The Best Family Activities on Atiu
Certainly a destination for adventurous families, Atiu offers amazing pristine beaches and wonderful culture and eco-tours. The rocky makatea (coral uplift) is the terrain of many of the island’s walks, so you can forget about bringing the stroller.
Atiu is more suited for families with kids who can get around on their own and have a sense of adventure. So, make your Atiu family bucket list with these things to do on Atiu with kids!
And don’t leave without seeking more helpful advice from The Complete Travel Guide to Atiu for Families. If you need a place to stay, check out Where to Stay on Atiu: The Best Atiu Accommodations.
Table of Contents
1. Go on an Adventure to Anatakitaki Caves
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Anatakitaki Cave, also known as the Kopeka Bird Caves. This 2-3 hour adventure takes you through dense forest on a 30-40 minute hike each way, traversing uneven terrain and sharp rocks.
Inside the cave, you’ll marvel at stunning formations, have the chance to swim in a cool water pool (if prepared), and experience complete darkness as kopeka birds soar overhead using sonar.
Tours run at 9 am or 2 pm and are suitable for able-bodied participants. Don’t forget strong, non-slip footwear, mosquito repellent, water, and swimwear.
It’s a must-see attraction on Atiu that combines natural wonders with the thrill of exploration. Book your caving adventure with Anatakitaki Cave Tours for an experience you won’t forget!
Location: East side of Atiu. Transfers are included in the tour mentioned.
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com2. Immerse in the Atiuan Culture with Punarea Cultural Tours
Punarea Cultural Tours on Atiu offers an authentic glimpse into island life, suitable for all ages. Led by Joshua and Daisy, the main “Culture Tour” operates on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, starting at 3:30 pm and lasting up to three hours.
You’ll explore traditional practices passed down through generations, immersing yourself in the rich history and craftsmanship of Atiu.
From tapa-cloth making to “Tuki Poi” demonstrations, this hands-on tour provides a unique perspective on Atiuan culture.
Don’t miss the chance to help prepare the umu, a traditional cooking method that’ll tantalise your taste buds!
Location: Transfers are included.
© Daniel Fisher - Cook Islands Tourism3. Meet George (and the Birds) on an Eco-Tour
Join Birdman George (George Mateariki) on his iconic eco-tour of Atiu, perfect for nature lovers and families alike. As a key figure in local conservation, George customises each 4 to 6-hour adventure based on your interests, focusing on the island’s rich history, ecology, and birdlife.
You’ll traverse historic trails, visit significant sites, and learn about the medicinal uses of Atiuan plants. Keep an eye out for the colourful kura and rare kakerori in this island sanctuary.
The tour culminates at a picturesque beach where you’ll enjoy either a tropical fruit platter or, on Sundays, a full umu meal prepared by George’s family. For a unique dining experience, book a spot at “Birdman George’s beach restaurant” on Sundays (self-transport required).
See more tours like this in the 5 Best Tours in Atiu.
Location: Transfers are included.
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com4. Enjoy a Sunrise Breakfast or Sunset Dinner by the Beach
Create unforgettable family memories with a Sunrise Breakfast and Sunset Dinner experience on Atiu’s stunning coastline. Start your day as a family, watching the sun paint the sky from one of the island’s prime coastal spots.
You’ll be treated to a beautifully set table with fresh fruit, fluffy pancakes, and Atiu’s renowned coffee – a perfect way for the whole family to greet the day together! The tour is hosted by two friendly Atiuans: Vito and Lucy.
For a magical evening the kids won’t forget, join Vito for a “Sunset Dinner” by the beach. Here, you’ll savour local delicacies as a family, including food cooked in the traditional umu.
Both experiences offer a unique way for families to connect with Atiu’s natural beauty and culinary traditions. Accommodation transfers are included, allowing you to relax and focus on creating memories with your loved ones against the stunning backdrop.
Location: Best beaches for sunrise and sunset, locations vary, Atiu. To book your family-friendly Sunrise Breakfast experience, visit Sunrise Breakfast with Vito.
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com5. Experience Traditional Island Cooking from Ocean to Table
Step into the daily rhythms of island life with Living Like an Atiuan Culture Tour, a warm and personal cultural experience on Atiu.
This hands-on afternoon of fishing, food and storytelling is perfect for families looking to immerse themselves in local traditions.
Try your hand at authentic fishing techniques on a remote beach, then cook your catch using traditional methods. You’ll also learn the art of plate weaving and enjoy a casual chat about island customs with your friendly hosts.
Led by young local entrepreneurs, this true off-the-beaten-path adventure offers a unique glimpse into the traditions that still shape everyday life in this peaceful corner of the Cook Islands.
It’s an enriching activity that both adults and kids will love, providing a genuine taste of Atiuan culture.
Location: Taunganui Harbour, Atiu, southern group of the Cook Islands. Pick-up and drop-off from your Atiu accommodation included.
© Sunrise Breakfast with Vito6. Enjoy Some Pool Time at Atiu Villas
Sometimes, you just need time to unwind. Those staying at Atiu Villas have access to an outdoor swimming pool among the tropical gardens. Kids love having a splash here, while the tennis court and rope swings hidden among the grounds provide more fun while you’re hanging out at your accommodation.
Learn more about Atiu Villas in our guide, Where to Stay on Atiu: The Best Atiu Accommodations.
Location: Atiu Villas, Areora, on the road between the villages and Matai Landing.
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com7. Explore the Beaches!
At only 27 km² (17 mi²), Atiu is so easy to explore! Hit the coastal road and discover the quaint Oravaru and Taungaroro beaches along the west side of the island, while Oneroa Beach on the east side is also worth visiting.
The best place for older kids to swim is in the relatively deep waters of Taunganui Harbour, while little ones will enjoy paddling on the reef at Taungaroro – ensure that you get in the water with little ones and keep safe, as the currents are a lot stronger than on Rarotonga and Aitutaki.
Check out the 10 Best Beaches on Atiu for more information about each beach and more.
Location: Check out the link above for each beach location. Otherwise, they are well signposted along the coastal road of Atiu.
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com8. Witness History at the SV Edna Shipwreck Site
Step back in time and spark your kids’ imaginations at the SV Edna Shipwreck. This fascinating attraction offers a glimpse into maritime history that’s sure to captivate visitors of all ages. The SV Edna, originally owned by a Norwegian company and later re-registered under the Cook Islands flag, met its dramatic end in November 1985 during a sudden squall.
Today, the wreck lies scattered across the reef, with its bow wedged into a ravine and its stern submerged in shallow waters. It’s an excellent spot for families, as children can let their imaginations run wild, picturing the ship’s final moments and its journey through the South Pacific.
The site offers a unique opportunity to experience the power of nature and the enduring legacy of maritime exploration.
Location: Southern end of Taunganui Harbour, northwest coast of Atiu.
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.comMore Things to Do on Atiu with Kids
That’s it for our list of the best things to do on Atiu with kids. Families with teens have a little more they could enjoy, as listed in the following guides:
Finally, if there’s any part of the Cook Islands excursion that you haven’t planned, you’re likely to find all the advice you need in The Complete Travel Guide to the Cook Islands for Families and 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])
- Atiu Tourism Industry Council (Regional tourism website)
- Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
- Cook Islands Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (Visa and immigration advice - 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])
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