. If you have older kids with lots of energy to burn, check out the 10 Best Walks & Hikes in the Cook Islands for more trails.

Location: Northern end of Rarotonga. Top of Hospital Hill Road, Nikao. The dirt track can be found behind the hospital buildings.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© DH - Cook Islands Tourism

4. Have a Swim at the Papua Waterfall

Cool off and get some “cool” pics at the Papua Waterfall. Also known as Wigmore’s Waterfall, the falls can be found among the forest in a clearing at the southern end of Rarotonga, complete with picnic tables to make the most of your visit. The waterfall is at its best when there hasn’t been a dry spell (which isn’t often on Rarotonga) and swimming is best done in the bottom pool (not on top where the water pipes are). Plus, avoid climbing the sides where rocks are known to fall and remember to take some insect repellent with you! See more amazing experiences on Rarotonga in the 30 Things to Do on Rarotonga with Kids.

Location: Southern end of Rarotonga. End of Papua Road, Vaimaanga. To drive up the road to the waterfall, you may be asked for a donation (around NZ$2 for bikes and NZ$5 for cars/trucks).

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© David Kirkland - Cook Islands Tourism

5. Learn Something New at the Discover Marine Wildlife & Eco Centre

A rainy day must-do or a great place to stop for an extended lunch thanks to the cafe and ice-cream parlour on-site, the Discover Marine Wildlife & Eco Centre is Rarotonga’s most family-friendly all-weather activity. The centre might be small but it’s packed with all sorts of interesting displays, from rehabilitated seabirds and coconut crabs to fascinating whaling and shipwreck artefacts. Browse the aquarium with its devilish stonefish and learn about how the Cook Islands were formed. Check out more experiences to do in any weather in the 20 Things to Do in the Cook Islands on a Rainy Day.

Location: West side of Rarotonga. Main Road (Ara Tapu), Arorangi.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

6. Be Entertained at an Island Night

With fierce dancing from the island’s warriors and energetic booty shaking from the island’s princesses, a cultural show on Rarotonga, Aitutaki (and sometimes even Atiu) is a must-do for all ages. Also known as “island nights”, the Cook Islands’ cultural shows can be found in various resorts or at the historical site of Highland Paradise or the overwater venue of Te Vara Nui Village (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor). All come complete with a buffet of traditional “umu kai”, as well as plenty of options for fussy eaters.

Location: Find the locations in the 7 Best Island Nights in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

7. Head Out on a Family Kayaking Excursion

With so much sheltered lagoon to explore and the abundance of kayaks to enjoy, you can’t take the kids to Rarotonga or Aitutaki and not do some kayaking. Kayaks are a staple of beachfront accommodations in Rarotonga and Aitutaki, while kayak rentals are also available with Adventure Cook IslandsKiteSUP and Captain Tama Aquasportz. Ask your host for the best places to go from your chosen accommodation or check out the Kayaking in the Cook Islands: Top 5 Places to Kayak for inspiration on where to go.

Location: All over Rarotonga and Aitutaki – check out kayak rentals in the 5 Best Kayak Tours & Rentals in the Cook Islands.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Craig Owen - Cook Islands Tourism

8. Experience Sailing on the Aitutaki Lagoon

An alternative way to explore the Aitutaki Lagoon is on a Hobie sailing catamaran with Sailing Aitutaki. Families of up to four can enjoy a full morning on the lagoon all to themselves with the guidance of Captain Ted, who can teach the kids (and you) how to sail, as well as stop off at family-friendly snorkelling spots. Ask to do a ceremonial planting of a coconut tree, which is an interesting aspect for all ages. See more low-impact experiences like this in the 10 Best Eco Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

Location: Aitutaki. Tours depart from Ootu Beach.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Turama Photography - Cook Islands Tourism

9. Hit Amazing (and Safe) Snorkelling Spots

With plenty of safe swimming spots and hundreds of fish surrounding the coral bommies of Rarotonga and Aitutaki, you’ll have trouble trying to get your kids (and yourselves) out of the water – trust us! Rarotonga has no lack of snorkelling spots to be enjoyed together, from the lively Aroa Marine Reserve to the famous “Fruits of Rarotonga” site. Meanwhile, Aitutaki’s Base One snorkelling site at the end of the old runway is an easy one to find on the main island. Find out more about the snorkelling hotspots in The Best Snorkelling in the Cook Islands: Top 10 Places to Snorkel or compare tours in the 10 Best Snorkelling Tours in the Cook Islands.

Location: See the above links for snorkelling locations.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

10. Let the Kids Loose at the Kids’ Club on Rarotonga

Let the kids have their holiday while you do one of the more grown-up adventure or relaxation activities on Rarotonga by taking them to a kids’ club. Available at the Pacific Resort RarotongaEdgewater Resort & Spa and The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, kids’ clubs involve fun cultural and marine activities. Kids typically come back with their homemade floral ei with facts about the all-powerful coconut and stories of crab racing, traditional dancing, basket weaving and more.

Location: See The Best Kids’ Clubs in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands for locations of all of Raro’s kids’ clubs.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

11. Enjoy Some Time at the Beach

If you hadn’t figured it out by now, there’s “a whole lotta beach” in the Cook Islands! Simply hanging out on the beach and building sandcastles is one way to enjoy the sands, but it’s also worth scouting out the most picturesque beaches and swimming spots, such as the marine reserve at Aroa Beach on Rarotonga, the picture-perfect beaches of One Foot Island in Aitutaki, and the secluded beaches backed by “makatea” (coral rock) on the islands of Mangaia, Atiu, Mitiaro and Mauke. We list all of the Cook Islands’ most stunning beaches in the 10 Best Beaches in the Cook Islands.

Location: See the link above for locations.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© DH - Cook Islands Tourism

12. Get Competitive at Rarotonga’s Mini Golf

You know the deal: mini golf has been entertaining families for centuries and it’s no different on Rarotonga! Enjoy 18 holes of fun challenges under the shade of the mango trees and wrap up the experience with a pizza at the cafe. The course is open 7 days a week, from 10am to 6pm. See more golfing highlights in The Complete Guide to Golf in the Cook Islands.

Location: West side of Rarotonga. Inave Road, Arorangi (well signposted off the main road).

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

13. Go On an Adventure to Anatakitaki Caves

A must-see attraction on Atiu and an awesome adventure for active families, Anatakitaki Caves are a series of caves with awesome limestone stalactites and home to a rare and fascinating bird. Join Atiu Eco-Adventure Anatakitaki Cave Tour for a three-hour guided experience taking you through the dense rainforest (with jagged coral rock, so make sure everyone is wearing appropriate footwear) to three spectacular caves. Bring your swimwear for the cave pool and put on your best bird-spotting hats for seeing the kopeka, a swiftlet unique to Atiu, that uses sonar just like a bat. Check out more amazing experiences on Atiu in the 5 Things to Do on Atiu with Kids.

Location: East side of Atiu. Transfers are included in the tour mentioned.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Cook Islands Tourism

14. Do a Reef Walk with Ariimoana

A fascinating eco-tour on Rarotonga that gets you exploring the reef safely, Ariimoana is run by a local family, Kura, Jacapo and their daughter Mahi, and helps you discover marine creatures that you’d otherwise miss. They are a wealth of knowledge about Rarotonga and its marine life, giving you an insight into local conservation efforts, as well as giving kids a chance to hold interesting marine creatures found along the way.

Location: South coast of Rarotonga. Main Road (Ara Tapu), Vaimaanga.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Creators Hype - Cook Islands Tourism

15. Visit the Historic Site and Explore the Rock Pools at Black Rock

A volcanic outcrop among the sand, Black Rock is not only a historical site on Rarotonga, but a great place to snorkel or reef walk. The rock is said to be where Cook Islander’s spirits depart to the afterlife, which you can learn more about on the interpretation panel erected in front of the rock. At low tide, the rock pools are interesting to investigate, while it’s also a fun snorkelling spot at high tide. Check out more interesting historical places of interest in the 10 Best Historical Sites in the Cook Islands.

Location: West side of Rarotonga. Main Road (Ara Tapu), Nikao.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

16. Have a Thrill Ride on Rongohiva Watersports’ Banana Boat

For some high-speed thrills that’s suitable for adrenaline junkies of all ages, join Rongohiva Watersports for one of their exciting tours. Their banana boat and speedboat tour is a highlight for families, 1h30mins of blasting along the waters of Avarua. Alternatively, try their speedboat and snorkelling tour or even watch whales in the season (July to October).

Location: Northern end of Rarotonga. Avatiu Harbour, Avarua.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Pixabay

17. Enjoy a Cycling or Walking Tour with Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours

If you have kids who love riding bikes, then make sure that Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours is on your itinerary. They have a tow-behind buggy, child seat, trail-behind bikes and kids’ bikes, so any age category can enjoy peddling along the coral backroads of Rarotonga. Their “Discover Bicycle Tour” is a good one for families, taking you at an easy pace with stops to taste fresh produce and listen to interesting stories about island life. Learn more about the tour on Viator or Tripadvisor. The tour also includes lunch. Alternatively, check out their “Walk-about” tour with ice cream, which you can also check out on Viator and Tripadvisor. For more cycling tours, head to the 5 Best Bike Tours in the Cook Islands.

Location: Rarotonga. Transfers are included with the tour.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours

18. Explore Rarotonga’s Mairie Nui Gardens

Cross the quaint footbridges and into seven acres of botanical paradise at Mairie Nui Gardens. These gorgeous tropical gardens just outside of Muri provide a stunning place to explore with kids between the lily ponds, intriguing plants and a backdrop of the dramatic mountain landscape. You can also stop by the Cafe & Grill with food flavoured with the garden’s homegrown herbs and spices. Entry to the gardens is by donation, making it one of the 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do on Rarotonga.

Location: South coast of Rarotonga. Main Road (Ara Tapu), Titikaveka.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

19. Get Muddy on a Raro Buggy Tour

Let loose on an off-roading vehicle with your little buddy in the passenger seat (no younger than four years old) and get muddy exploring the inland tracks of Rarotonga. You’ll definitely be eased into the chaos, however, with the 1.5-2-hour buggy tour starting with a slow-paced yet interesting history tour of the old Sheraton Resort site before heading inland to plantations and dirt tracks including a stop at the Papua Waterfall (Wigmore’s Waterfall). Find out more about the excursion in the 5 Best Off-Road Tours in the Cook Islands.

Location: South coast of Rarotonga. Departures are from Wigmore’s Superstore, Main Road (Ara Tapu), Takitumu.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© KSole - Cook Islands Tourism

20. See the Muri Lagoon Light Up on a Night SUP Tour

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is fun with the family no matter the hour, but at night with your SUP’s LED lights illuminating the lagoon waters beneath you… Oh boy! Both Ariki Adventures and KiteSUP offer wonderful night SUP tours, Ariki Adventures focussing more on the nature of the uninhabited island they visit while KiteSUP includes a fire show on an uninhabited island. Learn more about the SUP experiences in the 6 Best Paddleboard Tours & Hires in the Cook Islands.

Location: East coast of Rarotonga. Ariki Adventures – Tours depart from Muri Beach in front of the Muri Beach Club Hotel. KiteSUP – 56 Main Road (Ara Tapu), Muri.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© David Kirkland - Cook Islands Tourism

21. Enjoy Tropical Treats at the Punanga Nui Market

The vibrant Punanga Nui Market ambience along with the sights and sounds of a local gathering is a treat for all the senses. Kids can try an array of tropical fruit, smoothies and other treats at the food stalls, while pareu (sarongs) and island shirts make for fun souvenirs. Don’t forget to check out the food stalls (like Baby Pancakes) at the sheds on the east side of the market, while there are also usually puppies to pet next to the SPCA shop. The market takes place on Saturday mornings on Rarotonga. See more markets to peruse in the 5 Best Markets in the Cook Islands.

Location: Northern end of Rarotonga. Main Road (Ara Tapu), west end of Avarua.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

22. Visit the Te Ara Museum

One of the most impressive museums on RarotongaTe Ara Museum makes for a relaxing activity that will only take an hour or so out of your day. See grand exhibitions about the early Polynesian navigators who made it to Rarotonga and trace back their journey across the world, learn about European influence, and see displays on the present and future of the Cook Islands. You can stick around for light refreshments at the cafe and browse the 100% locally made gifts at the shop. See how the museum compares to others in the 5 Best Museums in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

Location: East side of Rarotonga. Main Road (Ara Tapu), Muri.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

23. Try Some Treats at the Muri Night Market

Another market endeavour to try is the Muri Night Market on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday evenings from 5pm. It’s the place for cheap eats when the island’s food trucks gather together for a whirlwind of tastes. You’ll be sorted for dinner and dessert at a fraction of the price that you’d pay in a restaurant! If your family are into good food, make sure you also check out the 10 Best Foodie Experiences in the Cook Islands.

Location: East coast of Rarotonga. Main Road (Ara Tapu), Muri.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

24. Go for a Swim in the Cave Pool of Vai Nauri on Mitiaro

One of the most exciting natural attractions for families in the Cook Islands is, unfortunately, only available on the outer islands. Those who are lucky to venture as far as Mitiaro, for example, have an epic swimming cave to experience. Vai Nauri holds a deep pool with clear deep blue waters and striking limestone features. There are a set of steps down to the pool or you can clamber around the pool and jump off a 3m (10ft) outcrop into the deep waters. Discover more amazing caves to visit in our 10 Best Caves in the Cook Islands.

Location: West side of Mitiaro. A short dead-end road to Vai Naui can be found a few hundred metres north of the Lake Rotonui turnoff.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

25. Immerse in the Atiuan Culture with Punarea Culture Tours

On a tour on Atiu suitable for all ages, Joshua from Punarea Culture Tours offers a fascinating experience of history, crafting demonstrations and traditional food! Kids love hearing about the history of Atiu’s fierce warriors, while the tapa-cloth crafting and “Tuki Poi” demonstrations allow you to have a more hands-on experience – something a little different to the usual “coconut demonstration” that you’ve probably seen on Rarotonga. You’ll help your host plate up the umu which has been slowly cooking tropical meat and vegetables throughout the tour! The tour lasts approximately three hours. Discover more ways to experience the Cook Islands culture in the 10 Best Cultural Activities in the Cook Islands.

Location: Atiu. Transfers are included.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Taniera - Cook Islands Tourism

26. Meet George (and the Birds) on an Eco-Tour on Atiu

Another fantastic family-friendly tour on Atiu, “Birdman George” is your guide on this delightfully varied driving and walking tour traversing the island. While the tour includes walking historic trails and visiting historically significant sites, the main focus is the ecology of Atiu and its magnificent birdlife. George will point out kakerori and colourful kura that he looks after in this island sanctuary. After learning about the local flora and fauna and the medicinal uses of Atiuan plants, you’ll arrive at a picturesque beach where George will serve either a tropical spread for a picnic lunch or an umu on a Sunday. The tour lasts approximately four to five hours. Learn more about planning your trip to Atiu in The Complete Travel Guide to Atiu for Families.

Location: Atiu. Transfers are included.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Cook Islands Tourism

27. Feed the Fish in Mangaia

On two opposite ends of the island of Mangaia, find platforms where you can feed the fish! Atuokoro Landing in the north is a plateau at sea level with pools of fish surrounding it. Alternatively, Vai Nato in the south has a raised vantage point above the pools where you can feed the fish from above. See more experiences you can have as a family in the 7 Things to Do on Mangaia with Kids.

Location: Mangaia. Atuokoro Landing – North side of Mangaia, on the coastal road between Oneroa and the airport. Vai Nato – South side of Mangaia, along the coastal road approximately 6km (3.8 miles) from Oneroa.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

28. Explore Mangaia’s Caves

Mangaia is also home to some of the largest and most impressive caves in the Cook Islands, adorned with stalactites, stalagmites and, most noteworthy of all, crystalline floors that sparkle like glitter in the torchlight! You’ll also likely come across the odd pile of human bones where Mangaia’s ancestors used to bury their dead – spooky but kind of awe-inspiring (hopefully, your kids aren’t the sort to get nightmares). Some spectacular caves to visit include Te Rua Rere, Toru a Poru and Tuatini, all of which you can hire guides to lead you through their complex networks of tunnels. We highly recommend Tuatini if exploring with kids, however, as it is the easiest to walk through compared to the other ones that have some dangerous drops. Tours last approximately a couple of hours and usually include transfers. Choose your cave using the 5 Best Caves on Mangaia.

Location: Mangaia. See the link above for locations.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Taniera - Cook Islands Tourism

29. See Whales From Shore or a Whale Watching Tour

Between July and October, the flukes of humpback whales can be seen diving into the deep beyond the reef. While it’s possible to spot whales from any shore of the islands, there are also boat tours, like Rongohiva Watersports and Raro Reef Sub that can get you closer to the action on the water. Find out more about tours in the 7 Best Whale Tours in the Cook Islands.

Location: Check out the best locations in the 10 Best Places for Whale Watching in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

30. See Starfish and More at the Tua’ati Rock Pools on Mangaia

Visit this stunning little corner of Mangaia at low tide and discover all sorts of marine life clinging onto the jagged rocks! With pockets of deep pools to snorkel in, as well as plenty to see through the crystal clear waters on the reef, Tua’ati Rock Pools is well worth exploring with kids! Remember to bring your reef shoes. Plan more of your trip to Mangaia using The Complete Travel Guide to Mangaia for Families.

Location: West side of Mangaia. Find the small beach between two rock walls, approximately 1.6km (1 mile) south of Babe’s Store in Oneroa.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

31. Go for a Swim in Vai Tango Cave on Mauke

Another spectacular cave pool that’s heaps of fun to explore with kids, Vai Tanga Cave is the easiest (and best) cave to visit on Mauke. There’s a 500m (550-yard) trail through gardens and jungle to this popular swimming hole with a platform to make getting in (and out) a breeze. Discover more experiences on this less-visited island in the 15 Best Things to Do on Mauke.

Location: Mauke. Accessible off the main road in Ngatiarua. Ask locals where to find the trail. Alternatively, Vai Tango Cave is included on tours around the island.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Taniera - Cook Islands Tourism

32. Swing on a Giant Banyan Tree on Mauke

Covering an area of 4,000m² (43,000ft²), Mauke’s giant banyan tree is the largest in the South Pacific. On the trail to this awesome natural attraction, you’ll pass the small cave of Vai Moti where you a take a quick dip. You’ll then come across the tangled roots hanging from above and crawling across the ground that indicates you’ve reached the Giant Banyan Tree! Locals have made an awesome tree swing with the roots – so have a go! If you continue on the trail for a further 500m (550 yards), you will reach Motuanga Cave, also known as “The Cave with 100 Rooms”.

Location: Mauke. There is a clearing on the road to the start of this trail between Areora village and A’anga Beach on the east coast. As the trail is difficult to find, it is best to explore this area with a guide, which can be arranged through your Mauke accommodation.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Taniera - Cook Islands Tourism

33. Check Out the Saragossa Shipwreck on Mangaia

What kid doesn’t like to see spooky shipwreck sites?! The shipwreck at the southern tip of Mangaia is a scattering of remains from when the Saragossa crashed in a storm in 1904 on its way from Newcastle, Australia to San Fransisco. Take the bumpy road (available on some island tours) or walk to the site at low tide to explore its anchor and other bits of rusted machinery that have become part of the reef.

Location: South side of Mangaia. Take the coastal road at the eastern end of Tamarua village. The road is approximately 2km (1.2 miles) to the shipwreck.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Taniera - Cook Islands Tourism

34. Jump On an Off-Roading Sightseeing Tour with Raro Safari Tours

A unique tiki tour of Rarotonga, Raro Safari Tours in their wacky safari Land Rovers topped with Cook Islands flags and coconuts will take you literally up mountain peaks on an excursion on the inland roads of Rarotonga. With a great emphasis on history and culture and a lot of time also spent on the outer coastal road of Rarotonga, it might not be every family member’s cup of tea. But the buffet lunch at the end with lots of island treats is certainly a crowd-pleaser. See more tours worth checking out in the 10 Best Sightseeing Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

Location: Rarotonga. Transfers are included on this tour.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

35. Drink from a Coconut

Ok, so this isn’t the most imaginative item on this list of things to do in the Cook Islands with kids, but it’s a fun experience nonetheless! Available at any cafe, restaurant, market stall or even homestays on the outer islands, “nu” (drinking coconuts) are readily available for a refreshing treat. You’ll just need to order the one, however, as those bad boys hold a lot of juice! Check out more fun fruit to experience in the 15 Exotic Fruits in the Cook Islands You HAVE to Try!

Location: All over the Cook Islands!

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

36. Go for a Family Road Trip Around the Islands

Forget about “Are we there yet?” There’s so much to see on any of the atolls of the Cook Islands, as well as the island’s being so small that you’re close to everything, it’s impossible to get bored on a family road trip. Hit the historical maraes, stop by quaint cafes and food trucks, and head to the beach for a snorkel. All you need is to hire a car using The 10 Best Car Rentals in the Cook Islands and hit the sights mentioned in A Self-Guided Day Trip Around Rarotonga, A Self-Guided Day Trip Around Aitutaki, Trip Around Atiu, Mangaia, Mauke and Mitiaro.

Location: See the above links for locations.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Cook Islands Tourism

37. Build Sandcastles or Go Hermit Crab Hunting on the Beach

Yes, we might be cheating by mentioning the beach again, but if a bucket and spade are part of your children’s holiday must-haves then make sure you get in some good hours at the beach which can be spent creating the most fabulous sand kingdom! You’ll find plenty of hermit crabs on the shores too, so can be something to keep an eye out for when beachcombing.

Location: All over the Cook Islands! Check out the 10 Best Beaches in the Cook Islands.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Cook Islands Tourism

38. Get a Rarotonga Family Photoshoot

Remember your family getaway to Rarotonga for years to come with professional photos on Muri Beach. The island’s famous photographer, Charlotte Piho, will make sure everyone is feeling relaxed and happy to bring out the best smiles. Finally, now every family member can be in the photo! Find out more about the experience on Viator and Tripadvisor

Location: East coast of Rarotonga. Charlotte Piho Gallery, Main Road (Ara Tapu), Muri.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© DH - Cook Islands Tourism

39. Hit Rarotonga and Aitutaki’s Playgrounds

Kids are always happy to see playgrounds, even on an isolated island in the South Pacific! A hotspot is the playground by the Punanga Nui Market Rarotonga), but you can also find one at the YWAM in Vaimaanga (Rarotonga) and in Arutanga on Aitutaki. Add them to your itinerary when you do that road trip around the island as mentioned in point #36.

Location: Punanga Nui Market – Main Road (Ara Tapu), west end of Avarua, Rarotonga. YWAM – Main Road (Ara Tapu), eastern end of Vaimaanga, Rarotonga. Arutanga – Sir Albert Henry Drive, Arutanga, Aitutaki.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© Lara Hotz - Cook Islands Tourism

40. Have a Splash in the Pool!

What is a family holiday without a splash in the pool? You’ll struggle to find accommodation on Rarotonga that doesn’t have a pool for the kids to splash around in, while a few accommodations with swimming pools can also be found in Aitutaki. Check out the listings in the 20 Best Family Resorts & Accommodations in the Cook Islands for just a few ideas.

Location: Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Take a look at the link above to see accommodations with a swimming pool.

40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 [2023]© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com

More Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids

See, we’ve got your back when it comes to things to do in the Cook Islands with kids. Want to know how you’re going to put all these activities together? You might want to check out our family-friendly itineraries:

Finally, anything we might have missed can be found in The Complete Travel Guide to the Cook Islands for Families. Plus, find the 30 Tips for Your Family Rarotonga & Cook Islands Vacation with Kids.

Author

Laura S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor-in-chief and co-founder of Cook Islands Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as the Cook Islands. She knows the islands inside out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Raro’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also the editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

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