40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids 👪 2025

Last Updated: 8 June, 2025

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

Dive into the mesmerising underwater world of Rarotonga with Raro Reef Sub, a unique semi-submersible vessel that’s perfect for families. This 1 hr 30 mins tour takes you to the outer reef, where you’ll spot large pelagic fish, turtles, sharks and possibly even whales.

You’ll also explore the fascinating RMS Maitai shipwreck. The tour operates from April to December/January, allowing you to experience Rarotonga’s underwater wonders in various seasons.

Additionally, a portion of your fare supports local conservation efforts. 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]

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 or Koka Lagoon Cruises 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, our top picks for family-friendly lagoon cruises are Teking Lagoon Cruises, The Vaka Cruise, and Bishop’s Cruises. Compare the lagoon cruises further in the 10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

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

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 2 km (1.2 mi), 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 👪 [2025]

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: End of Papua Road, Vaimaanga. Note that the dirt road all the way to the waterfall is in bad condition – suitable for 4WD or SUVs only. If you’re unsure, park at the SPCA car park and walk from there (6 mins walk). You may be asked for an entry fee (around NZ$2 for scooters and NZ$5 for cars/trucks).

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

The Discover Marine Wildlife & Eco Centre is Rarotonga‘s most family-friendly all-weather activity. This compact centre is brimming with fascinating displays, from rehabilitated seabirds and coconut crabs to intriguing whaling and shipwreck artefacts.

Explore the aquarium, featuring devilish stonefish, and learn about the formation of the Cook Islands. Don’t miss the Lickity Splitz Ice Cream Parlour for a sweet treat. The centre is open Monday to Friday: 9:30 am to 4 pm, Saturday: 10:30 am to 4 pm.

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.

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.

All come complete with a buffet of traditional umu kai, as well as plenty of options for fussy eaters.

Te Vara Nui accepts both cash and credit card payments at the table. Bar tabs can also be arranged with management approval by leaving a credit card at the bar. That said, we found it easiest to simply bring enough cash for drinks.

Location: Find the locations in the 10 Best Island Nights in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

7. 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 King Dryden’s Aqua Ventures and KiteSUP offer wonderful night SUP tours on Rarotonga; King Dryden’s is a more intimate experience with clear SUPs and kayaks, while KiteSUP takes you out to one of the lagoon islands. Both conclude with an awesome fire show.

Learn more about the SUP experiences in the 5 Best Paddleboard Tours & Hires in the Cook Islands and book your night SUP experience on King Dryden’s website.

Location: KiteSUP watersport centre and King Dryden’s Aqua Ventures is on Muri Beach (East side of Rarotonga).

8. 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 Islands, KiteSUP 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.

9. 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 participate in a ceremonial planting of a coconut tree, which is an interesting activity 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.

10. 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.

11. 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 Rarotonga, Edgewater 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.

12. 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.

13. 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 10 am to 6 pm. 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).

14. Go On an Adventure to Anatakitaki Caves

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Anatakitaki Cave, also known as the Kopeka Bird Caves, on the island of Atiu. This 2–3 hour adventure takes you through dense rainforest on a 30-40 minute hike each way, traversing uneven terrain and sharp rocks.

Once inside, marvel at stunning cave formations, swim in a cool water pool (if prepared), and experience the thrill of complete darkness as kopeka birds soar overhead using echolocation.

Tours run at 9 am or 2 pm and are suitable for able-bodied participants. Don’t forget to bring strong, non-slip footwear, mosquito repellent, water, and swimwear.

Transfers from your accommodation are included. Book your caving adventure with Anatakitaki Cave Tours for an experience you won’t soon forget!

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

15. 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 have 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.

16. 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.

17. 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, 1 hr 30 mins 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.

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

Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours offers an exciting way to explore Rarotonga on two wheels. Their cycling tours begin with a briefing, allowing guests to choose their preferred focus: food, history, art and culture, or a bit of everything. With bikes available for all ages, there’s no excuse not to join in on the fun!

Pedal past charming villages, learn about the island’s rich history along the ancient Ara Metua coral road, and enjoy tastings of local fruits discovered en route. The “Discover” tour caters to beginner cyclists, while the “Explore” tour is perfect for more experienced riders. Both tours conclude with a delicious local lunch.

For those preferring to explore on foot, Storytellers also offers the “Afternoon Stroll” walking tour. This leisurely walk provides a different perspective of the island’s beauty and culture.

Location: Rarotonga. Transfers are included with the tour.

19. 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 Café & 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.

20. 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 hr 30 mins to 2 hours 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.

21. Enjoy Tropical Treats at the Punanga Nui Market

The vibrant Punanga Nui Market is a feast for the senses, offering an authentic local experience every Saturday from 7 am to 12 pm. Kids will love trying tropical fruits and smoothies at the food stalls, while colourful pareu (sarongs) make perfect souvenirs.

Animal lovers can pet puppies near the SPCA shop. It’s also a great place to book tours and activities. For more markets to explore, check out the 5 Best Markets in the Cook Islands.

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

22. Visit the Te Ara Museum

One of the most impressive museums on Rarotonga, Te 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’re welcome to stay for light refreshments at the cafe and browse the 100% locally made gifts in the shop. Discover how the museum ranks among the 5 Best Museums in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands.

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

23. Try Some Treats at the Muri Night Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Muri Night Market, held on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday evenings from 5 pm in Muri Beach Village. This lively gathering of food trucks offers a delightful array of local and international cuisines, perfect for dinner and dessert.

You’ll find a whirlwind of tastes to satisfy your culinary cravings. Remember to bring cash, as the stalls don’t accept cards. For more foodie adventures, check out the 10 Best Foodie Experiences in the Cook Islands.

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

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 3 m (3.3 yards) 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.

25. Immerse in the Atiuan Culture with Punarea Cultural Tours

Discover the rich heritage of Atiu with Punarea Cultural Tours, a family-friendly activity led by Joshua and Daisy. The “Culture Tour” operates on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, starting at 3:30 pm for up to three hours.

You’ll delve into traditional practices passed down through generations, offering an authentic glimpse into island life. Kids will be fascinated by the history of Atiu’s fierce warriors, while hands-on experiences like tapa-cloth crafting and “Tuki Poi” demonstrations add an interactive element.

The tour culminates in helping to plate up a delicious umu, a feast that has been slowly cooked throughout your cultural journey. Discover more ways to experience the Cook Islands culture in the 10 Best Cultural Activities in the Cook Islands.

Location: Atiu. Transfers are included.

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

Embark on a captivating eco-adventure with Birdman George (George Mateariki) on Atiu. This iconic tour, ideal for families and nature enthusiasts alike, seamlessly blends history, ecology, and sightseeing with ample opportunities for bird-watching. As a key figure in local conservation, George customises each 4-6 hour journey to suit his guests’ interests.

You’ll traverse the island by vehicle and on foot, learning about Atiu’s unique flora, fauna, and their medicinal uses. Keep an eye out for the colourful kakerori and kura in this island sanctuary. The tour culminates at a picturesque beach where you’ll enjoy a tropical fruit platter.

For a special treat, join the Sunday tour featuring a full umu meal prepared by George’s family and served beachside. Alternatively, book a spot at “Birdman George’s beach restaurant” on Sundays for a unique dining experience (self-transport required). Learn more about planning your trip to Atiu in The Complete Travel Guide to Atiu for Families.

Location: Atiu. Transfers are included.

27. Feed the Fish in Mangaia

On two opposite ends of the island of Mangaia, you can find platforms where you can feed the fish! Atuokoro Landing, located in the north, is a plateau at sea level with surrounding pools of fish. Alternatively, Vai Nato in the south features a raised vantage point above the pools, allowing you to feed the fish from above.

See more experiences you can have as a family in the 10 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.

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, which 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.

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 5 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.

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 1.6 km (1 mi) south of Babe’s Store in Oneroa.

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 500 m (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.

32. Swing on a Giant Banyan Tree on Mauke

Covering an area of 4,000 m² (43,000 ft²), 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 can take a quick dip.

You’ll then come across the tangled roots hanging from above and crawling across the ground that indicate 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 500 m (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.

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 Francisco. 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 2 km (1.2 mi) to the shipwreck.

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

Raro Safari Tours offers a unique tiki tour of Rarotonga in their wacky safari Land Rovers topped with Cook Islands flags and coconuts. This exciting excursion takes you literally up mountain peaks on the inland roads of Rarotonga. With a great emphasis on history and culture, you’ll explore both the interior and the outer coastal road of the island.

The tour offers an excellent opportunity to discover Rarotonga’s rich heritage and natural beauty. While it might not be every family member’s cup of tea, the off-roading adventure certainly offers a thrilling experience for those seeking something out of the ordinary.

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. Operates Monday to Friday.

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 café, 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!

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 islands 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.

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 it 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.

38. Get a Rarotonga Family Photoshoot

Capture your family’s Rarotonga memories with a professional photoshoot by Steele from Experience Cook Islands. From sun-soaked beaches to lush rainforests, Steele offers expert guidance on poses, lighting, and locations.

Enjoy a relaxed session where your true essence shines through, resulting in stunning portraits that capture the spirit of Rarotonga and the beauty of your family. It’s a creative journey that will provide treasured memories for a lifetime.

Location: Refer to the link above to view the meeting and pickup points.

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. 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.

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.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across the Cook Islands and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Cook Islands Tourism Corporation (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
Cook Islands Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Finance & Economic Management (Border restrictions advice - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Agriculture (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
Cook Islands Statistics Office (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Transport (Transport operators and licenses - Updated [2025])
Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for the Cook Islands - Updated [2025])
Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for the Cook Islands - Updated [2025])

At Cook Islands Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About the 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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40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids